Medicinal plants in the management of muscle loss and sarcopenia: A narrative review of preclinical and clinical evidence from eight species.

Abstract

Muscle loss, whether due to aging (sarcopenia), chronic disease, or disuse, is a major contributor to frailty, reduced mobility, and diminished quality of life. With limited pharmacological options available, there is growing interest in natural therapies that support muscle preservation. This narrative review investigates the potential of eight medicinal plants, Cannabis sativa, Chrysanthemum morifolium, Crocus sativus, Eriobotrya japonica, Glycine max, Olea europaea, Salvia rosmarinus, and Sesamum indicum, in promoting muscle health and mitigating sarcopenia and atrophy. These species were chosen for their prominence in Persian traditional medicine, supporting evidence, and relevance to muscle physiology, while recognizing that other herbs may also be beneficial.