Anthology of historical development and some research progress glimpses on phytochemical antioxidants phenomenon

The inevitability of applications of antioxidants in protection of human and preservation of dormant living systems such as food, drugs, cosmetics and other allied chemicals against internal and external stresses have made antioxidants an area of active research world over. Study impact of antioxidant research has advanced from topic level to subject level as revealed by the volume of antioxidants research publications. Each cardinal research interest is engaged in scientific exploration with view to gain mechanistic understanding and consequently raise the bar of knowledge in order to maximise exploitation of antioxidants benefits. The cardinal research interest is so diverse and the volume of publications is so enormous and profusely dispersed. Therefore, it is academically worthwhile to pool some of the research developments into a single piece which could offer accessibility to array of study briefs that appeared in many journals which could motivate readership to seek further knowledge on specific area of antioxidant research interest. In this review, glimpses of developments on antioxidant research that transverse research cardinal perspectives such as phytochemical antioxidant genesis, highlights mechanism of action. Modern methods of extraction and evaluation techniques, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) and rational design strategy for antioxidants were reviewed. The research future of antioxidants of phytochemical origin was projected. These academic collections should motivate readership to seek further knowledge for product research and development of antioxidants of phytochemical origin and natural product analogues.