A method is provided for conferring neuroprotection on a population of cells in a subject, the method including providing a polycyclic compound having a terminal phenolic group in a structure containing at least a second ring, the compound having a molecular weight of less than 1000 Daltons, the compound not including estrogen compounds including estrogen agonists. The compound may be administered in an effective dose to the population of cells so as to confer neuroprotection. Methods are further provided for treating a neurodegenerative disease in a subject that include providing an effective dose of a formulation containing the compound and administering the dose to the subject.