Exploring the Neuroprotective Potential of <em>Astragalus Membranaceus</em> in Central Nervous System Diseases

Aim of the work: This review aims to systematically integrate the mechanism of action of Astragalus membranaceus and its active components on central nervous system(CNS) diseases, with a focus on exploring its therapeutic potential, and introducing related health food products that use it as an adjunct treatment for CNS diseases.Materials and methods: Searches were conducted through the PubMed and Web of Science databases using the keywords "Astragalus membranaceus", "Astragali Radix", "Astragaloside IV (AS-IV)", "Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharides (APS)" and "CNS diseases". Reports on the effects of Astragalus membranaceus and its components on CNS diseases were identified and reviewed.Results: This review provides a comprehensive summary of the latest research advancements concerning Astragalus membranaceus across several pivotal domains, including its extensive historical usage, active constituents, pharmacological properties, potential therapeutic applications for CNS disorders, safety profile, contemporary formulations, and significant findings in the realm of health food applications. The medicinal history of Astragalus membranaceus membranaceus is both long-standing and profound, with usage spanning over 2,000 years. Its active components, such as AS-IV and APS, have demonstrated considerable therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of CNS diseases. The pharmacological effects of Astragalus membranaceus membranaceus are diverse, encompassing anti-neuroinflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, anti-apoptotic activities, modulation of autophagy, anti-ferroptotic effects, and protection of the blood-brain barrier. Furthermore, the practical applications of Astragalus membranaceus extend beyond the medical field, encompassing modern pharmaceutical preparations and health food products, among other areas. Despite the promising potential of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of CNS diseases, numerous challenges persist in the comprehensive investigation of its pharmacological mechanisms and the standardization of its quality. Nonetheless, Astragalus membranaceus occupies an essential and significant role in the management of CNS disorders and is anticipated to have an increasingly prominent impact in related fields in the future.Conclusion: Astragalus membranaceus has emerged as a promising pharmacological agent in the global health sector, attributed to its notable efficacy in addressing CNS disorders. Combining traditional knowledge with innovative research and based on the concept of "homology of medicine and food", the application of Astragalus membranaceus as an auxiliary therapy in the field of health food fully leverages its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, which is an important direction for future research.