[Progress in pharmacological effects and mechanisms of α-asarone against epilepsy]

Epilepsy is a clinical syndrome caused by abnormal synchronous discharges of neurons in the brain resulting from multiple etiological factors. Its pathogenesis is complex, and the number of patients is increasing year by year. Existing antiepileptic drugs have problems of drug resistance and various adverse reactions, making it difficult to completely and effectively control the persistent or recurrent seizures of epilepsy. This has become an important issue urgently needing resolution in the field of epilepsy treatment. α-Asarone is an active component of the volatile oil of Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma. Studies have shown that α-asarone exerts therapeutic effects against epilepsy through multiple mechanisms, including anti-apoptosis, anti-inflammation, antioxidation, regulation of neurotransmitter balance, modulation of ion channels, and protection of the blood-brain barrier. The synergistic effect among these mechanisms reflects the unique advantages of α-asarone in multi-level, multi-target, and comprehensive treatment. Therefore, this article reviews the relevant pharmacological mechanisms of α-asarone in epilepsy treatment and the synergistic effects among these mechanisms by searching relevant literature in China and abroad, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the basic research and clinical application of α-asarone.