Role of phytochemicals in management of schizophrenia

Abstract

Bioactive substances derived from plants, created by them for defense, are known as phytochemicals. Alkaloids, glycosides, polyphenols, terpenes and terpenoids, phytosterols, cannabinoids and carotenoids are the different categories of phytochemicals. Schizophrenia is associated with changes in the structure of the brain, decrease of dendritic spines from pyramidal neurons in the cortex, loss of gray matter and enlarged ventricles. Hallucinations, delusions, disorganized behavior and amotivation are some symptoms of schizophrenia. Phytochemicals are a key component of the management of schizophrenia. Alkaloids can operate as cholinergic agonists on muscarinic receptors and improve memory deficits. Glycosides target ErbB signaling, inhibit D3/D4 receptors and change dopamine and serotonin metabolism. Because of their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, polyphenols display neuroprotective and anti-schizophrenic activity. Terpenes and terpenoids act on the glutamate and dopamine pathways and inhibit glycinergic action. Cannabinoids have an anti-schizophrenic effect plus boost GABAergic activity and prevent serotonin uptake. Phytosterols have antipsychotic potential by blocking ketamine-induced biochemical, histological and behavioral changes. Because they regulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), carotenoids show significant potential for treating a variety of central nervous system problems. They are also an excellent antipsychotic medication.