Phytochemical composition and anti-Alzheimer potential of medicinal plants from Central and West Africa: Systematic review.
Mukunzi P, Byishimo BS, Etukudo EM, Iradukunda H, Benimana D, Usman IM, Oviosun A, Usman CO, Ikwuka D, Makena W, Archibong VB.
Medicinal Plants
Common garden vegetables and kitchen staples like avocado, beetroot, and cloves — plants you may already grow or cook with — contain brain-protective compounds that researchers are now studying as potential tools against Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists reviewed studies on plants traditionally used as medicine in West and Central Africa and found that many contain natural chemicals that protect brain cells in ways relevant to Alzheimer's disease. Plants including avocado, beetroot, and cloves produce compounds that calm inflammation in the brain, fight cell damage caused by unstable molecules, and block an enzyme that breaks down memory-related chemicals. This suggests that plants people have relied on for centuries in traditional medicine may hold real clues for treating one of the world's most challenging brain diseases.
Key Findings
13 studies met inclusion criteria; 77% were published between 2014–2024, and 69% were conducted in Nigeria, reflecting a geographic concentration in the research.
12 plant species were identified, including avocado (Persea americana), beetroot (Beta vulgaris), and cloves (Syzygium aromaticum), containing active compounds such as luteolin, catechin, and caffeic acid.
Plant-derived compounds were shown to target three key Alzheimer's disease pathways: acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, oxidative stress reduction, and neuroinflammation suppression.
chevron_right Technical Summary
A systematic review found that 12 medicinal plants from Central and West Africa contain compounds that may help fight Alzheimer's disease by reducing brain inflammation, combating oxidative stress, and blocking an enzyme linked to memory loss.
Abstract Preview
In recent time, the use of medicinal plants in the management of human disease conditions has gained immense attention. The aim of the present review was to explore the phytochemical composition an...
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