From Gut to Brain: Herbal Immunomodulation as a Potential Therapy for theManagement of Neurodegenerative Disorders

From Gut to Brain: Herbal Immunomodulation as a Potential Therapy for the
Management of Neurodegenerative Disorders

Dr. Sandeep Kumar Mishra
Faculty of Pharmacy, Kalinga University, Raipur (C.G.)
Neuroinflammation is a prevalent pathophysiological phenomenon during numerous
neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) characterized by the dysregulation of central immune
homeostasis. The gut microbiota inhabiting the host gastrointestinal tract (GIT) are integral to the
regulation of host physiology, particularly in maintaining immune equilibrium. Perturbations in
the gut microbiome arise from myriad factors and can disrupt this intricate immune balance,
precipitating inflammatory states. Such inflammation is implicated in the etiopathogenesis of
various neurological diseases, including NDDs, by exacerbating neuroinflammatory processes.
Comprehending the interplay between the gut microbiota and the central nervous system (CNS) is
crucial, as it explores the peripheral contributions to the pathogenesis of NDDs. Recent studies
have underscored the significance of peripheral factors in the pathogenesis of NDDs. Gut dysbiosis
contributes to neuroinflammation and the etiology of NDDs through disruptions in the GBA.
Nearly all NDDs are linked to an immune component. Hence, there is a significant and
growing need to develop new immunomodulatory therapies to effectively combat such chronic
diseases. The development of novel immunomodulatory therapies holds the promise of better
management and potential improvement of these chronic illnesses by precisely modulating the
immune system’s activity. These therapies aim to restore balance in immune function, reduce
chronic inflammation, and prevent immune-related damage to tissues and organs
Herbs have been recognized for their medicinal properties for centuries. Recent research
has highlighted the therapeutic potential of immunomodulatory herbs in managing NDDs. Unlike
conventional drugs that often target a single pathway, immunomodulatory herbs typically have
multiple active compounds that can modulate various biological pathways simultaneously.
Targeting the gut-brain axis with immunomodulatory herbs offers a promising approach for
managing neurodegenerative disorders. By maintaining gut microbiota balance, modulating
immune responses, reducing inflammation, and enhancing neuroprotection, these herbs can
address the multifaceted nature of NDDs. Immunomodulation through herbs can ameliorate
dysbiosis-associated neuroinflammation, thereby presenting a potential way for managing NDDs.