What therapeutic property do phenolic compounds generally exhibit?

Phenolic compounds are widely recognized for their antioxidant properties. This means they have the ability to neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress in the body, leading to cellular damage and various diseases. The structure of phenolic compounds, which typically includes a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to an aromatic hydrocarbon ring, facilitates their reactivity with free radicals, thereby protecting the body from oxidative damage.

In many studies, phenolic compounds derived from plants have demonstrated their effectiveness in improving health by mitigating oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. These properties are a significant reason why phenolic-rich foods and supplements are often considered beneficial in promoting overall health and well-being.

While phenolic compounds may also exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties to varying degrees, their primary and most studied therapeutic effect remains their capacity as antioxidants, making the recognition of option B as the correct answer a solid understanding of their role in health and medicine.