Unveiling Nature’s Arsenal: Natural Sources for Drug Discovery in Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) imposes a significant global healthcare challenge, as it currently lacks a definitive cure. This devastating condition disrupts cognitive function, eroding memory retention, and impairing an individual’s activities of daily living. The pathophysiology of AD is multifactorial in nature, and despite extensive research efforts, its precise etiology remains elusive. However, certain risk factors, such as a familial history and genetic predisposition, have been identified. It is imperative to note that the drugs previously approved for AD treatment primarily provide symptomatic relief but do not address the underlying disease progression. Natural products have emerged as invaluable resources for pioneering drug development due to their vast chemical diversity. In recent years, a diverse range of natural compounds, encompassing polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenes, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and vitamins extracted from botanical sources, has achieved significant attention for their potential to address the complex neurodegenerative processes central to AD. In the current chapter, we delve into a comprehensive exploration of AD’s pathophysiology, elucidating various hypotheses that shed light on its complex mechanisms. Additionally, we delve into natural products that hold promise in combating this devastating condition.