## 5 Conclusions and Future Research Directions  
This review, for the first time, has collected data on the ethnomedial properties of salt-tolerant plants concerning neurological disorders and overall mental health, as well as on the existing scientific reports of their in vitro and in vivo experiments. Sixteen species from nine different plant families have been reported to possess in vitro neuroprotective properties, with the Chenopodiaceae and Juncaceae families being the most represented. This includes _Salicornia_ sp., _Juncus_ sp. and _Limonium_ sp., which have been the focus of multiple studies, indicating their significance in the context of neuroprotection, with the inhibition of cholinesterase being the main biochemical target. Conversely, only six plant species from five different families were tested in vivo, with the Apocynaceae family being the most studied, including _A. venetum_ and _C. gigantea_. Juncunol, the only pure compound, was isolated from _J. acututs_ but was tested solely for its in vitro cholinesterase inhibitory properties. Additionally, the transition from traditional use to scientific validation is scarce, being exclusive to _P. major_, which underscores a substantial gap in this field. This oversight highlights a promising area for future research, encompassing:  
**Targeted Exploration of Traditionally Used Species:** A priority for future research should be the systematic screening of salt-tolerant plants traditionally used for neuroprotective effects. This involves cataloguing species cited in ethnobotanical records and subjecting them to a phased approach of in vitro, in vivo, and eventually clinical testing. Such an approach can help prioritize species with the most promising therapeutic potential. **Bioassay-guided Fractionation:** For species demonstrating significant activity in preliminary screenings, bioassay-guided fractionation should be employed to isolate and identify active compounds. This process involves separating extracts into fractions, testing each fraction for activity, and isolating bioactive molecules for further characterization and testing. **In Vivo Validation of Traditional Uses:** Species that have been traditionally used for neurological conditions but have not been scientifically validated require rigorous in vivo testing. These studies should aim to replicate traditional use scenarios to the extent possible, providing a direct link between traditional knowledge and scientific evidence. **Mechanistic Studies and Pathways Elucidation:** For species and compounds showing promising neuroprotective effects, detailed mechanistic studies are essential. Investigating how these plants or their constituents interact with neurological pathways, influence neurogenesis, modulate neurotransmitters, or protect against neurodegeneration can provide insights into their potential therapeutic roles. **Integration of Traditional Knowledge and Modern Pharmacology:** Bridging traditional ethnomedical practices with contemporary pharmacological research can offer novel insights and approaches to neuroprotection. This includes respecting and integrating the knowledge of indigenous and local communities into research processes, ensuring that such collaborations are ethically grounded and mutually beneficial. **Adaptation of Clinical Research Models:** Given the unique nature of traditional medicine practices, adapting clinical research models to better capture the complexity and holistic nature of these treatments is necessary. This may involve designing clinical trials that can accommodate the multifaceted interventions typical of traditional medicine, including combination therapies and complex treatment regimens. **Sustainability and Ethical Considerations:** As this research progresses, it is crucial to maintain a focus on sustainability and ethics, ensuring that plant resources are used responsibly and that traditional knowledge is respected and protected.