A glycoside is a type of organic compound that consists of a carbohydrate (sugar) molecule linked to an essential non-carbohydrate group, such as an amino acid or a phenol. The carbohydrate part of the glycoside forms a bond with the non-carbohydrate group through a glycosidic linkage, which is a type of chemical bond that involves the exchange of a hydroxyl group (OH) from the sugar molecule and an atom or group from the non-carbohydrate part. Glycosides are commonly found in nature, where they often serve as defense mechanisms for plants against herbivores or as toxic substances that deter predators. In some cases, glycosides can be converted into active drugs through a process called glycosylation.