Advancing Alzheimer's Therapy with Moringa oleifera: Bioactive Insights, Mechanistic Pathways, and Strategies for Efficacy and Standardization

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents a devastating condition that profoundly impacts the quality of life for both affected individuals and their families. Currently, there is no viable treatment for AD. Conventional drugs for AD provide symptomatic relief by temporarily improving cognitive function or slowing the progression of specific symptoms. These medications do not stop or reverse the underlying neurodegeneration, offering only modest benefits in managing the disease, and often come with unpleasant side effects, making adherence challenging for patients. Natural treatments made from plants have drawn interest for their potential to lessen AD symptoms while having a lesser side-effect profile. Among these, Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera), also referred to as the “miracle tree,” has gained attention for its wide range of health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. By delving into the bioactive compounds underpinning its mechanisms of action, exploring M. oleifera through various omics technologies, and addressing the challenges associated with its standardization, this review provides an in-depth analysis of its potential in AD therapy. This review also highlights the need for further research to unlock the full spectrum of factors that could enhance the efficacy of M. oleifera in combating AD by bridging its phytochemical properties with practical therapeutic applications. Therefore, understanding and harnessing the full therapeutic potential of M. oleifera could pave the way for more effective interventions in AD management.