Stroke represents one of the main causes of disability and death worldwide. The pathological subtypes of
stroke are
ischemic stroke, the most frequent, and
hemorrhagic stroke. Nrf2 is a
transcription factor that regulates redox homeostasis. In stress conditions, Nrf2 translocates inside the nucleus and induces the transcription of
enzymes involved in counteracting oxidative stress, endobiotic and
xenobiotic metabolism, regulators of
inflammation, and others. Different natural compounds, including food and plant-derived components, were shown to be able to activate Nrf2, mediating an
antioxidant response. Some of these compounds were tested in
stroke experimental models showing several beneficial actions. In this review, we focused on the studies that evidenced the positive effects of natural bioactive compounds in
stroke experimental models through the activation of Nrf2 pathway. Interestingly, different natural compounds can activate Nrf2 through multiple pathways, inducing a strong
antioxidant response associated with the beneficial effects against
stroke. According to several studies, the combination of different bioactive compounds can lead to a better neuroprotection. In conclusion, natural bioactive compounds may represent new therapeutic strategies against
stroke.