Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD), present significant global health issues, with existing treatments primarily providing limited symptom relief. Consequently, there is an increasing scientific focus on the neuroprotective capabilities of medicinal plants that have been utilized in various traditional healing practices. This review examines the therapeutic properties of Ginkgo biloba, Crocus sativus (saffron), Curcuma longa (turmeric), Mucuna pruriens, and Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) plants that are abundant in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and polyphenols. These phytochemicals possess strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, which aid in combating oxidative stress, diminishing protein aggregation, and modulating neurotransmitter levels. Furthermore, plants like Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) and Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) have demonstrated potential in improving cognitive function and maintaining neuronal health. Mechanistic investigations reveal that the modulation of acetylcholinesterase activity and the reduction of reactive oxygen species are significant neuropharmacological mechanisms. Although these results highlight the potential of medicinal plants as neuroprotective agents, additional clinical studies are necessary to confirm their safety and effectiveness as either standalone or complementary treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.
