Natural product chemistry is concerned with substances synthesized in metabolic reactions in living things, biosynthesis. It has been traditionally divided into primary metabolism, the chemistry of essential life processes, and secondary metabolism, the study of non-essential, species-specific metabolites. The two, now known to be closely interrelated, are both covered in this text. Each chapter is devoted to a specific type or class of metabolite. "Natural Products" examines the chemical compounds of these substances, how they interact and identifies their possible roles as components in pharmaceuticals, such as morphine, quinine and opium. Key features: Focuses on the products of both primary and secondary metabolism, providing a broader coverage for the student; approaches natural products from a chemical standpoint but embraces the biological interrelationships; focuses more on synthesis than biosynthesis, the approach most chemists require.