Phytochemical Families

What They Do

Where They're Found

Terpenes

Carotenes, limonoids, saponins

Activate body's protective enzymes, protect eyes, act as antioxidants, modify hormones, help block cholesterol absorption, protect cellular differentiation

Green, red and yellow vegetables and fruits; grains; legumes; nuts; seeds; herbs such as ginseng, chamomile, gotu kola

Organosulfur compounds

Indol-3-carbinol, thiosulfonates, isothiocyanates

Boost cancer-fighting enzymes, block mutagenesis, inhibit cholesterol synthesis, may lower blood pressure

Cruciferous vegetables; mustard family; onion family

Phenols

Polyphenols, anthocyanidins, catechins, isoflavones, tannins

Protect heart and vascular system, protect against colon cancer, modify hormone response, prevent dental caries

Berries, grapes, red wine, green leafy vegetables, soy foods, green tea, herbs

Organic acids, Polysaccharides

Lactones, celluloses, arabinogalactans, pectins, fructans, glucans

Block nitrosamine effects, promote growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria, modulate immune system, may help prevent colon cancer

Fruit, mushrooms, yeast, herbs, spices

Lipids (also zoochemicals)

Isoprenoids, oils, fatty acids, phytosterols

Reduce platelet aggregation, blood clotting, inflammation, nervous system disorders; balance hormones; modify autoimmune conditions

Dark-green leafy vegetables, nuts, soy oil, wheat germ, herbs, animal foods