Promising Neuroprotective Effects of Dracocephalum Species: Mechanistic Perspectives

Neurological diseases have important effects on morbidity and mortality rates. Natural products offer various health benefits, and Dracocephalum species, belonging to the Lamiaceae family, have been traditionally used for several therapeutic values. The genus Dracocephalum and its metabolites have demonstrated numerous pharmacological activities such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antifungal, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, cardioprotective, antiapoptotic, and anticancer effects. Dracocephalum spp. contain phytosterols, polysaccharides, coumarins, alkaloids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenes. This review explores the potential neuroprotective effects of Dracocephalum spp. by evaluating the mechanisms and signaling pathways involved. The role of the genus Dracocephalum was investigated in relation to various neurological conditions such as Alzheimer s disease, insomnia, Parkinson s disease, vascular dementia, cerebral ischemia, pain, depression, and glioblastoma. These findings suggest that Dracocephalum spp. and their phytochemicals have neuroprotective effects by targeting the regulation of various pathways. Therefore, clinical trials should be performed to confirm the in vitro and animal findings.