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The classification of plant extracts is determined by their active components, which can be broadly categorized into several types: 1. Alkaloids, 2. Glycosides, 3. Flavonoids, 4. Organic acids, 5. Polysaccharides, 6. Volatile oils. This article will provide you with information on the classification of plant extracts.

I. Alkaloids

Alkaloids, also known as plant alkaloids, are nitrogen-containing organic compounds that are basic in nature and often exhibit toxicity or biological activity. Their chemical properties include: most are basic, almost all are insoluble in water and alcohol, but dissolve easily in organic solvents; the extracts are colorless and have a bitter taste. Some common extracts include:

1. Camptotheca (Camptothecin extract), which has a strong cytotoxic effect on tumor cells.

2. Catharanthus (Vincristine extract), which has a certain effect on leukemia and cancer with relatively low toxicity.

3. Reserpine from Rauwolfia, which has a blood pressure-lowering effect and a relatively mild pharmacological action.

II. Flavonoid Extracts

Flavonoids are quite abundant, found in various parts of many plants, with statistics showing that about 22% of plants contain flavonoid compounds, making them a rich resource. Flavonoids have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, detoxifying, and anti-cancer effects. Some common flavonoid extracts include:

1. Soybean isoflavones: These have health benefits, especially for women, and are more effective for menopausal women.

2. Anthocyanins: Anthocyanins have many effects, such as antioxidant properties, effective prevention of aging, protection of the cardiovascular system, and skin whitening. Therefore, there are many products derived from anthocyanins on the market, such as anthocyanin wine, anthocyanin solid drinks, purple sweet potato anthocyanins, and a series of other products.

3. Ginkgo biloba extract: This has antioxidant properties and can scavenge free radicals.

III. Glycoside Compounds Extracts

Glycoside compounds extracts are substances where sugars are combined with phenols or flavonoids; their chemical properties include being colorless and odorless, having a bitter taste, and being acidic or neutral; they can dissolve in water and ethanol. Some common glycoside compounds extracts include:

1. Amygdalin: Amygdalin has an effect on relieving cough and phlegm, and moistening the intestines and promoting bowel movements.

2. Radish mustard oil: Radish mustard oil has anti-cancer properties, but should not be consumed in excess as it can cause mustard oil poisoning, leading to goiter and even death.

IV. Organic Acids

Organic acid compounds can replace antibiotics and are used as preservatives in feed; they can also regulate the intestinal fungal flora. Some common organic acids include:

1. Chlorogenic acid: Chlorogenic acid has antiviral and antioxidant properties.

2. Caffeic acid: Like chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid has antibacterial properties, and it also has UV protection effects, but it has been classified as a carcinogen in China.

3. Tartaric acid: Tartaric acid is extracted from grapes or rambutan and is mainly used as an additive in beverages due to its acidic properties.

V. Polysaccharides

Polysaccharide compounds are substances made up of more than 10 monosaccharides, with properties that include anti-cancer and enhancing immunity; some common polysaccharide extracts include:

1. Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide: This has the effects of boosting energy, replenishing deficiencies, strengthening the body, and prolonging life.

2. Shiitake mushroom polysaccharide: This has the effects of treating wind and breaking blood, nourishing the stomach and spleen.

3. Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide: This has a good therapeutic effect on chronic gastritis and can also enhance the body's immunity.

4. Cordyceps sinensis polysaccharide: This is a physiologically active substance that can increase white blood cell counts, enhance immunity, and the body's self-repair capabilities.

VI. Volatile Oils

Volatile oil extracts have the physical property of volatility and can be distilled out with steam. Most volatile oil extracts have a certain fragrance and are often used as essential oils; some common volatile oil extracts include.