Abstract

ROLE OF HERBAL MEDICINE IN THE TREATMENT OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASE (ALZIEMER’S, PARKINSON’S)

Sifat Fatima*, Sana Nusrat Praween*

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Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, are becoming more common worldwide, affecting millions of people and leading to serious issues like memory loss, cognitive decline, and difficulty with movement. Unfortunately, current treatments mainly focus on managing symptoms rather than slowing or stopping the disease‘s progression. This has led many to look into alternative treatments, including herbal medicine, which has shown potential in supporting brain health. Herbal remedies are being studied for their ability to protect nerve cells, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function. Some plants, like Ginkgo biloba, Turmeric, Panax ginseng, Ashwagandha, and Centella asiatica, have been researched for their effects on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. These herbs have shown promise in boosting memory, protecting brain cells from damage, improving dopamine levels (which is crucial for Parkinson‘s), and reducing harmful brain inflammation. While the potential for herbal medicine is exciting, we still need more research, including clinical trials, to confirm how well these herbs work and determine the safest dosages. In summary, while herbal treatments might offer some hope as part of a larger strategy for managing these conditions, more rigorous studies are needed before they can be widely recommended as a standard treatment.

Keywords: Alzheimer's, neurodegenerative, Aβ plaques, cognitive memory, medicinal herbs, neurofibrillary tangles.