Potential use of neuroprotective and L-DOPA-rich plants in parkinsonian therapy

Abstract

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a prevalent movement disorder among the population with more than 10 million living with PD worldwide. L-DOPA has been a drug of choice in the treatment of PD for a long time due to its potential to cross the blood-brain barrier. However, prolonged use of synthetic L-DOPA also exerted toxicities in the patients. A significant number of research studies have been documented for a promising future of using natural L-DOPA resources for the management of PD or perhaps delaying the onset of PD. This review will highlight the potential of some of the natural L-DOPA sources and neuroprotective agents used in PD management.