Alkaloids are a group of naturally occurring organic compounds that contain basic nitrogen atoms. They are produced by a wide variety of organisms, including plants, fungi, and animals. Alkaloids are known for their diverse range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, and analgesic properties. They are commonly used in medicine and pharmacology as pharmaceutical drugs. Alkaloids are also found in many common foods and beverages, such as caffeine in coffee and nicotine in tobacco.