Abstract
Background: Cognition is critical for functional independence as people age. Neurodegenerative dementias are more likely to affect older adults due to the aging process. The inadequate response of conventional therapeutic approaches, besides numerous side effects, can cause patients to explore complementary and alternative medical options. This study aimed to introduce the most common medicinal herbs used in Persian medicine for the prevention and treatment of cognitive impairments.
Methods: In order to identify medicinal herbs for the treatment and prevention of cognitive diseases, manuscripts were searched by keywords such as “Nesyan”, “Fesad-al-Zekr”, and “Zekr”. Afterwards, the scientific names and pharmacological properties of selected plants were also searched in scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
Results: The results of the review indicate that herbal remedies could be effective in treating cognitive impairment and dementia. The neuroprotective, antioxidant, and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities are the basis for how these remedies work.
Conclusion: The neuropharmacological effects of medicinal plants on numerous pathways make them promising candidates for future drugs or adjunct therapies in combination with established pharmaceuticals; however, further clinical research is required to establish the safety and effectiveness of these treatments.