Abstract
Phytochemicals from plants are known for their antiseptics, bactericidal, virucidal and fungicidal, and medicinal properties and their fragrance, which find uses in preservation of foods and locally anaesthetic remedies. They include alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, glycosides, phenols amongst others. There are over 50, 000 species of medicinal plants reported by WHO and many of these plants are still underutilized. Among the potential medicinal plant is Mentha longifolia which is found to be loaded with several bioactive compounds which performs a wide range of activities including; antioxidant, antiviral, antifungal, antimicrobial, immune-stimulatory, hepato-protective and anti-helminthic. These phytochemicals are safe, eco-friendly and effective when fed to animals and could be used as potential alternative to antibiotics. Exploring the potentials in Mentha longifolia will further promote food safety and full utilization of the plant.