Isolation and chemistry of plant pigments

Purpose This paper aims to critically review the isolation and chemistry of plant pigments. Design/methodology/approach A literature survey from 1974 to 2022 was carried out and studied thoroughly. The authors reviewed literature in various areas such as isolation methods and catalytic properties of pigments. Findings With vast growing research in the field of catalytic activities of various pigments like chlorophyll, anthocyanin and flavonoids, there is still scope for further research for the pigments such as Lycopene, carotenoids and xanthophyll as there has not been any significant work in this area. Research limitations/implications Plant pigments may be used as an ecofriendly catalyst for chemical reactions. Practical implications One can get the direction of pigment research. Social implications Plant pigments are natural and ecofriendly catalyst which can reduce the pollution. Originality/value This is an original work. This paper precisely depicts the advantages as well as disadvantages of the isolation techniques of pigments. This study also presents the chemistry of plant pigments. Graphical abstract