Abstract: A process is provided for inhibition of neural damage associated with an ischemic event that includes the administration of anthocyanin compound to a subject. After allowing sufficient time for the anthocyanin compound to reach the situs of the ischemic event, inhibition of neural damage associated with the ischemic event occurs. Neural damage is further inhibited by administration of the anthocyanin compound in conjunction with an agent effective in and specifically including tissue plasminogen activator. The anthocyanin compound in specific embodiments is in pure form or a mixture of two or more anthocyanins, or anthocyanidins or aglycones thereof, with the mixture being a natural product extract. A composition is also provided that includes ananthocyanin compound to cause blood clot dissolution. The agent being in specific embodiments is tissue plasminogen activator or aspirin.