Neuropharmacological Potential of Evolvulus alsinoides Linn. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Evidence in Rodent Models

Neurological and psychiatric disorders, including cognitive impairment, depression, and epilepsy, remain major causes of disability worldwide. Although pharmacological treatments exist, they are often limited by adverse effects and poor tolerability. Evolvulus alsinoides Linn., widely used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for neurological conditions, lacks comprehensive preclinical validation. This study aimed to systematically evaluate its neuropharmacological efficacy in rodent models. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted up to May 2025. Inclusion criteria targeted controlled in vivo studies using E. alsinoides extracts in rodent models of cognitive decline, depression, or seizures. Data were extracted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to calculate standardized mean differences (SMDs) across four domains: cognition, mood, seizure control, and biochemical modulation. Risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE tool. Fourteen studies published between 2005 and 2025 met inclusion criteria, of which nine qualified for meta-analysis. E.alsinoides significantly improved cognitive function (SMD = 7.73), reduced depressive behavior (SMD = –19.38), increased seizure latency (SMD = 4.86), and modulated biochemical markers (SMD = –8.70). Heterogeneity was high but reduced following sensitivity analysis. Publication bias was minimal after outlier adjustment. Preclinical evidence supports the neuropharmacological potential of E. alsinoides, likely mediated through cholinergic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Standardization of extracts and further toxicity studies are essential for its development as a neurotherapeutic agent.