natural product

In scientific and pharmacological contexts, this term refers specifically to secondary metabolites—complex molecules like alkaloids or terpenes—that serve a biological function for the organism but are harvested by humans for drug discovery. It carries a technical, clinical connotation associated with laboratory isolation and structural analysis.

In a commercial or consumer context, the term is used more broadly to describe goods that are organic or minimally processed. Here, it functions as a marketing descriptor to imply purity, health, and an absence of synthetic additives, often appearing on labels for skincare or dietary supplements.