How are secondary metabolites of plants useful to us ?
A. i) Secondary metabolites are which do not required for normal growth. Eg. Alkaloids, Tannins, Resins, Gums and Latex etc.
ii) Alkaloids like Quinine, Reserpine, Morphine and Scopolamine are useful as medicines for different problems.
iii) Nicotine, Pyrethroids, Turmeric and Nimbin are useful as Insecticides.
iv) Tannins are useful in tanning leather and preparation of medicines.
v) Resins are used in varnishes. .
vi) Gums are used as adhesives and binding agents and preparation of food, medicines.
vii) Latex is used in preparation of rubber and biodiesel.