Treating Epilepsy with Natural Products: Nonsense or Possibility?

Abstract

Epilepsy is a neurological disease characterized by recurrent seizures that can lead to uncontrollable muscle twitching, changes in sensitivity to sensory perceptions, and disorders of consciousness. Although modern medicine has effective antiepileptic drugs, the need for accessible and cost-effective medication is urgent, and products derived from plants could offer a solution. For this review, we have focused on natural compounds that have shown anticonvulsant activity in in vivo models of epilepsy at relevant doses. In some cases, the effects have been confirmed by clinical data. The results of our search are summarized in tables according to their molecular targets. We have critically evaluated the data we present, identified the most promising therapeutic candidates, and discussed these in the text. Their perspectives are supported by both pharmacokinetic properties and potential interactions. This review is intended to serve as a basis for future research into epilepsy and related disorders.

Keywords: AMPA; GABA; NMDA; anticonvulsant; epilepsy; natural products.

Figure 1

Seizure-inducing agents and proposed mechanisms of action. PTZ: pentylenetetrazole; PTX: picrotoxin; GABA-A: γ-aminobutyric acid-A receptor; KARs: kainate receptors; M1: muscarinic receptor M1; NMDA: N-methyl-D-aspartate; ROS: reactive oxygen species; up arrow: increase.

Figure 2

Natural products and their proposed targets of anticonvulsant activity. ROS: reactive oxygen species; CBD: cannabidiol; EXC: extracellular; ITC: intracellular; AMPA: α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid; NMDA: N-methyl-D-aspartate; GABA_A: γ-aminobutyric acid_A; VGSC: voltage-gated sodium channel; VGPC: voltage-gated potassium channel; VGCC: voltage-gated calcium channel; VGClC: voltage-gated chloride channel.