phytochemical

American  

[fahy-tuh-kem-i-kuhl] / ˌfaɪ təˈkɛm ɪ kəl /

noun

1. Also called phytonutrient.  any of various bioactive chemical compounds found in plants, as antioxidants, considered to be beneficial to human health.

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adjective

1. of or relating to phytochemistry or phytochemicals.

phytochemical British  

/ ˌfaɪtəʊˈkɛmɪkəl /

adjective

1. of or relating to phytochemistry or phytochemicals

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noun

1. a chemical that occurrs naturally in a plant

phytochemical Scientific  

/ fī′tō-kĕm′ĭ-kəl /

1. A plant-derived chemical that is not considered an essential nutrient in the human diet but is believed to have beneficial health effects.

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Other Word Forms

• phytochemically adverb

Etymology

Origin of phytochemical

First recorded in 1845–50; phyto- ( def. ) + chemical ( def. )

Example Sentences

Importantly, this natural oil is known for its health benefits and medicinal applications from antibacterial to anticancer because of its phytochemical constituents.

From Science Daily • Feb. 13, 2024

Cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary, sage and other herbs and spices enhance the flavor of holiday meals, but they’re also phytochemical powerhouses.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 13, 2023

The phytochemical that gives cinnamon its distinctive smell and its rich woody flavor is the aromatic compound cinnamaldehyde.

From Salon • Jun. 20, 2023

"Broccoli sprouts release a phytochemical called sulforaphane which can help heal the gut, reduce inflammation, and could even help fight cancer by enhancing antioxidant activities," says Kenney.

From Fox News • Feb. 6, 2022

Many nuts, such as pecans and walnuts, also contain a phytochemical called ellagic acid.

From Time Magazine Archive