Comparative efficacy and safety of botanical drugs for mild cognitive impairment: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

This study evaluated the comparative efficacy and safety of eighteen botanical drug interventions in improving cognitive function, daily living activities, and psychological wellbeing in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

Randomized controlled trials were identified from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science up to September 2025. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, and data were analyzed within a Bayesian framework.

Results

Nineteen trials involving 4,956 participants were included. For cognitive function, measured as a standardized mean difference (SMD) to harmonize various assessment scales, Pycnogenol showed the most significant effect and the highest probability of being the best in

SUBMITTER: Yang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12665759 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature