Alzheimer\'s disease and traditional medicinal plants: A review

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by severe memory loss that affects one's ability to operate in social and professional contexts. More than 20 million individuals worldwide are affected by it, making it the most prevalent type of dementia. An elusive memory loss, corresponding functional deterioration, and behavioral abnormalities are hallmarks of AD. AD is the most common cause of disability in the elderly and patients may survive for more than ten years after receiving their diagnosis. From its lowest level at ages 65 to 70 to rates that may approach 6 percent for those over the age of 85, the incidence of AD ranges from 1 to 4 percent of the population per year. Over a hundred novel products are currently undergoing clinical trials thanks to ayurvedic medicinal plants, which have shown to be the most fruitful source of leads or medication development. Indeed, the use of several Ayurvedic medicinal plants and their ingredients for treating Alzheimer's disease has been detailed in a number of scientific research. Phytochemical analyses of the various plant parts have revealed the presence of numerous valuable compounds, including lignans, flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols, and alkaloids, that exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-amyloidogenic, anticholinesterase, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant effects. However, the precise mechanism of their action is still unclear. This study compiles studies on several medicinal plants that have demonstrated potential for correcting the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. The report provides sufficient baseline data that could be used in drug discovery campaigns and development processes, thereby providing new functional leads for Alzheimer's disease. It does this by summarizing information regarding the phytochemistry, biological, and cellular activities, as well as the clinical applications, of these various plants.