Astragaloside IV is a major active component of Astragalus membranaceus, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. In recent years, there has been growing scientific interest in its neuroprotective properties, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's Disease (PD). Preclinical studies—primarily in vitro and in animal models—have demonstrated that Astragaloside IV can exert beneficial effects on dopaminergic neurons by reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting apoptosis (cell death), and modulating inflammatory responses in the brain. For example, several rodent studies have shown that Astragaloside IV administration attenuates motor deficits and loss of dopaminergic neurons in toxin-induced models of PD, likely through mechanisms involving the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and suppression of neuroinflammation (Zhang et al., 2021).

However, these findings are limited to preclinical research; there is a lack of robust clinical trials in humans to confirm efficacy and safety for Parkinson's Disease. Thus, while there is scientific rationale and preliminary evidence supporting its use, the level of evidence is still low (rated 2/5), and its use in clinical practice cannot be currently recommended based solely on existing data. More rigorous human studies are needed to validate its effects in PD patients.