SONALIKA T.G., VIDYA N., VEDADHARWIN R.M., VEENA KRISHNADAS, NABAMI PAUL, PRERANA NIKHIL, ARIJITHA SREE REDDY AND SUPHIYA PRAVEEN
Abstract
Alice in Wonderland Syndrome (AIWS) is a rare neuropsychiatric disorder based on transient visual distortions of size, distance, and time perception. Although there is growing evidence from neuroimaging and clinical studies, the underlying physiological mechanisms are still not well understood. Emerging research suggests that cortical spreading depression, thalamocortical dysrhythmia, and neurotransmitter abnormalities, notably in the serotonergic and glutamatergic pathways, may play a role in this condition. This review proposes a neuro-herbal hypothesis indicating that Hypericum perforatum (St. Johnâs Wort), known for its serotonergic properties and anti-inflammatory effects, might correct cortical and thalamic dysregulation linked with AIWS. Its active components, hyperforin, hypericin, and quercetin, allow it to perform a range of functions, including blocking serotonin reuptake, regulating NMDA receptors, exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and promoting neurovascular health. This paper presents a novel conceptual model that connects herbal neurotherapeutics to perceptual neuroscience by integrating the current research in neurobiology and pharmacology, and it outlines a research plan for validation.