Pharmacognosy, Antioxidants, Natural Products and Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of death and morbidity worldwide that occurs when brain blood flow is suddenly cut off, causing neural cell death. The field of pharmacognosy has a rich and extensive historical background in the realm of stroke prevention and therapy. Oxidative stress is a major contributor to the onset of chronic and acute brain diseases such as hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes. Antioxidants, both endogenous and exogenous, have anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties that either prevent the generation of RNS (reactive nitrogen species) and ROS (reactive oxygen species) and or destroy them, hence safeguarding the brain against damage caused by free radicals. Natural substances rich in curcuminoids, carotenoids, polyphenols, and flavonoids found in vegetables, fruits, animals, and medicinal plants are gaining popularity for their potential to mitigate stroke damage. Despite the enormous potential of pharmacognosy, antioxidants, and natural compounds in treating stroke, it encounters a number of obstacles, such as a lack of extensive clinical studies and difficulties with standardisation, optimal dosage determination, and safety. Combining Ayurveda, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Western pharmacology with cutting-edge tools like nanotechnology, AI, and multiomics to find new bioactive compounds could aid stroke patients in getting better care.