Efficacy of Phytochemicals and Natural Products in the Management/Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Abstract

Neurodegenerative illnesses are disorders that cause considerable loss of neurons, both structurally and functionally, and affect millions of people globally. These disorders include Parkinson's disease, which is characterized by the loss of dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons; Huntington's disease, characterized by the loss of spiny, medium-sized striatal neurons; and Alzheimer's disease (AD), characterized by cerebral atrophy. As a result of current therapeutic procedures and the progressive nature of these diseases, a number of side effects have emerged, prompting patients to seek alternative treatment. The concept of neuroprotection concerns the administration of a specific agent, which should reverse some of the damage or prevent further adverse changes associated with these disorders. The involvement of medicinal plants and natural products in such situations has proven advantageous due to their manifestation through many cellular and molecular pathways. This chapter focuses on role of phytochemicals and natural products on major pathological factors in NDs.