Harnessing the Therapeutic Potential of Plant-Derived Natural Products in Neurological Disorders

Abstract

Neurological disorders represent a significant healthcare burden globally, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. Plant-derived natural products have garnered increasing attention for their potential in managing neurological disorders due to their diverse chemical structures and pharmacological activities. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic potential of plant-derived natural products in neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and depression. It discusses the bioactive compounds isolated from various plant sources, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and polyphenols, elucidating their mechanisms of action and neuroprotective effects. Furthermore, the review highlights the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of plant-derived natural products in mitigating neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, and neurodegeneration. Additionally, it explores the synergistic interactions between natural products and conventional neuropharmacological agents, offering insights into combination therapies for enhanced therapeutic outcomes. Challenges associated with the standardization, formulation, and bioavailability of plant-derived natural products are also addressed, along with future perspectives on their development as potential neurotherapeutics. Overall, this review underscores the promise of plantderived natural products as valuable sources of novel drug candidates for the management of neurological disorders, providing a roadmap for future research and clinical translation.