Therapeutic Applications of Secondary Metabolites From Cannabis Sativa in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are progressive disorders involving the loss of neuronal structure and function, leading to cognitive, behavioral, and motor decline. With curative therapies lacking, interest has turned to naturally derived compounds with neuroprotective potential. Plant secondary metabolites show anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects, making them promising candidates for NDD management. Cannabis sativa produces cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), along with terpenes and flavonoids, which act on the endocannabinoid system to regulate neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal plasticity, showing benefits in multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease. Likewise, constituents of Nicotiana tabacum, including nicotine and related alkaloids, can influence neuroinflammatory pathways and provide neuroprotection at controlled doses. This chapter examines their therapeutic potential, mechanisms, evidence, and translational challenges.