Question

Many secondary metabolites of plants have medicinal properties. It is their misuse that creates problems. Justify the statement with an example.

Answer 1

Definition

Secondary metabolites are certain molecules produced by plants which do not play a major role in their vital life processes such as growth, development and reproduction. However, these have secondary functions as they protect the plants from pests and provide resistance against stress.

Medicinal uses

They also have many medicinal uses:

• Morphine is a highly effective sedative and painkiller which is administered to patients who have undergone surgery.
• Heroin is used as analgesics (relieves pain).
• Cinchona is used as an antimalarial drug.
• Plant parts having hallucinogenic properties have been utilised since long is folk-medicine, rituals and religious ceremonies all over the world.

Problems related to misuse

When these compounds are consumed for purposes other than for their medicinal value, it is drug abuse.

• Drugs like opium, heroin, LSD etc. are used by the abusers as they make a person relax, improves their strength, free from pain, nausea, and anxiety.
• Morphine is used by abusers to suppress brain function and produce temporary euphoria.

Continuous usage leads to vomiting, nausea and constipation. The addicts also share their needles and the chances of acquiring AIDS also increases.
Hence, misuse leads to various problems.