In biological systems, the normal processes of oxidation produce highly reactive free radicals. These can readily react with and damage other molecules, including DNA in cell nuclei or mitochondria. In some cases the body uses free radicals to destroy foreign or unwanted objects, such as in an infection or cancer. However, in the wrong place, the body's own cells may become damaged. Antioxidants decrease the damage done to cells by reducing oxidants before they can damage the cell.

Free radicals are believed to play a role in more than sixty different health conditions, including the aging process, cancer and arteriosclerosis. Reducing exposure to free radicals and increasing intake of antioxidant nutrients has the potential to reduce the risk of free radical related health problems.

Many herbs are mentioned in Ayurvedic texts as powerful antioxidants. Below listed is a range of safe herbal alternatives from India that can serve as excellent antioxidants.

Asparagus racemosus   Psoralea corylifolia

Curcuma longa   Punica granatum

Embellica officinalis   Rubia cordifolia

Hemidemus indicus   Withania somnifera