Neuroprotective Interventions with Camellia sinensis and Withania somnifera: Molecular and Antioxidant Strategies Against Cognitive Decline and Neurodegeneration

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, are characterized by progressive neuronal loss, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired synaptic signaling. Among natural phytotherapeutics, Camellia sinensis (green tea) and Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) have emerged as promising neuroprotective agents due to their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-enhancing properties. Bioactive polyphenols such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) from C. sinensis and withanolides from W. somnifera modulate key molecular pathways, including Nrf2/ARE, NF-kB, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK, thereby attenuating oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Preclinical and clinical studies suggest that these phytochemicals enhance neuronal survival, promote synaptic plasticity, reduce amyloid-ẞ aggregation, and restore mitochondrial homeostasis Also, their synergistic antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects offer perspectives for integrative approaches to cognitive decline. This chapter provides an overview of the molecular areas, therapeutic potential and translational follows-up of C. sinensis and W. somnifera on neurodegeneration as a neuroprotective agent in this area