Phytotherapy in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, and Integrative Perspectives

Background: Global population ageing is leading to a significant increase in the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases, such as dementia, with Alzheimer's disease being the most preva-lent form. Conventional pharmacological treatments have limitations, highlighting the need to explore complementary therapeutic approaches.Objective: To analyse the scientific evidence on the possible effects and mechanisms of action of medicinal plants in the context of dementia.Methods: Review of the scientific literature on medicinal plants with potential application in dementia, including Ginkgo biloba, Bacopa monnieri, Huperzia serrata, Rhodiola rosea, and Curcuma longa.Results: The medicinal plants analysed demonstrate therapeutic potential through various mechanisms of action, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective proper-ties. The synergy between plant compounds is of great importance for treatment.Conclusion: Herbal medicine emerges as a promising complementary therapeutic strategy in the prevention and treatment of dementia, offering vast potential through the synergy of its compounds. Continuous and rigorous research is essential to understand the full therapeutic potential of medicinal plants and integrate them safely and effectively into health care.