Advancing brain injury treatment and neuroprotection with ligustilide: Mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Brain injury is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, attributable to diverse etiologies such as trauma, hypoxia, stroke, infection, or neurodegenerative diseases. Due to the complex pathophysiology, high prevalence, and limited therapeutic options, brain injury poses significant healthcare challenges. Current treatment for brain injury involves a combination of medical interventions, surgery, and rehabilitation therapies. Ligustilide, a bioactive component purified from traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has been studied as a promising candidate for neuroprotection. In this review, we summarize current research to understand the mechanisms underlying ligustilide neuroprotective activities and assess its therapeutic potential in treating brain injuries.