Neuroprotective potential of woohwangchungsimwon for dementia and mild cognitive impairment: Its key components, compounds, and bioactivities

Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline that compromises daily functioning, with Alzheimer's disease (AD) representing its most prevalent form. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a prodromal stage of AD and provides an important window for early intervention. Woohwangchungsimwon (WCW) is a multicomponent natural medicinal formulation historically used to promote cardiovascular and neurological stability and to alleviate excessive heat and phlegm. This review evaluated the potential of WCW to ameliorate symptoms associated with dementia and MCI. A narrative review of experimental and pharmacological studies was conducted to examine the bioactive compounds, bioactivities, mechanisms, and reported outcomes of eight key natural medicinal components of WCW: Angelicae Gigantis Radix, Calculus Bovis, Cinnamomi Cortex, Dioscoreae Rhizoma, Ginseng Radix, Glycyrrhizae Radix, Hoelen and Zingiberis Rhizoma, which possess neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Although current evidence regarding WCW and its active components is derived predominantly from preclinical models and studies conducted within broader neurological contexts, its multicomponent nature suggests significant potential for targeting multiple pathological processes relevant to dementia and MCI. Well-designed clinical trials are now needed to clarify the therapeutic efficacy and safety of WCW in patients with cognitive impairment.