Naturally-occurring Bioactive Molecules with Anti- Parkinson Disease Potential

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex limiting neurodegenerative disorder, with a rising incidence. Current therapeutic options for PD have multiple limitations, and naturally occurring biomolecules, often known as phytochemicals, with potent neuroprotective activities, have been searched to meet the need. Thus, this chapter encompasses in-depth information on reported anti-PD activities of medicinal plants in light of available pre-clinical and clinical studies and shares the mechanisms of action proposed in fighting PD. Published information from PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Springer, Google Scholar, and other allied databases was analyzed. There is rising interest among researchers in investigating medicinal plants and their isolated compounds for their anti-PD efficacy. Scattered information about the anti-PD potential of plants and bioactive compounds is reported in the scientific domain. A total of 92 medicinal plants belonging to 63 families, exhibiting anti-PD activity were discussed. Botanical species have revealed an extreme potential, encouraging future examination. Data discussed here can be used for further research and clinical purposes.

Keywords: Bioactive molecules, Dopamine, Lewy bodies, Medicinal plant extracts, Parkinson's disease, Substantia nigra.