Abstract

PHARMACOLOGICAL IMPACT OF VARIOUS HERBS IN THE TREATMENT OF ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

Mudassir Ali*, Dr. Manish Kumar Shakya and Dr. Shalini Sawhney

Abstract

Interest in alternative therapy alternatives has increased due to the rising incidence of anxiety and depression globally, and medicinal plants are showing promise as a supplement or substitute for traditional pharmaceutical medicines. The potential of medicinal plants with anxiolytic and depressive qualities is examined in this review, which also highlights the active ingredients, mechanisms of action, and clinical effectiveness of these herbs. Numerous studies have been conducted on the potential benefits of various herbs for treating anxiety and depression, including Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort), Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower), Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender), Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi), Valeriana officinalis (Valerian), and Rhodiola rosea (Golden Root). These herbs provide a variety of advantages, such as improved mood, stress reduction, cognitive enhancement, and improved sleep regulation. Many of these have less adverse effects than traditional medications like SSRIs and benzodiazepines, and pre-clinical and clinical trials have shown their promise in reducing the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Notwithstanding the encouraging outcomes, issues like inconsistent efficacy brought on by dose and preparation techniques and a lack of uniformity in herbal formulations still exist. Important factors to take into account when incorporating herbal remedies into conventional mental health therapy include drug-herb interactions and the requirement for further clinical studies. Nonetheless, their importance in contemporary healthcare is highlighted by the rising interest in natural and holistic approaches to mental health as well as the possible advantages of medicinal herbs. To enable the safe and efficient use of pharmaceuticals, further research is necessary to determine appropriate doses, safety profiles, and regulatory criteria.

Keywords: Anxiety, Depression, Medicinal herbs, Anxiolytic, Antidepressant and Clinical efficacy