Free Radicals, the Natural Antioxidant Buyang Huanwu Decoction and Ischemic Stroke

Abstract

Ischemic stroke is a widespread health issue worldwide, and a major cause of death and disability in an aging population. Research shows that reactive oxygen and free radicals generated by oxidative stress play an important role in cell apoptosis and often leads to stroke, one of the main causes of brain damage. Excessive free radicals also cause lipid peroxidation, leading to irreversible damage to cell membranes. The presence of free radical scavengers provides protection to brain tissues and can reduce the risk of stroke. Natural antioxidants have proved to be effective in the prevention and treatment of stroke, while also displaying fewer side effects. Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription is commonly used for the prevention and treatment of ischemic cerebral stroke by inhibiting the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Understanding the role of free radicals and the mechanisms by which natural antioxidants are used for the prevention and treatment of stroke can provide new insight into the research and clinical treatment of ischemic stroke.