Abstract: Background: Bryophytes, phylogenetically placed between the algae and the vascular plants, are divided into three classes viz. Liverworts, Hornworts and Mosses. This small, slow-growing group of plants is often associated with disturbed habitat, barren rock surface and extreme climatic condition. Traditional system of medicine throughout the world has been utilizing the small group of plants to treat various ailments. Recent pharmacological investigations have proven that the active principles present in the group are quite unique and having tremendous therapeutic potential. Compounds present in bryophytes have been investigated for antiinflamatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antivenomous and cytotoxic activity. Bryophytes possess strong antioxidative enzymatic machinery which helps them to cope up with extreme climates and stresses. Results: The present review deals with the literature covering the potential of bryophytes as antioxidative agent, pharmacological investigations of antioxidants and induction of antioxidative system due to different kinds of stress viz. heavy metals, desiccation, radiation, salt etc. A number of antioxidative enzymes were found to be activated due to stress response. Some bryophytes were found to hyperaccumulate metals, some were able to sequester the toxic metal ions. These bryophytes are used as biomonitoring agents. Conclusions: In the present study the authors have found several reports of antioxidative properties found in liverworts and mosses. Herbs have already been used as a potent source of antioxidant in cosmetic and food supplement industry. Bryophytes can serve as a natural source of antioxidants which can be exploited in medicine and cosmetics. Although, the clinical efficacy of the active principles are subjected to further investigation, the therapeutic potential of this small plant group should not be ignored.