Antioxidant Effects of Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Epilepsy

Le résumé fourni par la source

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Despite the availability of various antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), a substantial number of patients continue to experience inadequate seizure control and adverse effects. Consequently, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative treatment options, including medicinal plants, to complement conventional therapies and enhance patient outcomes. This book chapter aims to provide an overview of the antioxidant effects of medicinal plants in epilepsy. Oxidative stress, resulting from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the body's antioxidant defense system, has been implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of epilepsy. Medicinal plants rich in natural antioxidants offer a promising avenue for managing epilepsy by modulating oxidative stress. The chapter begins by discussing the fundamental concepts of epilepsy and oxidative stress, highlighting the intricate interplay between these two phenomena. It then delves into the diverse classes of medicinal plants known for their antioxidant properties and potential application in epilepsy management. Various plant extracts and phytochemicals, including flavonoids, phenolics, terpenoids, and alkaloids, are examined for their ability to scavenge free radicals, inhibit lipid peroxidation, and enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses. Furthermore, the chapter explores the mechanistic insights behind the antioxidant effects of medicinal plants, such as the activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, modulation of mitochondrial function, and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The potential synergy between antioxidant compounds and conventional AEDs is also discussed, highlighting the prospect of combination therapies. Finally, the chapter addresses the challenges and future directions in the field of medicinal plants as antioxidants in epilepsy. Standardization of herbal preparations, identification of active compounds, and rigorous clinical trials are crucial for establishing their safety, efficacy, and optimal therapeutic strategies. In summary, this book chapter provides a comprehensive exploration of the antioxidant effects of medicinal plants in epilepsy. It emphasizes the potential of these natural compounds as adjunctive therapies, opening new avenues for personalized treatment approaches that can improve seizure control and enhance the overall well-being of individuals living with epilepsy.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.