Nrf2 Modulators and the Prospects of Indigenous Medicinal Plants

Abstract

Nrf2 is a key transcription factor regulating genes for antioxidant defense, inflammation control, and detoxification, protecting cells from oxidative stress. Natural Nrf2 activators like sulforaphane, curcumin, and quercetin enhance cellular resilience and show promise in treating neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. Conversely, Nrf2 inhibitors such as halofuginone and bardoxolone methyl are used in oncology to suppress tumour-promoting overactivation. Indigenous medicinal plants—especially turmeric (Curcuma longa) and moringa (Moringa oleifera)—are rich in phytochemicals that modulate Nrf2, offering a natural strategy for chronic disease prevention. However, African plants remain underexplored, and clinical trials on natural modulators are limited, with gaps in dosage, efficacy, and safety data. Despite these limitations, the chapter highlights the therapeutic potential of indigenous plants in modulating Nrf2 pathways and recommends intensified research and clinical validation.