This editorial summarizes the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants in both physiological and pathological contexts. ROS, including superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, and hydrogen peroxide, are involved in cellular signaling and metabolism but can cause oxidative stress under pathological conditions. Antioxidants, such as glutathione, vitamins, and enzymes like SOD and catalase, help neutralize ROS and maintain redox balance. However, excessive antioxidant use can have pro-oxidant effects, leading to oxidative stress and adverse outcomes. The article highlights the dual role of ROS and antioxidants, emphasizing their importance in health and disease. Antioxidants are beneficial in preventing chronic diseases, protecting against aging, improving immune function, and reducing oxidative stress in cardiovascular and respiratory disorders. They also play a role in eye and brain health, skin protection, and cancer prevention. However, excessive antioxidant intake can interfere with immune function, increase cancer risk, and disrupt cellular signaling pathways. The editorial discusses the complexities of antioxidant action, noting that their effects depend on the cellular compartment, the type of ROS, and the pathophysiological context. Mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants show promise in certain conditions but can have adverse effects in others. The balance between ROS and antioxidants is crucial for maintaining cellular health, and further research is needed to fully understand their roles in both health and disease.This editorial summarizes the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants in both physiological and pathological contexts. ROS, including superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, and hydrogen peroxide, are involved in cellular signaling and metabolism but can cause oxidative stress under pathological conditions. Antioxidants, such as glutathione, vitamins, and enzymes like SOD and catalase, help neutralize ROS and maintain redox balance. However, excessive antioxidant use can have pro-oxidant effects, leading to oxidative stress and adverse outcomes. The article highlights the dual role of ROS and antioxidants, emphasizing their importance in health and disease. Antioxidants are beneficial in preventing chronic diseases, protecting against aging, improving immune function, and reducing oxidative stress in cardiovascular and respiratory disorders. They also play a role in eye and brain health, skin protection, and cancer prevention. However, excessive antioxidant intake can interfere with immune function, increase cancer risk, and disrupt cellular signaling pathways. The editorial discusses the complexities of antioxidant action, noting that their effects depend on the cellular compartment, the type of ROS, and the pathophysiological context. Mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants show promise in certain conditions but can have adverse effects in others. The balance between ROS and antioxidants is crucial for maintaining cellular health, and further research is needed to fully understand their roles in both health and disease.