Therapeutic mechanisms of icariin in intervertebral disc degeneration: A critical narrative review.

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), a primary cause of low back pain, involves complex pathological mechanisms. Current research emphasizes identifying strategies to mitigate degenerative processes and enhance intrinsic disc repair. Emerging evidence highlights the therapeutic potential of icariin (ICA) in promoting disc repair and delaying IDD progression. ICA exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory actions, oxidative stress mitigation, modulation of bone and collagen metabolism, and inhibition of ferroptosis and pyroptosis. This review synthesizes current research on ICA's therapeutic applications in IDD management.