<p>Neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease which are progressive loss of neurons due to oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and long-term neuroinflammation. The approach of attacking these intertwined pathological processes has emerged as a major approach in identifying effective neurotherapeutics. In that regard, the use of ethnomedicine has immense potential. <i>Ficus virens</i> is a medicinal plant that is traditionally used and has drawn attention because of its wide range of pharmacological activities and high phytochemical composition. This review is an overall summary of botanical properties, ethnomedicinal properties, phytochemical composition and pharmacological functions of <i>Ficus virens</i>, with special consideration to neuroprotective properties. Bioactive constituents found in abundance in the plant include flavonoids, phenolics, and terpenoids, and they help in its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. <i>Ficus virens</i> has a neuroprotective effect, which is primarily mediated by the regulation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway, which increases the expression of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes and redox homeostasis. Moreover, it inhibits neuroinflammatory responses by suppressing the major signaling pathways such as the NF-ĸB signaling pathway and inhibits production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. The review also cites the experimental results of both in vivo and in vitro studies which show that <i>Ficus virens</i> has the capacity to inhibit oxidative damages, mediate apoptotic mechanisms, and enhance neuronal survival. New methods, such as network pharmacology and advanced delivery systems based on nanotechnology are also mentioned as possible means of improving its therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability, especially to overcome the problem of the BBB.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>