Table 2.

Advantages and disadvantages of using natural compounds as modulators of signaling pathways.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Natural compounds have specific targets, required for the inhibition of signaling pathways, which have cross-reactive steps Natural compounds can work synergistically without compromising the effect of other codrugs Natural compounds exhibit less toxicity and easy metabolism and clearance from the body Fewer side effects are observed with natural compounds, due to specific targets Being produced naturally, these compounds exhibit more chemical and physical stability Structural diversity and complexity Natural compounds offer an ease of usage as oral drugs, which is a preferred method for drug administration

Natural compounds are usually less potent and thus, are required in larger quantities It is difficult to screen and identify active components in pure form from the extract Due to the complexity of nature, natural compound structures can be of high molecular weight, difficult to solubilize, degrade faster, and are difficult to characterize In most cases, the functional mechanisms are unknown There is limited availability of source material Despite verified resources, there is an issue of dereplication and rediscovery of the same compounds, also leading to patenting issues Change in properties of active compounds from plants grown in different soil and environmental conditions