Exploring the wonders of nature: an in-depth analysis of natural products and their significance in autism spectrum disorder

The complicated neurodevelopmental disorder known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is typified by deficits in speech, social interaction, and repetitive behaviours. While behavioural therapy is the main emphasis of traditional therapiesand pharmacological interventions, emerging research suggests that natural products offer promising complementary therapeutic benefits. This review explores the role of polyphenols, probiotics, herbal extracts, cannabidiol (CBD), and dietary interventions in ASD management. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenols, including resveratrol and curcumin, lower oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, two important aspects of the pathogenesis of ASD. Sulforaphane, derived from cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to improve behavioral symptoms through Nrf2 pathway activation. Probiotic supplementation influences the gut-brain axis, restoring gut microbiota balance and improving ASD-related gastrointestinal and behavioral symptoms. Medicinal herbs like Ginkgo biloba and Centella asiatica modulate neurotransmitter function, enhancing cognitive performance and neural plasticity. Cannabidiol (CBD) demonstrates anxiolytic and neuroprotective effects, reducing aggression and social impairments in ASD individuals. Nutritional strategies, including omega-3 supplements and the gluten-free and casein-free (GFCF) diet, have been explored for their role in alleviating inflammation and behavioral symptoms. Despite these promising findings, challenges such as dosage standardization, bioavailability, and long-term safety remain. To provide individualized, multimodal therapeutic options for the management of ASD, future research should focus on conducting extensive clinical trials that combine natural treatments with traditional therapies.