Integrative Phytotherapy for Neurodegenerative Disorders: Bridging Traditional Botanicals, Bioactive Compounds, and Nanotechnology.

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) such as Alzheimer's, Parkinsons etc., are progressive and debilitating conditions that have little therapeutic intervention. Existing pharmacological interventions mainly provide symptomatic relief and do not respond to the pathophysiology of these diseases, which is complex and multifactorial and includes oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and protein misfolding. The synthesis of emerging evidence regarding the neuroprotective efficacy of phytotherapy is presented in this review, and the focus is on such traditional medicinal plants as Bacopa monnieri, Withania somnifera, and Centella asiatica. These botanicals have multi-target actions via bioactive compounds, such as bacosides, withanolides, and curcuminoids, that modulate cholinergic function and counteract the aggregation of amyloid beta residues, as well as support the integrity of mitochondria. The advanced delivery systems, like nano-formulations, are also highlighted in the review to improve the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Along with pharmacological processes, integrative approaches that involve the use of phytotherapy, along with lifestyle changes and conventional medicine, are considered. Finally, this holistic model will help to shift phytotherapy to a primary approach to slowing neurodegeneration and enhancing the quality of life. The future directions are the clinical validation, standardization of compounds, and integration into personalized medicine models.