1*Research Scholar, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodra, Gujarat (India), 391760
2Associate Professor & HOD, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodra, Gujarat (India), 391760
3Lecturer, Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Pharmacy, Akurdi (Pune), 411044
Neurodegenerative disorders are progressive and multifactorial diseases characterized by neuronal loss, synaptic dysfunction and cognitive and motor impairment. Major pathogenic mechanisms include abnormal protein aggregation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity and disruption of brain barrier systems. Current pharmacological therapies primarily offer symptomatic relief and fail to halt disease progression, highlighting the need for multi-target neuroprotective strategies. Traditional Unani medicine provides a holistic framework for neurological health, emphasizing restoration of cerebral balance and systemic homeostasis. Abresham (Bombyx mori silk) and Ustukhuddus (Lavandula stoechas) are well-established Unani drugs traditionally used for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. Emerging analytical and preclinical evidence demonstrates that Abresham exerts neuroprotective effects through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, mitochondrial-stabilizing, and neuromodulatory actions mediated by silk proteins such as fibroin and sericin. Ustukhuddus exhibits neuroprotection via modulation of GABAergic and cholinergic neurotransmission, suppression of neuroinflammation, and reduction of oxidative stress, largely attributed to its volatile oils and phenolic constituents. This review integrates contemporary mechanistic insights into neurodegeneration with traditional Unani knowledge to highlight the therapeutic potential of Abresham and Ustukhuddus as promising multi-target neuroprotective agents.
Keywords: Neurodegenerative Disorders, Abresham, Ustukhuddus, Systemic Homeostasis.
How to cite this article: Bagwan A, Tripathy S, Jain S. Mechanistic Insights Into Neurodegenerative Disorders With Emphasis On The Neuroprotective Effects Of Abresham And Ustukhuddus. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(15s): 32-47. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.15s.5
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None