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Review
Ethnomedicine and Phytomedicines
2026
:5;
2
doi:
10.25259/AJPPS_2026_002

Neuroinflammatory mechanisms in ischemic stroke and phytotherapeutic interventions for enhanced recovery: A review

Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria.
Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author: Umar Faruk Saidu, BS Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria. farouk.saidu@gmail.com

Licence
This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-Share Alike 4.0 License, which allows others to remix, transform, and build upon the work non-commercially, as long as the author is credited and the new creations are licensed under the identical terms.

How to cite this article: Suleiman N, Sanusi F, Bulama I, et al. Neuroinflammatory mechanisms in ischemic stroke and phytotherapeutic interventions for enhanced recovery: A review. Am J Pharmacother Pharm Sci 2026:002

Abstract

Stroke is a significant global health challenge, causing substantial mortality and disability worldwide, with its prevalence rising particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This review discusses the role of inflammatory cells in ischemic stroke (IS), the limitations of conventional drugs, and the emerging potential of plant-derived medications. Drawing from extensive research, it highlights recent findings on neuroinflammation and neuroprotective strategies using natural compounds. IS triggers a complex inflammatory response involving microglia, astrocytes, and leukocytes, which significantly contributes to secondary tissue damage; understanding this interplay is crucial for developing effective interventions. Conventional drugs, such as recombinant tissue plasminogen activator and antiplatelet agents, face limitations including a narrow therapeutic window and the risk of hemorrhagic transformation, underscoring the need for alternative approaches. Plant-derived medications show considerable promise due to their neuroprotective effects and ability to modulate inflammatory pathways. Bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols offer potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may improve treatment outcomes. Recent research has unveiled their mechanisms of action, which include reducing oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and promoting neurogenesis, suggesting a strong potential to mitigate neuronal damage and aid post-stroke recovery. Exploring plant-derived medications represents a paradigm shift toward utilizing natural compounds for stroke management. By tapping into the vast pharmacological potential of plants, researchers aim to develop safer and more effective therapies that overcome the limitations of conventional drugs. These advancements offer hope for improving IS management and reducing its global burden. Continued research is crucial to unlock these innovative therapeutic strategies and enhance patient outcomes worldwide.

Keywords

Ischemic stroke
Neuroinflammation
Neuroprotection
Phytotherapy

INTRODUCTION

Ischemic stroke (IS) is one of the most debilitating neurological conditions worldwide. It is characterized by the sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, leading to neuronal damage and inflammation. Amidst the intricate pathophysiological cascade triggered by ischemia, neuroinflammatory mechanisms play a pivotal role in exacerbating tissue injury and impeding recovery. Stroke refers to an interruption of normal blood flow that causes damage in the brain or spinal cord. This condition presents suddenly and has a multifaceted pathophysiology.[1,2] According to the World Health Organization (WHO’s) global health estimates (2000–2019), it is the second leading cause of disability and death worldwide after ischemic heart disease, responsible for approximately 11% of total deaths.[3]

Stroke is typically classified as either ischemic or hemorrhagic. Approximately 87% of cases are ischemic, making it the most prevalent type worldwide.[4,5] IS occurs due to insufficient cerebral blood flow, depriving the brain of essential nutrients such as glucose and oxygen.[1] Conversely, hemorrhagic stroke results from bleeding into the brain or subarachnoid space, often due to a ruptured blood vessel. This causes increased intracranial pressure.[1]

Stroke risk factors are broadly divided into non-modifiable and modifiable categories. Non-modifiable factors include advancing age, sex, and genetic predisposition.[6] Modifiable factors encompass lifestyle-related contributors and underlying conditions such as atrial fibrillation, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking, physical inactivity, poor diet, abdominal obesity, and alcohol consumption.[6] Hypertension is the most significant risk factor, accounting for approximately 54% of strokes globally.[6,7] A recent surge in stroke incidence among young adults has been linked to modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and tobacco and illicit substance use in this demographic.[8]

The WHO estimated in 2020 that the highest burden of stroke falls upon low- and middle-income nations,[3] an assessment aligned with data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD 2016) study.[9] Furthermore, the incidence of stroke doubled in developing low-income countries during this period. Incidence escalates with age, doubling after the age of 55.[9] However, there is growing concern regarding a 5.7% global surge in stroke occurrences among individuals aged 20–54 from 1990 to 2016, as reported by the GBD study.[9] Notably, younger women face a heightened risk and greater fatality rate compared to older women, attributable to pregnancy-related factors such as preeclampsia and contraceptive or hormonal therapy use.[9]

Africa currently bears one of the highest stroke burdens worldwide, with incidence rates potentially 2–3 times higher than in Western Europe and the USA.[10] This high burden is driven by factors such as the poor diagnosis and management of stroke risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.[11] Furthermore, the prevalence of conditions such as Chagas disease, sickle-cell disease, and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in Africa increases the population’s stroke risk.[11] Inadequate public health responses and limited access to quality health services and treatment options in many African countries also contribute to the increasing incidence.[11] For example, a case–control study by Sarfo et al. identified a low income (<$1000) as a risk factor for the increasing stroke burden in Ghana and Nigeria.[5]

Amidst this complexity, emerging research sheds light on promising phytotherapeutic interventions aimed at attenuating neuroinflammation and promoting post-stroke recovery.[12] This review explores the intricate interplay between neuroinflammatory mechanisms in IS and the potential of phytotherapeutic strategies to mitigate its detrimental effects, offering new avenues for therapeutic intervention.

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ISCHEMIC STROKE

In the majority of cases, IS occurs due to arterial obstruction, leading to a temporary cessation of blood flow. The sequence of events following the onset of ischemic brain damage begins with the formation of a core of irreversibly damaged necrotic tissue within the affected vascular region. This is followed by the development of late-phase injury in the peri-infarct area, which includes a potentially salvageable region surrounding the core.[13]

Reperfusion is critical to prevent further damage to the ischemic brain tissue; however, the restoration of circulation can paradoxically exacerbate injury.[14] The middle cerebral artery (MCA) is a common site of occlusion in IS. Experimentally, bilateral or unilateral common carotid artery occlusion is often used to induce transient focal cerebral ischemia in rodents,[15] a model relevant due to the increasing clinical incidence of carotid stenosis in acute stroke, which often manifests as unilateral or bilateral carotid artery occlusion.[16] Research into IS and its associated neuronal injuries indicates that oxidative stress (OS) and immune responses are key contributors to the resulting neuronal damage.[17]

Oxidative stress

OS is primarily a disturbance in the balance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses. It is induced in cerebral ischemia mainly through inflammation and reperfusion, which significantly increase ROS production in both the brain and cardiovascular system.[18,19] OS is a primary factor in post-stroke injuries, triggering inflammation, a crucial immune response following stroke.[20] In addition, OS contributes to neuronal apoptosis, excitotoxicity, and compromises blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity, thereby exacerbating overall brain damage.[21]

The radical nitric oxide (NO) is elevated during brain ischemia. While it plays a role in restoring blood supply and reducing damage, it also encourages the formation of peroxynitrite through its reaction with the superoxide anion. NO further promotes the expression of adhesion molecules and inflammatory mediators, inhibits enzymes necessary for DNA replication, and disrupts cellular iron homeostasis.[22]

Several herbal compounds with antioxidant activities have shown promise in alleviating OS in IS. For instance, research on ligusticum chuanxiong volatile oil demonstrates its ability to mitigate ischemic damage. It reduces cerebral infarction volume and boosts the activity of key antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in rat models, alongside a notable decrease in malondialdehyde levels.[23]

Necrotic cell death

Ischemic necrosis is a key feature in the pathophysiology of IS. Decreased blood flow subjects neurons in the ischemic core to necrosis. The reduction in blood flow leads to a critical decrease in Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for maintaining neuronal membrane potential through the Na+/K+-ATPase pump.[24] During ischemia, the failure of this pump disrupts the regulation of Na+ and K+ concentrations across the neuronal cell membrane. This leads to sodium accumulation, cellular edema, and eventual cellular rupture, resulting in the degradation of nuclei and the release of cellular contents into the extracellular environment.[24] This release of cellular components triggers inflammatory reactions around the dying cell. Furthermore, Ca2+ overload, excessive ROS, and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) formation contribute to mitochondrial swelling, thereby promoting neuronal death.[25]

Neuroinflammation

The pathophysiology of stroke involves a progressive systematic immune response after the initiation of stroke that contributes to neuronal loss as well as tissue repair. The process involves actions of the immune cells, immune mediators, and effector molecules which impact the severity of the stroke and the recovery process.[26] Post-ischemic inflammation accounts for the secondary progression of brain damage and the severity of stroke outcome.[13] The fervent neuroinflammation that occurs following IS through the interaction of inflammatory cells, chemokines, inflammatory cytokines, and the complement system is actively involved in causing BBB damage, leading to hemorrhagic transformation.[27]

A key mechanism in this process involves leukocytes, which are a significant source of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). MMP-9 is instrumental in the initial destruction of the BBB, and in turn, further facilitates leukocyte recruitment, creating a vicious cycle of disruption.[28] The increased number of circulating leucocytes plays a major role by blocking the flow of erythrocytes through the microvasculature and increasing adherence to the endothelium. This causes significant damage to the blood vessels and brain tissues, thereby aggravating neuronal injury and activating proinflammatory factors which lead to the production of ROS, proteases, and MMPs.[28]

This inflammatory cascade is propagated by the sequential invasion of immune cells. Following neutrophils, monocytes adhere to the vessel walls and move toward ischemic regions.[29] Inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, interleukins, and MMPs also contribute majorly to this process by promoting the expression of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) in the ischemic core, which further AIDS the recruitment of leukocytes.[29] The resulting BBB disruption leads to the migration and infiltration of various inflammatory cells such as macrophages, natural killer cells, T lymphocytes, and polymorphonuclear leukocytes to the ischemic site. Studies have shown that the infiltrating leukocytes and activated microglia elevate cytokines, and some studies have reported that resident neurons and glia also produce cytokines following brain ischemia.[30]

To synthesize these pathophysiological mechanisms, we developed a flowchart illustrating the sequential processes involved in the development and progression of IS [Figure 1]. The flowchart also highlights potential therapeutic entry points for natural compounds that may aid in the management of IS.

Neuroinflammatory cascade in ischemic stroke pathology and phytotherapeutic interventions. ↑ - Increase; ↓ - Decrease; DAMPs: Damage-associated molecular patterns, ROS: Reactive oxygen species, RNS: Reactive nitrogen species, BBB: Blood–brain barrier, ICAM-1: Intercellular adhesion molecule 1, ATP: Adenosine triphosphate, MMP-9: Matrix metalloproteinase-9, NK: Natural killer, TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-1β: Interleukin-1 beta. Core pathological triggers , secondary damage , neuroinflammation , and phytotherapy intervention .
Figure 1:
Neuroinflammatory cascade in ischemic stroke pathology and phytotherapeutic interventions. ↑ - Increase; ↓ - Decrease; DAMPs: Damage-associated molecular patterns, ROS: Reactive oxygen species, RNS: Reactive nitrogen species, BBB: Blood–brain barrier, ICAM-1: Intercellular adhesion molecule 1, ATP: Adenosine triphosphate, MMP-9: Matrix metalloproteinase-9, NK: Natural killer, TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-1β: Interleukin-1 beta. Core pathological triggers , secondary damage , neuroinflammation , and phytotherapy intervention .

This flowchart illustrates the sequential pathophysiological events triggered by cerebral ischemia. The initial vascular occlusion leads to energy failure (massive ATP depletion), which simultaneously initiates two parallel damaging pathways: OS (characterized by overproduction of ROS and RNS including peroxynitrite) and necrotic cell death (due to Na+/K+ pump failure, cellular swelling, and rupture). These primary insults converge to initiate a self-amplifying neuroinflammatory cascade.

Key convergent steps include (1) release of damage-associated molecular patterns from necrotic neurons, which activate resident microglia and (2) OS directly compromising BBB integrity and promoting neuronal apoptosis and excitotoxicity. Activated microglia produce pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-α], interleukin-1 beta [IL-1β]), which upregulate adhesion molecules (intercellular adhesion molecule 1, selectins) on endothelial cells, facilitating leukocyte invasion (neutrophils and monocytes). Infiltrated leukocytes release MMP-9, ROS, and additional cytokines, which collectively degrade the basement membrane and tight junctions of the BBB. This disruption permits further influx of inflammatory cells (T-cells, macrophages, natural killer cells), creating a self-perpetuating vicious cycle (emphasized by bold arrows) that amplifies neuroinflammation and leads to hemorrhagic transformation and aggravated brain damage. Phytotherapeutic interventions (highlighted in green) demonstrate potential mechanisms for disrupting this pathological cascade. Scutellaria baicalensis (through baicalein) targets both OS and pro-inflammatory cytokine production; Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) provides anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidant protection; and Buyang Huanwu decoction (BHD) employs a multi-target approach by inhibiting apoptosis, reducing inflammation, and promoting neurogenesis and angiogenesis. The diagram highlights the interconnected nature of these pathways, demonstrating how initial ischemic injury evolves into sustained inflammatory damage through multiple reinforcing feedback loops.

TARGETING NEUROINFLAMMATION IN IS: MANAGEMENT PRACTICE

The management of IS focuses on minimizing neuronal injury by addressing arterial occlusion and facilitating cerebral reperfusion. Acute treatment strategies primarily involve thrombolytic agents to swiftly restore blood flow. However, these agents are effective only within a narrow therapeutic window post-stroke. Once this acute period is surpassed, the risk of irreversible neuronal loss escalates due to the initiation of cell death pathways.[26]

Medical interventions aim to restore blood flow to the affected area and minimize the extent of necrosis. These primarily include thrombolytic therapy to dissolve blood clots, such as the use of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA), or mechanical thrombectomy for clot removal.[31] At present, rtPA is the sole Food and Drug Administration-approved thrombolytic agent for IS.[31] Despite its efficacy, rtPA faces significant limitations, notably a constrained therapeutic time window (<4.5 h). Its primary adverse effects include intracerebral bleeding, hemorrhagic transformation, and neurotoxicity.[27] These limitations necessitate the exploration of alternative therapies for stroke management.

Nanomedicine in management of stroke

Recent research trends indicate that nanomedicines can be developed as targeted therapies for stroke and other inflammation-associated cerebrovascular diseases due to their promising anti-inflammatory effects.[32] Yuan et al. discovered that the bioactive nanoparticle anti-inflammatory therapeutic based on tempol-conjugated phenylboronic acid pinacol ester-modified cyclodextrin nanoparticle (ATPCDNP) demonstrates notably enhanced in vivo efficacy resulting from its inflammation-resolving activity.[32] This nanoparticle is derived from loading the anti-inflammatory peptide Ac2-26 onto an active oligosaccharide material, tempolconjugated phenylboronic acid pinacol ester-modified cyclodextrin (TPCD). Previous research also revealed that a synthesized biomimetic Mn3O4 nanoenzyme constrained IS and reduced nervous injury by lowering inflammation levels, prolonging circulation time, and exhibiting potent ROSscavenging activity.[33]

Gut microbiota interventions in management of stroke

Bacteriotherapy, the manipulation of gut microbiota, is gaining increasing attention in stroke research. Its importance lies in the crucial role the gut microbiota plays in modulating the immune system and inflammation.[34,35] Microbiota-focused studies have demonstrated the potential to reverse stroke recovery impairment in elderly mice through post-stroke bacteriotherapy. This approach involves restoring a more youthful gut microbiome by manipulating the immunologic, microbial, and metabolomic profiles.[34,35]

Molecular therapies in management of stroke

Molecular therapeutic approaches encompass various interventions. One strategy is the augmentation of macrophage efferocytosis to address IS, which AIDS in inflammation resolution, brain repair, and the restoration of neurological functions.[36] The intranasal administration of a novel Wnt protein has shown promise in specifically promoting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This protein acts as an immunomodulatory agent, ameliorating toxic responses in microglia/macrophages and astrocytes during ischemic brain injury.[36] Another avenue involves angiopoietin-like 4, which enhances post-stroke angiogenesis and neurogenesis by upregulating protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation, reducing neuronal death, and inhibiting inflammatory responses.[37] The adoptive transfer of CD3+NK1.1-TCRβ+CD4-CD8- double-negative T cells has demonstrated a significant reduction in infarct volume and improved sensorimotor function following IS.[38] Intranasal administration of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) carrying brain-derived neurotrophic factor (sEVs) resulted in the upregulation of neuroprotection-related genes, downregulation of inflammation-related genes, and decreased inflammatory cytokine expression and glial response.[24] Similarly, manipulating molecular receptors, such as with the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist exendin-4, protects the BBB and reduces brain inflammation following cerebral ischemia. Notably, GLP-1R is expressed on astrocytes.[39] Furthermore, the complement C3a receptor, known for its regulatory role in inflammation and involvement in neurodevelopment and plasticity, has been targeted through intranasal administration of its agonist to enhance outcomes after IS.[40]

Pharmacological agents in management of IS

Pharmacological interventions utilize agents with anti-inflammatory and/or antioxidant properties for IS management.[41] For instance, combined therapy with chlorpromazine and promethazine has demonstrated efficacy in inhibiting the neuroinflammatory response and activation of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, conferring neuroprotection after ischemia/reperfusion.[41] Similarly, edaravone dexborneol, which has completed a phase III clinical trial and obtained approval from China’s National Medical Products Administration for treating IS, exhibits the ability to restore redox balance and regulate inflammatory immune responses. This dual action provides neuroprotection in IS.[42]

PHYTOTHERAPY USED IN MANAGEMENT OF NEUROINFLAMMATION IN STROKE

Herbal medicines, primarily derived from plants, represent a valuable reservoir for discovering new therapeutic agents addressing various human ailments. Herbs are often associated with fewer reported side effects compared to allopathic medicine, and they may be suitable for extended periods of use in the context of longstanding health issues such as stroke.[43] Despite the promise, the translation of findings from laboratory animal research to clinical trials has posed a significant challenge for incorporating herbal medicine into stroke treatment.[43]

Various naturally occurring plant-derived compounds have demonstrated efficacy in both preventing and treating stroke [Table 1]. These compounds are not only cost-effective and accessible compared to synthetic alternatives but also often offer enhanced safety and efficacy profiles.[44] Numerous studies have highlighted their potent anti-inflammatory potential, effectively protecting animals from inflammation-associated neurodegenerative diseases, including stroke. Some plant compounds also exhibit vasodilatory properties that can improve blood flow, a crucial factor in stroke recovery. Furthermore, dietary approaches like plant-based diets have been linked to a lower overall risk of stroke.[45] A key therapeutic strategy involves combining these plants into traditional formulations or decoctions that can simultaneously target multiple pathways in stroke pathology [Table 2]. Single plant compounds can exhibit targeted or multi-mechanistic actions. For example, berberine specifically inhibits the pro-inflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2),[46] while Curcuma longa’s curcumin primarily suppresses the NF-kB signaling pathway.[47] Others such as S. baicalensis (through baicalin) and W. somnifera offer broader protection by targeting both OS and inflammation or apoptosis [Figure 1 and Table 1].[48,49] However, traditional formulations or decoctions are designed for multi-systemic intervention by combining several such herbs [Table 2]. BHD demonstrates multi-systemic target, as its formula simultaneously downregulates genes for inflammation and apoptosis while upregulating neurogenesis [Figure 1].[50] Similarly, the NaoXinTong Capsule acts on diverse processes from OS to neurovascularization.[51] This evolution- from single-target molecules to multi-mechanistic plants and finally to synergistic decoctions showcases a strategic shift from isolated interventions to holistic system regulation in managing stroke pathology.

Table 1: Isolated plants and compounds with phytotherapeutic potential in ischemic stroke.
Plant Family Active compound Outcome References
Berberine Berbericidaceae Alkaloid Anti-inflammatory (↓cyclooxygenase-2, prostaglandin E2); anti-atherosclerotic (↓LDL) [46]
Curcuma longa Zingiberaceae Curcumin Anti-inflammatory [47]
Scutellariabaicalensis(Baikal Skullcap) Lamiaceae Baicalin Anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory [48]
Withania somnifera(Ashwagandha) Solanaceae Withanolides Antioxidant; Anti-apoptotic [49]
Garlic Amaryllidaceae Organosulfur Addresses comorbidities (atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes) [52]
Panax quinquefolius L. (American Ginseng) Ginseng Ginsenosides Neuroprotective; anxiolytic [53]
Panax ginseng (Ginseng) Ginseng Panaxatriol saponins Pro-angiogenic (↑VEGF, Angiopoietin-1); ↑Cerebral perfusion [54]
Ginkgo biloba Ginkgoaceae Ginkgo Biloba Extract Multi-target alleviation of stroke pathology; clinically safe [55,56]
Clinacanthus nutans Acanthaceae Ethanol leaf extract Anti-inflammatory (↓NF-κB, ↓IL-1β) [57]
Morin Moraceae Flavonoid Antioxidant; Anti-inflammatory (↓proinflammatory cytokines) [58]
Moringa Oleifera Moringaceae Crude Extract Antioxidant (↓ oxidative stress) [59]
Quercetin Various Flavonoid Antioxidant, Anti-apoptotic, Anti-inflammatory, reduces Ca2+overload [60]
Colebrookea oppositifolia Lamiaceae Methanolic root extract Antioxidant (↑SOD, ↓Lipid peroxidation); Anti-inflammatory (↓TNF-α, IL-6, ICAM-1) [61]
Angelica gigas Apiaceae Hairy root extract BBB protectant (↑ZO-1, Occludin; ↓permeability); Pro-angiogenic (↑VEGF) [62]
Cassia obtusifolia Fabaceae Cassiae semen Anti-inflammatory [63]
Arctigenin Asteraceae Lignan Anti-inflammatory (↓Microglial activation, TNF-α, IL-1β) [64]
Cinnamon Lauraceae Cinnamon extract Anti-inflammatory (↓IL-6, TNF-α, MMPs) [65]
Silybum marianum (Milk Thistle) Asteraceae Silymarin, Silibinin Anti-inflammatory (inhibits NF-κB, STAT-1) [66]
Cymbopogon martinii Graminae Essential Oil Neuroprotective; potent antioxidant [67]
Salviae Miltiorrhizae (Danshen) Lamiaceae Salvianolic acid A Antioxidant (inhibits eNOS uncoupling & ONOO-formation) [68]
Herba Leonuri (Motherwort) Lamiaceae Leonurine (Alkaloid) Antioxidant, Anti-apoptotic, protects mitochondrial function [69]
Momordica charantia (Bitter Melon) Cucurbitaceae Momordica charantiaPolysaccharide Antioxidant; inhibits JNK3 signaling [70]
Polygonum multiflorum Polygonaceae Emodin Anti-apoptotic (↑Bcl-2/Bax, p-Akt; ↓Caspase-3) [71]
Mimusops elengi Sapotaceae Polyphenolic Compounds Antioxidant; Anti-inflammatory [72]
Boswellia serrata Burseraceae 11-Keto-β-boswellic acid Antioxidant (activates Nrf2/HO-1 pathway) [73]
Paeonia lactiflora Paeoniaceae Paeoniflorin Anti-apoptotic (↑Bcl-2, ↓Bax); inhibits astrocyte over-activation [74]
Apium graveolens (Celery) Apiaceae Not specified Neuroprotective; Antioxidant; Anti-inflammatory [75]
Uncaria sinensis (Gou Teng) Rubiaceae Partially Purified Components BBB protectant (inhibits MMP-9, protects tight junctions) [76]
Eclipta alba Asteraceae Extract Enhances antioxidant defenses [77]
Brassica rapa L. Brassicaceae Functional Monomer Neuroprotective; Anti-hypoxia [78]
Vitis amurensis Vitaceae Methanol Extract Anti-apoptotic, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory (Anti-excitotoxic) [79]
Marine Algae Various Phenolics, Carotenoids, Polysaccharides Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, promotes cholesterol homeostasis [80]

SOD: Superoxide dismutase, BBB: Blood–brain barrier, ICAM-1: Intercellular adhesion molecule 1, MMP-9: Matrix metalloproteinase-9, TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-1β: Interleukin-1 beta. Core pathological triggers, Secondary damage, Neuroinflammation, Phytotherapy intervention, LDL: Low-density lipoprotein, VEGF: Vascular endothelial growth factor, NF-κB: Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells. Key: Increase ↑; Decrease ↓

Table 2: Traditional decoctions and formulations with phytotherapeutic potential in ischemic stroke.
Decoction/formulation Origin Composition Outcome References
Tongqiao Huoxue Decoction Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Radix Paeoniae Rubra, Rhizoma Chuanxiong, Semen Persicae, Flos Carthami, + 5 others Anti-inflammatory (↓serum TNF-αand IL-6) [81]
Buyang Huanwu Decoction TCM Astragalus mongholicus, Angelica sinensis, Paeonia lactiflora, + 4 others Multi-target. ↓inflammation, apoptosis; ↑neurogenesis, angiogenesis [50]
Mijianchangpu Decoction (MJCPD) TCM Contains Suberic acid, epishyobunone, etc. Neuroprotective [19]
NaoXinTong Capsule (NXT) TCM Radix Astragali, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, Radix Paeoniae Rubra, + 4 others Multi-target. Acts on inflammation, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and neovascularization [51]
Dengzhan Shengmai capsule TCM Erigeron breviscapus, Panax ginseng, Ophiopogon japonicus, Schisandra chinensis Pro-repair (promotes blood circulation, nourishes Yin) [82]
Huang-Lian-Jie-Du-decoction TCM (Oren-gedoku-to in Japanese) Berberine+Baicalin+Jasminoidin Neuroprotective: potent antioxidant (activates Nrf2 pathway) [83]
Qiancao naomaitong mixture TCM oral liquid Boschniakia himalaica, Lysimachia barystachys Anti-apoptotic, Antioxidant, improves neuronal nutrition [84]
Erigeron breviscapus Injection (DZXI/DZSI) TCM Injection Extract of Erigeron breviscapus BBB protectant (↓iNOS and MMP-9 protein expression) [85,86]
HT047 Herbal Formula Scutellariabaicalensis, Pueraria lobata Combats neuroinflammation [87]
Combined extract Herbal Formula Oryza sativa, Anethum graveolens Improves oxidative stress, inflammation, and cerebral blood flow (↑eNOS) [88]
Combined extract Herbal Formula Trema orientalis, Bacopa monnieri Thrombolytic property [89]

TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-1β: Interleukin-1 beta, BBB: Bood–brain barrier. Key: Increase ↑; Decrease ↓

CONCLUSION

Phytotherapy represents a promising strategic direction for ischemic stroke treatment. It directly addresses critical limitations of current thrombolytics, such as their narrow therapeutic window and reliance on advanced medical infrastructure. By targeting fundamental pathways like neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, herbal medicines offer a viable path toward safer, more accessible, and multi-targeted therapeutic options for a broader global population.

Ethical approval:

Institutional review board approval is not required.

Declaration of patient consent:

Patient’s consent is not required as there are no patients in this study.

Conflicts of interest:

There are no conflicts of interest

Use of artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted technology for manuscript preparation:

The authors confirm that there was no use of artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted technology for assisting in the writing or editing of the manuscript and no images were manipulated using AI.

Financial support and sponsorship: Nil.

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