ce:italic>Centella asiatica (Gotu kola)/ce:italic> as a neuroprotectant and its potential role in healthy ageing

摘要

BackgroundChronic and degenerative diseases have become major concerns in healthcare and research sectors in the world, especially in hyper-ageing societies. The role of diet in healthy ageing is much emphasised leading to more research on exploring the scientifically backed functional properties of conventional foods.Centella asiatica(Gotu kola) is a herbal plant that is highly valued as a medicine and also commonly used in a variety of cuisine as a green leafy vegetable.Scope and approachThis paper reviews available evidence on health benefits ofC. asiaticaespecially emphasising its role as a neuroprotectant, while providing details on its phytochemistry and pharmacological properties.Key findings and conclusionsComplementing its reputation in traditional medicine as a memory booster,C. asiaticapossesses wholesome anti-oxidative properties to attenuate oxidative stress, a high anti-inflammatory potent, neuron regenerative ability, potential for neuron damage prevention, neurotoxicity inhibition effect, anti-anxiety and anti-depressive properties, AChE inhibitory potential and ability to reduce accumulation of amyloid plaques. These comprehensive multifunctional properties make it capable of promoting general neuroprotection as well as simultaneously targeting multiple disease pathways to arrest neurodegenerative disorders. However, to be used as a therapeutic agent, a proper evaluation should be done of the active ingredients, presence of any synergistic effects, efficient extraction methods and stabilization of the active ingredients until they are delivered in the body as well as the potential of active ingredients to reach targeted pathological pathways, especially the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB).