Tumor metabolic reprogramming is one of the most critical scientific questions in cancer research which is characterized by tumor cells supporting malignant proliferation and metastasis by remodeling themselves and microenvironmental metabolic pathways. In recent years the potential role of plant compounds for tumor metabolism intervention have been unraveled due to their diverse biological activities and multi-targeting ability. Recent studies have shown that plant compounds is beneficial in the metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells by regulating the activity of critical metabolic enzymes inhibiting aberrant signaling pathways remodeling tumor microenvironment thereby inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. In this paper we systematically reviewed the latest research of plant compounds in tumor metabolic regulation focusing on their effects on core metabolic pathways such as glycolysis oxidative phosphorylation lipid metabolism amino acid metabolism and analyzed their mechanism of action in tumor microenvironment. We also summarized current challenges for the clinical translation of plant compounds including limited delivery strategies complexed mechanisms etc. Basing on multi - omics technology nano - delivery as well as other cutting - edge technologies we are looking forward to the clinical application of plant compounds in cancer prevention and treatment in the future.