A critical review on pharmacological properties of marine macroalgae

Macroalgae are considered as one of the breath-giving organisms in the marine environment. Macroalgae are divided into three divisions based on their pigmentation as Chlorophyta, Rhodophyta, and Phaeophyta. Macroalgae encompass several priceless beneficial and profitable components amid other organisms in the ocean, which are considered as bioactive compounds. Algal products such as agar, carrageenan, fucoidan, ulvan, algin, and other bioactive substances are widely employed in the food, cosmetic, paper, pharmaceutical, and other sectors. Macroalgae play a key role in providing nourishment for earthlings. This review tends to explain the uses of certain secondary metabolites (bioactive substances) in the pharmacological aspects, with emphasis on antimicrobial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiprotozoal, antiviral, and antioxidant activities.

Automated summary

Macroalgae, an important organism in the marine environment, contain valuable components which are widely used in various industries. This review focuses on the pharmacological uses of certain secondary metabolites in macroalgae, including antimicrobial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiprotozoal, antiviral, and antioxidant activities.