Laticifers have been utilized as paradigms to enhance comprehension of specific facets of plant ecology and evolution. From the beginning of seedling growth, autonomous laticifer networks are formed throughout the plant structure, extending across all tissues and organs. The vast majority of identified products resulting from laticifer chemistry and metabolism are linked to plant defense. The latex, which is the fluid contained within laticifers, is maintained under pressure and has evolved to serve as a defense mechanism against both aggressors and invaders, irrespective of their capabilities or tactics. Remarkably, the latex composition varies among different species. The current goal is to understand the specific functions of various latex components in combating plant enemies. Therefore, the study of latex's chemical composition and proteome plays a critical role in advancing our understanding about plant defense mechanisms. Here, we will discuss some of these aspects. •Latex is constitutively present in all green parts of laticifer plants.•Latex-bearing plants have been studied as models for understanding plant defense.•The chemical composition of each latex fluid is unique.•Peptidases and chitinases are the most common constitutive proteins in latex.•Latex fluids also contain different types of toxic secondary metabolites.