Neuroprotective effects of paeoniflorin in neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system

Paeoniflorin is a monoterpene glycoside, the β-glucoside of paeoniflorigenin. It is one of the major components of Radix Paeoniae, the herbal product obtained from Paeonia lactiflora Pall., a medicinal plant used in folk medicine, especially in Chinese Traditional Medicine, to treat several human ailments, including dementia and cognitive decline. The neuroprotective effects of paeoniflorin have been studied by many investigations showing that its beneficial effects may derive from its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties, and its ability to promote neuronal survival. This review evaluates scientific evidence on the neuroprotective properties of paeoniflorin. On the basis of literature data, paeoniflorin seems to be a promising compound for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, though definitive recommendation requires further studies.