Nerve Repair

A focused reference for inflammation, nerve repair, microglial modulation, and BBB protection.

Herb	Mechanism of Action	Neural & Brain Effects	Blood–Brain Barrier / Immune Effects	Cautions
Boswellia (Frankincense)	5-LOX inhibitor; reduces leukotrienes; improves cerebral circulation.	Reduces brain pressure; protects neurons from inflammatory damage.	Helps stabilise endothelial tissue; reduces microglial hyperactivation.	Avoid high doses in pregnancy; interacts with anticoagulants.
Tulsi (Holy Basil)	Reduces cortisol; modulates inflammatory cytokines; antioxidant.	Supports stress-damaged neural tissue; helps regulate neurotransmitters.	Lowers BBB oxidative stress; may reduce T-cell overactivation.	Not ideal with blood thinners; mild hypoglycaemic effect.
Jiaogulan (Gynostemma)	Powerful adaptogen; regulates AMPK, nitric oxide, and cellular energy.	Improves mitochondrial function; supports nerve repair.	May reduce endothelial inflammation and support BBB resilience.	May interact with diabetes medications.
Witch Hazel	Rich in tannins; tightens and protects tissues; antioxidant.	Supports inflamed mucous membranes and microvascular tissues.	Mild astringent effect may help stabilise leaky vessels.	Internal use should be short-term; caution with GI irritation.
Gotu Kola	Boosts collagen and myelin production; improves cerebral blood flow.	One of the best herbs for nerve repair and cognitive restoration.	Strengthens BBB connective tissue; reduces leakage.	Avoid high doses in pregnancy; can cause slight sedation.
Ginkgo Biloba	Improves microcirculation; antioxidant; reduces platelet aggregation.	Improves memory, clarity, oxygen use, and synaptic repair.	Supports microvascular perfusion to the BBB.	Can interact with anticoagulants.
Lion’s Mane	Stimulates NGF (nerve-growth factor); reduces neuroinflammation.	Regenerates damaged nerves; supports cognition.	Modulates microglia; reduces inflammatory cascades.	Rare digestive upset in sensitive individuals.
Reishi	Immune-modulating; calms cytokine storms; potent antioxidant.	Supports long-term nerve recovery; stabilises stress responses.	Reduces microglial overactivation; supports BBB stability.	Not suited for low blood pressure.
Turmeric	Blocks NF-κB; lowers IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-alpha; antioxidant.	Protects neurons from inflammatory damage; improves cell repair.	Improves BBB integrity by reducing oxidative breakdown.	May thin blood; avoid high doses in gallstones.
Ginger	Anti-inflammatory; improves circulation; reduces COX pathways.	Aids nerve perfusion; helps with headaches and nerve pressure.	May support microvascular repair around the BBB.	Can lower blood sugar; mild blood-thinning effect.
Skullcap	Calms CNS; improves GABA signalling; anti-inflammatory.	Reduces nerve irritability, tremors, and agitation.	Mild BBB-soothing effect via lower neuroinflammation.	High doses may cause drowsiness.
Chamomile	Anti-inflammatory; regulates GABA; reduces systemic stress.	Helps calm nerve pain and stress-related inflammation.	Reduces microglial activity in mild neuroinflammation.	Avoid with ragweed allergy.
Mullein	Anti-inflammatory; demulcent; supports oxygen exchange.	Good for nerves affected by hypoxia or respiratory infection.	May indirectly support BBB by improving oxygenation.	Very safe; avoid if allergic to the plant family.
St John’s Wort	Modulates serotonin and nerve repair mechanisms.	Used historically for nerve trauma and neuralgia.	Helps protect BBB under stress conditions.	Major interactions with medications.