Abstract
Depression is a mental health disorder that develops as a result of complex psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinological disturbances. This disease presents with mood disturbances, persistent sadness, loss of interest and impaired cognition, which causes distress to the patient and significantly affects the ability to function and have a satisfying family, social and professional life. Depression requires comprehensive management, including pharmacological treatment. Because pharmacotherapy of depression is a long-term process associated with the risk of numerous adverse drug effects, much attention is paid to alternative therapy methods, including phytopharmacotherapy, especially in treating mild or moderate depression. Preclinical studies and previous clinical studies confirm the antidepressant activity of active compounds in plants, such as St. John’s wort, saffron crocus, lemon balm and lavender, or less known in European ethnopharmacology, roseroot, ginkgo, Korean ginseng, borage, brahmi, mimosa tree and magnolia bark. The active compounds in these plants exert antidepressive effects in similar mechanisms to those found in synthetic antidepressants. The description of phytopharmacodynamics includes inhibiting monoamine reuptake and monoamine oxidase activity and complex, agonistic or antagonistic effects on multiple central nervous system (CNS) receptors. Moreover, it is noteworthy that the anti-inflammatory effect is also important to the antidepressant activity of the plants mentioned above in light of the hypothesis that immunological disorders of the CNS are a significant pathogenetic factor of depression. This narrative review results from a traditional, non-systematic literature review. It briefly discusses the pathophysiology, symptomatology and treatment of depression, with a particular focus on the role of phytopharmacology in its treatment. It provides the mechanisms of action revealed in experimental studies of active ingredients isolated from herbal antidepressants and presents the results of selected clinical studies confirming their antidepressant effectiveness.
Keywords: depression, treatment, medicinal plants, herbal, antidepressant
1. Introduction
Depression is a major mood disorder presenting with a persistent feeling of sadness, debilitating low mood, impaired cognition and loss of interest. Depression has a profound effect on the functioning of the affected person, individually, biologically and socially. Depression involves deep sadness, hopelessness, sorrow, emptiness and despair. Over time, it may also involve an inability to experience pleasure, psychomotor dysfunction, changes in sleep and eating behaviours, difficulty concentrating and suicidal thoughts [1]. In fact, depression belongs to a heterogeneous group of diseases, broadly included in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) published by the World Health Organization (WHO). The current ICD-11 version distinguishes a few depressive disorders: single episode depressive disorder (moderate, without psychotic symptoms, or severe, with or without such symptoms) and recurrent depressive disorder (current episode moderate, without psychotic symptoms, or severe, with or without such symptoms, or recurrent depressive disorder currently in full remission, or unspecified recurrent depressive disorder). Moreover, there are other different forms of depression, such as dysthymic disorder (persistent depressive disorder), mixed depressive and anxiety disorder, other specified depressive disorders and unspecified depression [2].
As presented in this review, depression is currently one of the most important diseases of civilization and a significant public health problem. Therefore, it seems important to perform a periodic, comprehensive analysis focusing on the description of this disease and its therapeutic management options, taking into account phytopharmacotherapy, which is less popular in everyday clinical practice.
This paper aims to briefly summarize the most important issues concerning the epidemiology, pathophysiology, symptomatology and treatment of depression. It also discusses the importance of phytopharmacotherapy in treating this disease and provides an outline of the phytopharmacodynamics of medicinal plants with antidepressant activity, with particular emphasis on the importance of their anti-inflammatory effect. This narrative review employs the traditional, non-systematic literature review method (PubMed, Google Scholar databases) with the use of the following search terms and their combinations: “depression”, “epidemiology”, “pathophysiology”, “symptomatology”, “management”, “treatment”, “medicinal plants”, “phytopharmacotherapy”, “phytopharmacodynamics”. The selection of relevant articles for review based on their titles and abstracts by one author (LD) was supervised critically by the second author (KG). Both review articles and original full-text articles were taken into account, preferring search results from the last ten years, but also including older papers, which, according to the authors, introduced important information to the discussion. At the same time, the performed literature screening revealed some papers analogous to our forthcoming review, e.g., Pardhe et al. [3] or Martins and Brijensh [4] and others. These papers describe the phytopharmacodynamics of many different plants with antidepressant activity, mostly focusing on their effect on disturbances of neurotransmission in the CNS found in depression. However, we made efforts to prepare a comprehensive review, discussing phytopharmacotherapy of depression against the background of a broader introduction to the epidemiology, symptomatology and pathophysiology of this disease, focusing the description of phytopharmacodynamics also on other aspects less frequently addressed in other papers, such as the contribution of the anti-inflammatory properties to the antidepressant effect.
2. Epidemiology
According to the WHO (data as of 13 September 2021), depression affects 3.8% of the world’s population, including 5.0% of adults and 5.7% of adults over 60 years. Approximately 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression. The disease is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. More women are affected by depression than men [5]. A population-based study in Europe using data from 27 countries collected between 2013 and 2015 showed that the overall prevalence of the current depressive disorder is high (6.38%), with important variation across European countries, ranging from 2.58% in the Czech Republic to 10.33% in Iceland. Similarly to the WHO data, the study demonstrated higher depression prevalence in women (7.74%) compared to men (4.89%), with clear gender differences for all countries, except Finland and Croatia [6]. Estimates for Poland indicate that around 1.5 million people suffer from depression, and this disease affects approximately 3% of people of productive age (i.e., 766,000 adult Poles had at least one depressive episode in their lives) [7].
Outside Europe, the prevalence of depression is equally high. According to the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 8.1% of adults aged 18 and over had symptoms of anxiety disorder, 6.5% of depressive disorder and 10.8% of anxiety disorder or depressive disorder in the USA in 2019 [8]. In the Asia-Pacific region, the prevalence of 1-month major depression ranged from 1.3% to 5.5%, and rates of major depression ranged from 1.7% to 6.7% [9]. Ogbo et al. estimated the prevalence of depressive disorders in South Asia as high as 3.9%, 4.4% in Bangladesh, 3.9% in India, 3.0% in Pakistan, 4.0% in Nepal and 3.7% in Bhutan [10]. In Latin America and the Caribbean, depression affects 5% of the adult population. Moreover, six out of every ten people do not receive treatment [11]. In South Africa, an estimated 9.8% of the adult population experience major (clinical) depression at some point in their life [12]. The pooled prevalence of depression among older adults in Africa was estimated to be even higher, reported at 26.3% [13]. In Australia, 9.4% of males aged 16–85 and 12.8% of females of the same age experienced a depressive episode in their lives [14].
Thus, it should be concluded that depression is a serious disease of civilization. As early as 2006, the WHO estimated that depression would cause the second largest increase in morbidity after cardiovascular diseases and pose a significant public health challenge [15].
3. Pathophysiology
There are some biological (including genetic abnormalities, microbiome disturbances, inflammatory factors, stress and dysfunction of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and the kynurenine pathway), psychological and social determinants of depression. Depression may also secondarily develop in the course of many somatic or mental diseases. In fact, depression, or collectively named depressive disorders, cannot be explained by a single theory since many variables are involved in the entity’s initiation and sustainment. This paper does not provide a detailed description of the pathophysiology of depression, which can be found in numerous reviews on this issue. Only selected aspects of the pathophysiology of depression are briefly mentioned below.
There are some biological theoretical frameworks for the explanation of the onset of depression. The most common biochemical, neurophysiological explanation for depression is the deficit of monoamines (serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine), which play a key role in important life-regulating functions (appetite, sleep, memory, learning, temperature regulation, social behaviour). The insufficiency of these monoamine neuromodulators in definite structures of the central nervous system is considered to be responsible for the development of depression [16]. This monoamine hypothesis of depression was historically the first theory proposed by Joseph Schildkraut in the 1960s and was based on the successful use of iproniazid (a monoamine oxidase inhibitor) and imipramine (a monoamine neuromodulator reuptake inhibitor) in the treatment of depression [17,18,19]. This theory is consistent with clinical observations—designed tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine neuromodulator reuptake inhibitors have confirmed the important role of imbalance and neuromodulator deficiency. For many years, the monoamine theory was the basic paradigm setting the ground rules in the treatment of depression.
Moreover, the stress-induced overactivity of the HPA axis was also revealed to be involved in the pathophysiology of depression. Significant correlations between measures of stress and depressive behaviour and between cortisol levels and depressive behaviour were found in experimental studies [20]. Influencing the HPA axis and reducing its activity may become another therapeutic option in treating depression [21]. This direction seems to be particularly interesting and promising, especially considering the secondary relationship between the activity of the HPA axis and the gut microbiota. It is believed that the gut microbiota can influence the HPA axis function through the activity of cytokines, prostaglandins or bacterial antigens of various microbial species [22].
Also, both experimental and clinical studies indicate that inflammatory processes may play a causal role in the development of depressive illness.
There is growing evidence that immune system disturbances are involved in the development of depression. Various immune cytokines released during systemic, “low grade” and self-sustaining inflammation have been found to be implicated in the pathophysiology of depression, including interleukins (IL)-1, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10; interferon-gamma (IFN-γ); C-reactive protein (CRP); tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α); and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) [23,24].
The peripherally released cytokines may pass the blood–brain barrier, activating glial cells and leading to a neuroinflammatory process contributing to brain damage [24,25]. There is also evidence that central neurotransmission disturbances are associated with secondary disturbances concerning relevant cytokines, e.g., serotonin deficiency, contributing to the feeling of sadness, guilt and worthlessness and disturbed appetite related to Il-6, Il-18, TNF-α and CRP abnormalities. Sociability dysfunction, due to lower dopamine levels, was demonstrated to correlate with the disturbances within INF-γ, Il-17, Il-33 and CCR6 and impaired functioning of Th1 and Th17 cells. Some symptoms depend on multiple neurotransmitters, such as psychomotor retardation (manifested by INF-γ, TNF-α, Il-1β and Il-6 disturbances) regulated by serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and glutamate [26]. It is noteworthy that antidepressant treatment affects the level of cytokines. A meta-analysis of 32 clinical studies by Więdłocha et al. [27] demonstrated significant decreases in IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 in major depressive disorder (MDD) subjects after antidepressant treatment. In the case of IL-1ß, the decrease was significant exclusively for SSRI drugs. Moreover, the activation of the kynurenine pathway and reduced tryptophan levels correlate with inflammation-induced depression, as the kynurenine pathway is believed to precipitate depressive symptoms by depleting brain serotonin [28]. Multiple endogenous and environmental factors appear to increase the risk of developing depression and seem to be associated with systemic inflammation; these include psychosocial stressors, poor diet, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, altered gut permeability, atopy, dental caries, sleep and vitamin D deficiency [29]. Oxidative stress (OS) is a supplementary mechanism involved in the pathophysiology of depression because OS is closely related to the inflammatory process. In the course of an inflammatory process, positive reciprocal action is established—inflammatory mediators intensify the synthesis of free radicals (mainly reactive oxygen/nitrogen species), which in turn sustains inflammation and the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. The limbic brain regions (prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and amygdala) involved in mood and behaviour control are highly susceptible to oxidative damage. Previous studies mention the implication of OS in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, including depression [30,31]. Moreover, excessive and prolonged stress negatively impacts the immune system, which in turn affects the HPA axis. Both factors lead to neurological impairments in the brain, causing changes in mood and behaviour [32].
There is also a relationship between systemic inflammatory alterations and gut microbiota. The gut and brain are two structures connected at multiple levels. The microorganisms inhabiting the gut and their products are essential in this bidirectional communication, conforming to the microbiota–gut–brain (MGB) axis [33,34]. Depressed patients show significant changes to the gut microbiota (dysbiosis) in comparison to healthy patients, leading to a pro-inflammatory status and neuroinflammation, enhancing the HPA axis dysfunction and stress sensitivity in the brain and disrupting the gut–brain communication through the vagus nerve, hence contributing to the pathogenesis of MDD [35]. In addition, an altered immune status described in MDD is responsible for an enhanced bacterial translocation in the bloodstream, aggravating the systemic damage in depressed patients [36]. Moreover, there is growing evidence of an important role of gut microbiota in the production or degradation of multiple neurotransmitters, including serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine or gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) [37], defining the gut microbiota as a critical modulator of brain activity.
The contribution of reproductive hormones to mood has also been a focus of efforts to explain the detailed pathophysiology of depression. Recent longitudinal studies have found that women are more susceptible to higher levels of depressed mood during the menopausal transition than just before it starts, suggesting differences in the prevalence of depression in relation to the sex of the patients [38]. In addition, significant decreases in oestrogen production, an overall state of hypogonadism, stability in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis and elevated FSH are marks of menopause. The decreased circulating androgen levels associated with menopause have also been linked to the loss of libido, fatigue and an increase in depressive symptoms [39].
Family and twin studies have provided strong evidence for the involvement of genetic factors in the risk of depression. Twin studies have demonstrated that the heritability rate of depression is about 37%, and data from family studies indicate a two- to three-fold increase in the risk of depression in the first-degree offspring of depressed patients [40]. Heredity has also been shown to particularly affect severe forms of depression [41].
In most cases of depression, estimates indicate that about 50% of the causes are genetic, and about 50% are unrelated to genes (psychological or physical factors). Genetic background is especially suspected in patients whose parent or sibling has suffered from depression more than once (“recurrent depression”) and if the depression started relatively early in life (in childhood, teenage years or twenties). However, there is no one “depressive gene”. Some of the possible genetic causes include the role of polymorphisms in genes related to the neurotransmission of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, such as serotonin transporter gene variants that inhibit serotonin reuptake, leading to a deficiency of monoamines in the brain and thus predisposing to depression. Another possibility is a polymorphism in genes regulating nervous system development, leading to a deficiency in the number of neurons in the adult brain or in genes regulating anti-inflammatory cytokines secreted in a compensatory manner to counteract inflammation. Further, genes that regulate circadian rhythms are another potential cause of genetic predisposition to depression by interfering with normal sleep and other bodily functions that depend on the circadian pacemaker.
Furthermore, in terms of genetic abnormalities, there are also links between genetic factors and depression; for example, abnormalities in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) appear to play an important role in depression. The “BDNF theory” of depression results from preclinical studies demonstrating that several forms of stress reduce BDNF-mediated signalling in the hippocampus, whereas chronic treatment with antidepressants increases BDNF-mediated signalling. Treatment with antidepressants increases several growth factors in the hippocampus that influence neurogenesis. These include BDNF (which promotes neuronal survival) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) [42]. However, there are also studies revealing that male mice with conditional forebrain deletions of BDNF or its receptor do not show depression-like behaviour [43]. Moreover, the action of BDNF may be brain region dependent—in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc), BDNF exerts a potent pro-depressant effect, and the direct infusion of BDNF into the VTA–NAc increases depression-related behaviours [44]. These results suggest that the current formulation of the BDNF hypothesis of depression development is too simplistic. BDNF-mediated signalling is involved in neuroplastic responses to stress and antidepressants, but these effects are both region- and antidepressant-specific [42]. In the neurobiology of depression, at the cellular and molecular levels, a number of signalling pathways and targets have been suggested as implicated in the pathogenesis of depression, including the above-mentioned neurotrophic factor and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) pathways. The functional consequences of these systems in the context of the damaging effects of chronic stress, including atrophy and loss of neurons and glia, were also observed in brain imaging and postmortem studies of depressed patients [45].
In addition, there are links between genes of the core region of the tissue compatibility system, as well as various gene polymorphisms and depression. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of genes involved in the tryptophan catabolism pathway are also being investigated [46,47,48].
An important role in the current description of depression is also played by epigenetics, i.e., the science dealing with inherited changes in gene expression unrelated to changes in the DNA sequence, examining the mechanisms of interaction between genes and their products in phenotype formation. Thus, epigenetics is the study explaining the cellular control of gene activity without changing the DNA sequence [49]. Epigenetic mechanisms include histone acetylation, which changes the structure of chromatin; cytosine methylation in DNA (in areas rich in the sequence of dinucleotides (cytosine-phosphate group-guanine)), which prevents gene transcription; and the influence of the non-coding microRNA binding complementary to mRNA, thus regulating translation [50]. Experimental studies indicate that genetic and environmental risk factors and their interactions induce aberrant epigenetic mechanisms targeting stress response pathways, neuronal plasticity and other behaviourally relevant pathways involved in major depression. The role of epigenetics in depression pathogenesis would explain the differences in the incidence of this disease in monozygotic twins. The involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in depression pathogenesis also offers an explanation of largely inconsistent genetic association studies of depression, for example, by undermining the transcriptional impact of DNA sequence polymorphisms due to epigenetic modifications on those gene promoters [42,51].
In addition, growing clinical data indicate that the analysis of epigenetic changes in patients with depressive disorders can be not only a marker of clinical improvement, but also a predictor of response to pharmacological treatment. It is suggested that the use of histone deacetylase inhibitors (natural or synthetic small molecules that can inhibit the activity of deacetylases and affect the availability of chromatin for transcription factors) may become a novel method of treating depression and other affective disorders [52].
Finally, the description of the pathophysiology of depression also takes into account social and psychological issues. According to attachment theory, depression is determined by a person’s inability to establish strong and long-lasting affective bonds with other people. The attachment model postulates that vulnerability to depression stems from early experiences that did not meet the child’s need for security, care and comfort, as well as the current state of their intimate relationships. The links between secure attachment and depression also appear to be mediated by the development of maladaptive beliefs or schemas [16]. Complex and incompletely understood psychological and social maladjustment can result in anaclitic depression, which arises from feelings of loneliness and abandonment, and introjective depression, which stems from a sense of failure and worthlessness [53].
There are also studies focusing on the importance of circadian rhythms and its main mediator, melatonin, in the onset and development of the disease [54]. Based on this hypothesis, some melatonin receptor agonists (ramelteon, tasimelteon) have been introduced into clinical practice in the treatment of sleep disturbances, and those acting additionally as serotonergic antagonists (agomelatine), which display antidepressant properties [55].
To sum up, the pathophysiology of depression is multifactorial, and the treatment of this mental illness remains a challenge. Many causative, interrelated factors are implicated in depression pathogenesis, as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1.
The main pathomechanisms of depression. The main structures associated with the pathogenesis of depression are the prefrontal cortex and the limbic system (including the hippocampus and the amygdala). According to the comprehensive, psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinological theory of the development of depression, this disease results from the action of multiple exogenous and endogenous factors. Details are given in the text. (HPA—hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis; 5HT—5-hydroxytryptamine; serotonin; NA—noradrenaline; DA—dopamine).
To underline its complexity, a “psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinological” term has been introduced to describe depression [56]. The main pathomechanisms of depression have focused on impaired monoamine function, decreased monoamine production, malfunction of the secondary messenger system or changes in other neurotransmissions. A significant role in the pathogenesis of depression is also attributed to inflammation and oxidative stress, which exert a major influence, affecting the proper functioning of the brain. Additional attention has also been given to endocrine abnormalities (excessive cortisol levels) or impaired neurogenesis through reduced levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor. The role of abnormal circadian rhythm is also highlighted [15].
4. Symptomatology
Depression manifests itself in a variety of both somatic and psychological symptoms. The disease also has a huge impact on the social and professional functioning of the patient. The typical psychological symptoms of depression include continuous low mood or sadness, with a dominant feeling of hopelessness, helplessness and guilt, feeling worried and/or anxious, poor concentration, lack of motivation to undertake everyday activities and loss of previous interests. In addition, patients with depression may feel overwhelmed, restless or angry and lack confidence. The somatic symptoms include sleep abnormalities, such as insomnia or hypersomnia (many patients experience early morning awakenings; there are also patients who tend to feel sleepy during the day), changes in appetite or body weight (usually reduced, but sometimes increased), feelings of low energy or adynamia, low sex drive (loss of libido), changes in the menstrual cycle and constipation. Social symptoms of depression include avoiding contact with friends and participating in fewer social activities; neglecting hobbies and interests; and difficulties at home, work or family life as a result of chronic emotional disorders affecting the ability to maintain family contacts and professional activity. Usually, depressive patients may also present altered behaviour, such as staying in rather than going out and being less productive at school or work. Depression may also take on an atypical form, manifesting itself by increased mood reactivity (i.e., mood brightens in response to positive events) and increased appetite; sleeping longer; leaden paralysis (i.e., heavy, leaden feelings in arms or legs); and interpersonal rejection sensitivity (not limited to episodes of mood disturbance), resulting in significant social or occupational impairment [57]. Depending on the number and severity of the above-mentioned symptoms, depression can be mild, moderate or severe, with possible suicide attempts. As an aside, it should also be mentioned that depression in some patients may be “masked”, especially in the form of purely somatic disorders in the elderly [58,59,60]. Noteworthy, increased alcohol dependence was demonstrated in the course of depression—the prevalence of depression among alcohol-dependent persons is high (estimated at 63.8%) [61].
5. Treatment—Pharmacotherapy and Non-Pharmacological Management of Depression
The treatment of depression involves both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods, including, in particular, techniques of therapeutic psychotherapeutic influence. The concept of “collaborative care” is the basis for the comprehensive treatment of depression. Psychological therapy should be the main treatment for mild depression or complementary to pharmacological treatment in other cases. There is strong evidence for the effectiveness of combined pharmacological antidepressants and cognitive behaviour therapy over the sole use of antidepressants in moderate to severe depression and chronic depression [62].
There are several classes of antidepressants used in the pharmacotherapy of this disorder, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (NRIs) and noradrenaline and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs). These drugs inhibit the transporters responsible for the reuptake of monoamines [63]. There are also other drugs with antidepressant effects (e.g., agomelatine, an MT1 I MT2 melatonin receptor agonist and serotonin 5HT2 receptor antagonist, or mirtazapine, an antagonist of adrenergic alpha2-autoreceptors, alpha2-heteroreceptors, 5-HT2 and 5-HT3 receptors) [63]. Recent antidepressants include desvenlafaxine, levomilnacipran, vortioxetine or vilazodone [64]. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are considered by general practitioners to be first-line drugs in the treatment of outpatients with depression. All antidepressants are regarded to be more effective than a placebo in adults treated for depression. In a systematic review and meta-analysis by Cipriani et al. [65], agomelatine, amitriptyline, escitalopram, mirtazapine, paroxetine, venlafaxine and vortioxetine were found to be more effective than other antidepressants, while fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, reboxetine and trazodone were found to be the least effective. However, larger differences in the efficacy and acceptability of individual antidepressants were revealed in head-to-head trials. For acceptability, agomelatine, citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, sertraline and vortioxetine were better tolerated than other antidepressants, while amitriptyline, clomipramine, duloxetine, fluvoxamine, reboxetine, trazodone and venlafaxine had the highest dropout rates [65].
Taking into account the clinical picture of depression, the response to initial treatment and the patient’s comorbidities, a precise choice of medication is made, and the effect of treatment is assessed after an appropriate period of follow-up. It should be stressed that antidepressants, like other pharmacological agents, exert some adverse drug reactions (ADRs). The most common ADRs observed in patients treated with SSRIs (e.g., paroxetine, sertraline, fluoxetine, escitalopram) at the primary care outpatient clinics were: gastrointestinal problems (in 17% of subjects), indigestion (22%), nausea (18%), diarrhoea (9%) and constipation (11%). Moreover, tiredness (in 45% of subjects), dizziness (24%), hypotension (15%), headache (34%) and blurred vision (22%) were also reported [66]. SSRIs are generally better tolerated than other antidepressants. The less common ADRs reported in the literature include extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), serotonin syndrome, QT prolongation, rash, birth defects, hyponatraemia and cataracts [67]. Tricyclic antidepressants show more pronounced side effects due to their complex mechanism of action and receptor non-selectivity. The most common adverse effects include constipation, dizziness and xerostomia. Due to their cholinolytic potential, TCAs may also produce blurred vision, constipation, xerostomia, confusion, urinary retention and tachycardia. Moreover, due to the blockade of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, orthostatic hypotension and dizziness may develop. TCA-induced histamine blockade (H1) contributes to sedation, increased appetite, weight gain and confusion. TCAs may also cause cardiovascular complications, including arrhythmias, such as QT prolongation, ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac death in patients with pre-existing ischaemic heart disease. In addition, treatment with TCAs may be associated with mild liver enzyme elevation [68].
Detailed recommendations for pharmacotherapy of depression are beyond the scope of this paper and can be found in numerous guidelines, including those published by psychiatric scientific societies [69,70,71,72], such as the Polish Society of Psychiatry [73].
Non-pharmacological interventions also play an important complementary role in the comprehensive treatment of depression. They include primarily psychotherapeutic techniques (e.g., cognitive behavioural therapy, naturopathic therapy, physical activity interventions or acupuncture) [74,75]. Some studies demonstrate the benefits of some dietary supplements on depressed mood. They are based on the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), combining eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and probiotics, which is in line with the assumption that inflammation and dysfunction of the gut–brain axis are pathogenetic elements of depression [76]. Other highly promising dietary interventions studied for potential use in depressive patients involve a specific group of nutrients (vitamins, polyphenols and caffeine), foods (fish, nuts, fruit seeds and vegetables, coffee/tea and fermented products) or dietary supplements (such as S-adenosylmethionine, acetylcarnitine, creatine, amino acids, etc.) [77]. In severe cases of depression refractory to classical pharmacological treatment, advanced non-pharmacological techniques, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), are also used [78,79]. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses demonstrated that both techniques are effective in depression treatment, with ECT superior compared to rTMS. Although ECT was the most efficacious, it was the least tolerated treatment, while rTMS was the best-tolerated treatment for MDD [80,81].
6. Depression Phytopharmacotherapy as an Alternative to Classical Antidepressant Treatment/Examples of Preparations and General Reasons for Their Antidepressant Effect
There is now an upward trend in the number of prescriptions for antidepressants globally. The number of prescriptions for antidepressants in England has almost doubled over the past decade. As many as 70.9 million prescriptions for antidepressants were registered in 2018, up from 36 million in 2008 [82]. From 2009–2010 through 2017–2018, the proportion of adults treated with antidepressants also increased in the USA. According to an analysis by the National Center for Health Statistics, in 2017, the percentage of the US population over the age of 12 years who had taken antidepressants in the past month was estimated at 12.7% [83]. According to “The state of mental health in America 2022” [84], 15.08% of youth experienced a major depressive episode in the past year, and 24.7% of adults with a mental illness reported an unmet need for treatment. European data also indicate high use of antidepressants. In a large general population study from 27 European countries that measured antidepressant use and regularity of use, 7.2% of participants reported taking antidepressants in the past year. There were large differences in the prevalence of antidepressant use between countries, ranging from 15.7% in Portugal to 2.7% in Greece. The top five European countries in terms of the use of antidepressants in the last 12 months were Portugal, Lithuania, Malta, the UK and France. In contrast, the five countries with the lowest use of antidepressants in the last 12 months were Greece, Germany, Bulgaria, Cyprus and the Czech Republic. In this respect, Poland was ranked 19th among the 27 countries assessed. In contrast, the countries with the highest proportion of patients regularly taking antidepressants were Sweden, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Finland and the Netherlands. The countries with the lowest percentage of patients regularly using antidepressants were Bulgaria, Romania, the Czech Republic, Lithuania and Slovakia. In this respect, Poland also took 19th place in the ranking (out of all 27 countries assessed) [85]. It should be strongly emphasized that antidepressants are drugs that produce significant, numerous adverse drug reactions, especially in patients using polypharmacy. The most common adverse effect reported by patients was weight gain after TCAs, followed by sexual dysfunction for SSRIs, nausea or vomiting for monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and headache for SNRIs [86]. Notably, TCAs were associated with a wide range of ADRs, such as toxic delirium, grand mal seizures, increased liver enzymes, urinary retention, flushing or cardiovascular disorders (i.e., mainly orthostatic collapse). Psychological and neurological ADRs were the most common in SSRI-treated patients, followed by gastrointestinal, dermatological and endocrine/electrolyte reactions, with agitation, hyponatraemia, increased liver enzymes, nausea and serotonin syndrome as leading adverse effects [87]. In the study by Uher et al. [88], ADRs induced by nortriptyline or escitalopram were assessed on the basis of the Antidepressant Side-Effect Checklist and the psychiatrist-rated UKU Side Effect Rating Scale. Dry mouth (74%), constipation (33%) and weight gain (15%) were associated with nortriptyline treatment. Diarrhoea (9%), insomnia (36%) and yawning (16%) were more common during treatment with escitalopram. Problems with urination and drowsiness predicted discontinuation of nortriptyline, while diarrhoea and decreased appetite were the main causes of discontinuation of escitalopram.
Given the high use of antidepressants and their possible side effects, other treatment options for depression are being explored, including the use of herbal medicines. Therefore, phytopharmacotherapy is a promising therapeutic option that appears to be a safer alternative, particularly for patients with mild depressive disorders or for seasonal dysthymia (“winter depression”).
For centuries, people have tried to treat depression with available remedies of natural origin used as part of traditional medicine. In different cultures and geographic regions, certain medicinal plants have been known and used to treat many different conditions. Estimates indicate that of the more than 300,000 seed plants, approximately 60% have been used for their medicinal properties [89]. In some regions (especially Africa, South America and Asia), the use of traditional medicine systems (including medicinal plants) based on social and ethnic continuity and empirical findings is the main therapeutic approach. Ethnomedicine (ethnopharmacology) has also distinguished medicinal plants as effective in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders [90]. In summary, medicinal plants (“herbs”) contain various pharmacologically active compounds in their tissues: alkaloids, glucosides, essential oils, fatty oils, mucilages, tannins, gums, flavonoids, iridoids and bitters, saponins and others that cannot be separated into individual compounds. This fact distinguishes the mode of action of phytopharmaceuticals from classical, synthetic drugs—the pharmacological action mediated by phytopharmaceuticals is not mediated by just one compound, but is the result of the synergistic and polyvalent, complementary action of many active substances. On the contrary, the “mainstream” pharmacodynamic effect in classical pharmacology is based on an isolated, single active compound. A synergistic effect is defined as an effect produced by a combination of substances that is greater than would be expected if the combined action of the individual components were considered [15,91,92]. A complementary concept is the theory of the polyvalent action of phytopharmacological ingredients, which assumes that herbal extracts can exert a wide range of biological activity due to the variety of chemical compounds present in herbs, each of which produces different effects [15,93].
The synergistic and polyvalent effects of herbal compounds in the treatment of depression and other mental disturbances are becoming increasingly important. In a study by Kessler et al. [94], 54% of patients suffering from depression reported using herbal medicines in the past 12 months to treat their disorder. Similar to this finding, it was revealed that 44% of psychiatric inpatients hospitalized for acute care for various psychiatric disturbances had used herbal medicines in the previous 12 months [95]. Despite the popularity of herbal medicines in the treatment of depression, as well as other psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety or insomnia), research on phytopharmaceuticals in neuropsychology is not as advanced as for synthetic drugs. For the most part, the results of beneficial effects of phytopharmaceuticals in the treatment of nervous system disorders have been obtained in vitro or in preclinical studies in laboratory animals, with an abundance of clinical studies validating the efficacy and safety of phytopharmaceuticals in patients [15,96]. There is also well-established use of herbal medicines containing active substances dating back more than ten years, and their efficacy and safety have been well-established, so the use of such preparations is legally possible based on the results obtained from a review of the scientific literature. In addition, there is also traditional use of herbal medicines containing plants or parts or extracts of plants that have been traditionally used for centuries, and their administration for various clinical conditions is based on empirical evidence, which means that they are acceptably safe, although they do not have a precisely defined level of efficacy [97,98].
Most herbal medicines used in the phytopharmacology of depression are over-the-counter (OTC) preparations or dietary supplements and are considered safe and induce fewer ADRs compared to conventional medicines, especially TCAs (cholinolytic symptoms, sexual dysfunction, insomnia, withdrawal problems) [15,99,100,101]. Examples of OTC drugs or dietary supplements used for depression in Poland (the country of residence of the authors of this review) are summarized in Table 1. The examples of preparations listed there indicate that the most popular antidepressant preparations in Poland are based on St. John’s wort and saffron crocus, with the possible addition of lemon balm, B vitamins or amino acids that are sources of monoamines (tryptophan, phenylalanine).
Table 1.
Selected antidepressants (OTC drugs or dietary supplements) available in Poland.
| Brand Name | Marketing Authorization Holder | Pharmaceutical Form | Active Ingredients (per Dose) |
Dosage | Declared Effects by MAH |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIRALO | USP Zdrowie, Warszawa | Capsules | 100 mg Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) extract (7 mg withanolides), 28 mg saffron stigma extract (0.84 mg crocin and 0.56 mg safranal), 100 mg lemon balm extract (2 mg rosemary acid) |
1 capsule a day | Improves mood, helps maintain a state of relaxation, contributes to emotional balance. |
| JASNUM MOOD | USP Zdrowie, Warszawa | Capsules | 30 mg saffron stigma extract, vitamin B6 (1.4 mg), vitamin B12 (100 μg) | 1 capsule a day | Alleviates hormonal disorders during menopause that cause mood swings. |
| DEPRIBON | Bonimed, Żywiec |
Capsules | 150 mg of St. John’s wort extract, 50 mg of Ginseng root extract |
1 capsule a day | Improves mood. |
| INTRACTUM HYPERICI | Phyto Pharm, Klęka |
Liquid | Ethanol extract of Hypericum perforatumL., herba (fresh St. John’s wort) Hyperici herbae recentis intractum (1:1). Extraction solvent: ethanol 96% (v/v) | 4 times a day, 5 mL of the preparation in a small amount of liquid. The recommended treatment time is 4 weeks. | Traditional herbal medicine used to relieve temporary states of nervous exhaustion. It also relieves depression. |
| DEPRESANUM | Novascon, Warszawa |
Coated tablets | Inositol 100 mg, L-tryptophan 100 mg, saffron flower extract 15 mg, vitamin B6 0.210 mg, folic acid 100 μg | 1 tablet 2 times a day during a meal | Helps maintain a positive mood, reduces fatigue and tiredness, improves nervous system function. |
| SZAFRACEUM | Lekam, Warszawa |
Tablets | Saffron extract 30 mg, inositol 100 mg, L-tryptophan 50 mg, ginseng root extract 50 mg, vitamin B6 1.3 mg, vitamin B2 1.3 mg, vitamin B12 2.5 µg, folic acid 200 µg | 1 tablet a day | Helps maintain a positive mood, supports the maintenance of emotional balance. |
| DEPRELLA | Organic Pharma, Warszawa | Capsules | L-tryptophan 150 mg, L-phenylalanine 150 mg, turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) 10:1–100 mg, saffron crocus extract 30 mg, vitamin D (cholecalciferol) 5 µg, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) 1.4 mg, vitamin B9 (pteroylmonoglutamic acid) 200 µg, vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) 2.5 µg | 1 capsule a day | Improves mood and has an antidepressant effect by using the bio-potential of a harmonious combination of ingredients that support the production of neurotransmitters and happiness hormones and the transmission of nerve impulses. The composition is enriched with the addition of B vitamins, essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the maintenance of mental balance. |
| ALINESS | MedicaLine, Karczew |
Tablets | Cultivated saffron crocus extract (Crocus sativus) SafraSOL 30 mg, including crocin 3 mg, safranal 600 µg | 1–3 tablets a day during or after a meal with water | Improves mood, helps maintain emotional balance, improves libido, helps maintain comfort before and during the menstrual cycle. |
| HYPERHERBA | Labofarm, Starogard Gdański |
Tablets | 30 mg Hypericum perforatum L., herba (St. John’s wort) | 1 tablet 3 times a day with water | Traditionally used to relieve temporary symptoms of mental exhaustion. |
| DEPREMIN | Colfarm, Mielec |
Coated tablets | 612 mg of extract (in the form of a dry, quantified extract) from Hypericum perforatum L., herba (St. John’s wort), which corresponds to: 0.6 mg–1.8 mg of total hypericin expressed as hypericin, 36.72 mg–91.80 mg of total flavonoids per rutin, not more than 36.72 mg of hyperforin Extraction solvent: ethanol 60% (v/v) | 1 tablet a day | Used in the short-term treatment of mild depressive disorders. |
| MAGNOLIAMAX | K2Pharm, s.r.o. Opava, Czech Republic |
Coated tablets | 350 mg of magnolia bark extract 6% (21 mg honokiol), black pepper extract—5 mg | 1 tablet a day | Supports restful sleep and helps maintain a good mood. Relieves fatigue and stress. |
Preparations with similar compositions are used in other countries. In general, commercially available OTC drugs or dietary supplements usually contain various nutraceuticals, such as vitamins (including vitamin D and vitamin B group); S-adenosyl methionine (considered the universal methyl donor in living organisms); amino acids (phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan); amino acids that are precursors of neurotransmitters (noradrenaline, serotonin); microelements (zinc, magnesium); and phytoceuticals (St. John’s wort, saffron crocus, turmeric, roseroot, lavender), often with the addition of adaptogenic ashwagandha and anxiolytic kava [102].
Unlike preparations in the Polish pharmaceutical market, foreign products are often enriched with omega-3 acids (e.g., EPA and DHA) because these nutrients can reduce inflammation in the brain, which may positively impact mood. Moreover, turmeric is rarely found in commercially available preparations popular in the Polish pharmaceutical market. Moreover, there is no preparation containing Piper methysticum (kava) in Poland due to the warnings issued by the European Safety Food Authority (ESFA) about the potential hepatotoxicity of kavalactones. Thus, kava cannot be a component of dietary supplements or OTC drugs in Poland, and its use in pharmaceuticals has been prohibited. However, later studies showed the hepatotoxicity of kava preparations obtained by extracting whole plants with organic solvents, while daily intake of kavalactones in the form of tablets obtained from a traditional aqueous plant extract was not harmful [103]. This resulted in the lifting of restrictive regulations on the import and trade of kava-based pharmaceutical products. Nowadays, kava trade is regulated by each country individually.
In the further part of our review, we discuss the phytopharmacodynamics of the following plants with antidepressant activity: St. John’s wort (SJW), saffron crocus, lemon balm, lavender, gingko, Korean ginseng, roseroot, magnolia bark, borage, brahmi and mimosa tree.
7. Side Effects of Herbal Antidepressants Discussed in This Review
The use of herbal antidepressant preparations is characterized by greater safety compared to classic antidepressants, and this issue is one of the main advantages of phytopharmacotherapy. These preparations, which mostly have the legal status of dietary supplements, are available without a prescription and are perceived to be safe. However, all medicinal agents, including herbal preparations, have potential side effects. As with other drugs, the risk of adverse drug reactions may be influenced by a user’s age, gender, genetics, nutrition status and concurrent disease states and treatments. In clinical practice, recognizing adverse effects of herbal medicine is not routine, and their reporting is less frequent compared to synthetic drugs [104].
Among herbal antidepressants, the most recognized side effects are described for St. John’s wort, perhaps due to the fact that St. John’s wort (SJW) preparations, next to saffron-containing medicines, are the most popular plant antidepressants. The most commonly reported adverse reactions for SJW are gastrointestinal symptoms, allergic reactions, dizziness/confusion, tiredness/sedation and dry mouth. Hyperesthesia and a syndrome of dyspnoea and hyperventilation with flushing headache, mydriasis, nausea, palpitations and tremor have been also reported. The majority of these reactions were generally considered to be mild, moderate or transient. [105,106,107]. Data from observational studies have indicated that adverse events may occur in 1%–3% of patients treated with SJW preparations [108]. In the case of SJW, there is also the possibility of triggering a manic phase in the course of bipolar disorder [109]. In addition, the phytopharmacologically active components of SJW (hypericin and hyperforin) are known inducers of cytochrome enzymes (CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6 and 3A4, 3A2, 3E1), as well as p-glycoprotein. Therefore, chronic use of St. John’s wort is associated with a risk of pharmacokinetic interactions at the biotransformation stage with drugs whose metabolism also occurs in the cytochrome isoenzymes mentioned [110,111,112,113]. Moreover, the most widely known, possibly serious adverse effect associated with SJW administration is a fatal increase in serotonin, which can possibly cause serotonin syndrome when coupled with certain antidepressants (SSRI) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. It is an example of a possible pharmacodynamic SJW interaction. Serotonin syndrome is known to manifest with hyperthermia, tachycardia hypertension, mydriasis and diaphoresis [105,106]. A detailed list of possible clinically significant drug interactions with SJW is presented in Table 2.
Table 2.
Clinically significant interactions of St. John’s wort with drugs.
| Drugs | Possible Mechanism of Interaction | Effect of Interaction on Drug |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacokinetic interactions | ||
| HIV protease inhibitors (indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir and saquinavir) |
Induction of CYP3A4 | Reduced blood concentrations with possible loss of HIV suppression |
| HIV non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (efavirenz, nevirapine) | Induction of CYP3A4 | Reduced blood concentrations with possible loss of HIV suppression |
| Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenobarbitone and phenytoin) | Induction of CYP3A4 | Reduced blood concentrations with risk of seizures |
| Oral contraceptives | Induction of CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 | Reduced blood concentrations with risk of unintended pregnancy and breakthrough bleeding |
| Oral anticoagulant-vitamin K antagonists (warfarin and phenprocoumon) | Induction of CYP2C9 | Reduced anticoagulant effect and need for increased dose |
| Cyclosporin | Induction of CYP3A4 and the transport protein P-glycoprotein | Reduced blood concentrations with risk of transplant rejection |
| Theophylline | Induction of CYP1A2 | Reduced blood concentrations and possible loss of control of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease |
| Digoxin | Induction of transport protein P-glycoprotein | Reduced blood concentrations and possible loss of control of heart rhythm or heart failure |
| Pharmacodynamic interactions | ||
| SSRI (citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine and sertraline) |
Increasing of serotonin concentrations | Increased serotonergic effects with risk of increased incidence of serotonin syndrome |
| Serotonin 5HT 1B/1D agonists (“Triptans”; (sumatriptan, naratriptan, Rizatriptan and zolmitriptan) |
Increasing of serotonin concentrations | Increased serotonergic effects with risk of increased incidence of serotonin syndrome |
The photosensitizing effect of St. John’s wort is also well known, which reasonably contraindicates the use of this type of preparation in summer, during high sunlight. On the other hand, the photosensitizing effect of hypericin provides a background for the use of this compound in photodynamic therapy [114,115]. As a side note, all these indications regarding the safety of SJW preparations have been the reason why dietary supplements and OTC monopreparations containing relatively high doses of dry St. John’s wort extract (tablets/capsules containing 160–425 mg) have been withheld from the Polish pharmaceutical market.
Saffron is used in foods and is generally regarded as safe when consumed in usual quantities. Ingestion of less than 1.5 g of saffron is nontoxic for human, and it is considered toxic when ingested with doses more than 5 g. The estimated lethal dose is about 20 g/day [116]. The data indicate that the frequency and types of adverse events reported for saffron used as antidepressant are similar to those reported for placebo and standard antidepressants (fluoxetine, citalopram) used as comparators. Spontaneous reports of adverse reactions associated with saffron include rash, flushing, hyperhidrosis, vomiting, malaise and insomnia. However, it must be emphasized that causality has not necessarily been established in all these cases [117].
Other plant antidepressants are also characterized by high safety of use. Lemon balm is generally well tolerated, having no relevant side effects, and only occasionally headache, vomiting, abdominal pain and nausea have been reported [118]. Further, no significant adverse effects associated with the use of lavender preparations in usually appropriate doses have been described [119]. In general, ginkgo administered in antidepressant preparations is also safe and well tolerated. The maximum recommended dose for ginkgo extract is 240 mg/day [120]. The reported gingko-induced adverse effects were mild and included headache, heart palpitations, gastrointestinal upset, constipation and allergic skin reactions [121]. However, it should be emphasized that the biologically active ingredients of gingko are inhibitors of the cytochrome CYP2C9 (important for the metabolism of selected oral anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs) and inducers of CYP2C19 (important for the metabolism of selected anticonvulsants). Therefore, patients treated with warfarin, diazepam or phenytoin should avoid gingko preparations due to the increased risk of bleeding or seizures, despite anticoagulant/anticonvulsant compliance [122]. Panax ginseng generally is well tolerated, and its adverse effects are mild and reversible and include nausea, diarrhoea, euphoria, insomnia, headaches, hypertension, hypotension, mastalgia and vaginal bleeding. However, it should be noted that biological compounds from Panax ginseng may interact with caffeine to cause hypertension, and it may decrease the effectiveness of warfarin. Concomitant use of Panax ginseng and the monoamine oxidase inhibitor phenelzine may result in manic-like symptoms. Ginseng also exerts hypoglycaemic activity; therefore, caution should be exercised in using ginseng products in patients with diabetes because of possible pharmacodynamic interactions with oral hypoglycaemic agents and insulin [123]. Roseroot is well tolerated, and characteristic adverse effects have not been described. Only a few reports have indicated that repeated doses of roseroot caused mild dizziness and gastrointestinal discomfort. However, it can be mildly stimulating for some people; therefore, taking roseroot late in the day should be avoided to prevent potential interference with sleep. Some sources suggest avoiding using roseroot in people with bipolar, hypomania or paranoia, and as a preventive measure, roseroot preparations should not be combined with coffee [124]. Moreover, the use of the main biologically active ingredients of magnolia bark (magnolol and honokiol) seems to be safe. No specific adverse effects have been described for these substances at a concentration of > 240 mg/kg b.w./day of magnolia bark extract. Intervention trials employing concentrated magnolia bark extract for up to 1 year did not report adverse effects. In conclusion, over the recent years, different food safety authorities evaluated magnolol and honokiol and considered them safe [125]. Data on the side effects of other plants discussed in this review are scarce, and the literature search does not indicate reporting significant disorders during their use. A Sayyah et al. study [126] did not demonstrate any significant differences between groups of patients treated with either 500 mg aqueous extract of borage or fluoxetine (20 mg/day). In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study aiming to determine the effect of brahmi on attention, cognitive processing and working memory in healthy elderly, no significant adverse effects were demonstrated during the trial in subjects treated with brahmi extract tablets containing either 300 or 600 mg compared to the placebo group [127]. Mimosa tree is considered safe for long-term use. Aqueous extract of mimosa tree was not found to produce any delirious symptoms, and the plant is regarded to be safe even at the dose 2000 mg/kg p.o. [128].
8. A Brief Description of the Phytopharmacodynamics of Plant-Derived Compounds with Antidepressant Activity with Particular Emphasis on Their Anti-Inflammatory Effect
There are several plants usually administered in depression phytopharmacotherapy. In the opinion of the authors of this review and based on literature data [15,90,93,96], several medicinal plants with great potential and a history of use in depression phytopharmacotherapy can be identified. They are listed in Table 3. The authors use their common names in this paper.
Table 3.
Latin and common names of medicinal plants whose antidepressant properties are discussed in this review (in alphabetical order).
| Scientific (Latin) Name | Common Name |
|---|---|
| Albizia julibrissin | Mimosa tree |
| Bacopa monnieri | Brahmi water hyssop |
| Crocus sativus | Saffron crocus |
| Echium amoenum | Borage |
| Ginkgo biloba | Gingko maidenhair tree |
| Hypericum perforatum | St. John’s wort (SJW) |
| Lavandula officinalis | Lavender |
| Magnolia officinalis | Magnolia bark houpu magnolia |
| Melissa officinalis | Lemon balm common balm balm mint |
| Panax ginseng | Korean ginseng |
| Rhodiola rosea | Roseroot golden root |
Classical pharmacotherapy of depression is still based on the monoamine theory and aims to correct the disturbed CNS neurotransmitter levels. In general, the detailed mechanisms by which medicinal plants exert antidepressant effects do not differ from those demonstrated for classic, pharmacological antidepressants. The evidence for their phytopharmacodynamics comes mainly from experimental studies and literature data reported within traditional medical systems, and pharmacopoeias support the use of some herbs in the treatment of depression. The description of the antidepressant activity of selected plant-derived compounds involves several mechanisms, including inhibition of monoamine reuptake; enhanced serotonin receptor binding and sensitization; monoamine oxidase inhibition; GABAergic effects (especially for plants exhibiting sedative and anxiolytic effects accompanying the antidepressant effect); complex, excitatory or inhibitory effects on various receptors (N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA), GABA, cholinergic, adrenergic, serotonergic, dopaminergic and opioid ones); and cannabinoid system effects [15,129,130,131,132]. In line with the complex, psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinological pathogenesis of depression, herbal compounds have also been found to affect the activity of the HPA axis and stimulate immunomodulatory activity, which seems to contribute significantly to their antidepressant effect. Considering the mechanism of action of medicinal plants with antidepressant activity, it should be noted once again that their antidepressant effect results from the comprehensive action of numerous active compounds (in line with the theory of polyvalence and synergistic action of plant-derived compounds mentioned above). Due to the complexity of the chemical composition of medicinal plants with antidepressant activity (the most important ingredients are listed in Table 4), the final effect depends on their synergistic action. Thus, unlike traditional synthetic antidepressants, the molecular mechanism of action of herbal preparations cannot be explained based on a separate analysis for individual compounds; instead, it is considered a result of the collective and simultaneous action of many active compounds co-occurring in the studied plant extract. In addition, possible differences in the composition of medicinal plants resulting from the plant sources (harvest from cultivation vs. from a natural stand) and seasonal fluctuations in the chemical composition of plants contribute to the difficulties in an unambiguous description of the phytopharmacodynamics of plant preparations. Moreover, although research on plant-based drugs provides an important source of new antidepressants, it faces numerous problems, including the procurement and authentication of plant material, implementation of high-throughput screening bioassays and scale-up of bioactive compounds with suspected antidepressant activity subjected to clinical assessment. The issues mentioned above pose a challenge to translational pharmacology and the detailed description of plant-derived preparations entering clinical trials [133,134].
Table 4.
Herbal antidepressants and their mechanisms of action (phytopharmacodynamics).
| Medicinal Plant and Its Commonly Used Parts |
Major Active Constituents | Mechanism of Action | Additional Effects on the Nervous System | References |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
St. John’s wort flowers leaves |
|
|
Neuroprotective; Improves cognitive functions | Composition: [179,180] Mechanisms: [181,182,183] |
|
Saffron crocus dried thread-like parts of the flower (stigmas) |
|
|
Anxiolytic Anti-inflammatory |
Composition: [184,185] Mechanisms: [186,187,188] |
|
Lemon balm leaves |
|
|
Anxiolytic Sedative Neuroprotective |
Composition: [189,190] Mechanisms: [191,192,193] |
|
Lavender flowers |
|
|
Anxiolytic Sedative |
Composition: [194,195] Mechanisms: [196,197,198] |
|
Roseroot root rhizomes |
|
|
Adaptogenic; Increases resistance to stress, reduces fatigue | Composition: [199,200] Mechanisms: [201,202,203] |
|
Ginkgo leaves |
|
|
Neuroprotective; Improves cognitive functions | Composition: [142,204] Mechanisms: [205,206,207] |
|
Korean ginseng root |
|
|
Adaptogenic; Increases resistance to stress, reduces fatigue, improves cognitive functions | Composition: [208,209] Mechanisms: [210,211,212] |
|
Borage leaves stems flowers |
|
|
Anxiolytic | Composition: [213,214] Mechanisms: [140,215,216] |
|
Brahmi leaves stems |
|
|
Adaptogenic-increases resistance to stress, improves cognitive functions | Composition: [217,218] Mechanisms: [219,220,221] |
|
Mimosa tree stem bark flowers |
|
|
Anxiolytic Improves sleep |
Composition: [222,223] Mechanisms: [224,225,226] |
|
Magnolia bark tree bark |
|
|
Anxiolytic | Composition: [227,228] Mechanisms: [229,230,231] |
Figure 2 presents the essential elements of the phytopharmacodynamics of antidepressant medicinal plants.
Figure 2.
The summary of the elements of the mechanisms of action of plants with antidepressant activity. According to the theory of synergistic and polyvalent action of active ingredients contained in medicinal plants (symbolically marked in the figure with selected chemical formulas), the antidepressant effect is the result of the action of numerous co-occurring active compounds. The pharmacodynamics of these compounds involve similar mechanisms to those attributed to synthetic antidepressants. However, unlike synthetic antidepressants, an important aspect of the antidepressant effect of herbal preparations is also their anti-inflammatory action. Details are given in the text. (HPA—hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis; 5HT—5-hydroxytryptamine; serotonin; NA—noradrenaline; GABA—gamma-aminobutyric acid; α—adrenergic; M—muscarinic; D—dopaminergic; CB—cannabinoid).
In addition to the direct effect of active, plant-derived compounds on correcting the disturbances of CNS neurotransmission, an immunomodulatory effect is also considered important to their antidepressant activity. There is evidence that antidepressant plants discussed in this review exert anti-inflammatory effects, also involving CNS. The pathophysiology of depression, as mentioned in the brief description above, is also associated with immune disturbances, releasing pro-inflammatory mediators and increased oxidative stress in the CNS. Hence, the alleviation of immunological disturbances may contribute to an antidepressant effect. The anti-inflammatory effects of plants with antidepressant activity examined in this review are briefly discussed below.
Brahmi has been used for nearly 3000 years by Ayurvedic medical professionals for Alzheimer’s disease, improving memory, anxiety, allergic conditions and irritable bowel syndrome. It is a medicinal herb exerting an anti-inflammatory effect due to the selective inhibition of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme. Therefore, it is used in relieving acute pain and inflammation due to a reduction in COX-2-mediated prostanoid mediators. In addition, brahmi helps manage diseases involving chronic systemic and brain inflammation driven by the innate immune system. The administration of brahmi is associated with cognitive enhancing (nootropic) activity, including improving free recall, observed after prolonged intake (>3 months) due to the alleviation of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress associated with ageing. Furthermore, brahmi use is associated with the down-regulation of NO and pro-inflammatory cytokines: TNF-a and Il-6, and elevation of Il-10 in stimulated human blood cells [135,136]. Moreover, an additional element of the anti-inflammatory action of brahmi in the brain is the inhibition of signalling enzymes associated with CNS inflammatory pathways: caspase-1 and matrix metalloproteinase-3, as well as caspase-3, which has been shown to cleave protein tau, an early event in the development of Alzheimer’s disease [136]. The brahmi extract solution demonstrated antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging method [137]. It was also shown in an experimental study that brain antioxidant status improved in cigarette smoke-exposed rats treated with an extract from brahmi [138,139].
Current pharmacological studies show that borage has analgesic, anxiolytic, antibacterial and antiviral properties. A decoction and hydroalcoholic extracts of borage showed promising antioxidant activity evaluated by DPPH and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) assays, which are commonly applied to determine total antioxidative potential [140]. Borage also shows anti-inflammatory properties. An in vitro study revealed that macrophages treated with a borage hexane extract modulated their inflammatory mode by reducing NO secretion and COX-2 activity and decreasing IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α cytokine levels [141].
Ginkgo is another medicinal plant with antidepressant potential. However, it also has anticancer, antidementia, antidiabetic, antiobesity, antilipidemic, antimicrobial, antiplatelet, hepatoprotective, anti-ageing and neuroprotective effects. It is frequently employed to treat neurological, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, including tardive dyskinesia [142]. This plant also offers immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. An experimental study evaluated the protective potential of ginkgo extract against hippocampal neuronal injury induced by trimethyltin (TMT). A significant decrease in oxidative stress, as evidenced by reductions in malondialdehyde (MDA) and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) and marked suppression of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1α, 1L-6), was demonstrated in rats treated with the ginkgo extract [143]. In another experimental in vitro study using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treated cultured primary rat microglia, the ginkgo extract significantly inhibited the release of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and differentially regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β). Thus, it can be concluded that ginkgo showed anti-neuroinflammatory activity [144]. In macrophage culture, the ethanol extract of ginkgo flowers and the chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions significantly decreased nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and PGE2 production [145]. Ethanol and acetone extracts from ginkgo added into the culture of human endothelial cells also inhibited ROS production and decreased soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and E-selectin adhesion molecule levels [146].
Another medicinal plant used in the additional treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, insulin resistance, cancer and other degenerative processes commonly developing with age is Korean ginseng. The administration of preparations from this plant offers several health benefits related to anti-inflammatory and decreasing oxidative stress effects associated with ageing. Korean ginseng bioactive compounds reduce the effects of these conditions, mainly due to the suppression of the COX-2 and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) enzymes. They can also decrease the production of malonaldehyde and increase the expression of antioxidants (glutathione and superoxide dismutase). Furthermore, the chronic administration of preparations from Korean ginseng resulted in the down-regulation of TNF-α, IL-1b and IL-6. Active compounds from Korean ginseng also caused an increase in cellular proliferation; an increase in the activity of free radical scavengers; and the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1a) [147,148]. In vitro studies also reported ginseng saponins as NO synthesis inhibitors in LPS- and IFN-γ-induced murine microglial cells [149].
Lavender is used for restlessness, insomnia, nervousness and depression. It is also administered for various digestive complaints, including dyspepsia, loss of appetite, vomiting and nausea. Lavender essential oils were also studied in macrophage cell lines as an in vitro cell culture model for evaluation of its potential efficacy in LPS-stimulated inflammation. It was demonstrated that compounds constituting the lavender essential oil modulate the activity and action of the NF-κB signalling pathway and are potent inhibitors of the synthesis of four pro-inflammatory cytokines: IL-6, IL-8, IL-β and TNFα [150]. The anti-inflammatory activity of lavender oil was also revealed in an animal study of inflammation induced by carrageenan and croton oil. This inflammation model shows increased cytokine, prostaglandin and leukotriene production. These effects are thought to be mediated by protein kinase C, which mediates a number of intracellular signal transduction pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammation, including phospholipase A2-dependent arachidonic acid release and eicosanoid production. Animals pretreated with lavender oil demonstrated decreased inflammatory response [151]. In an acute model of inflammation (carrageenan-induced paw oedema model) in mice, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and NO production were decreased in animals treated with lavender essential oil [152].
Lemon balm is another popular herb with multiple therapeutic properties, including antidepressive, antispasmodic and antimicrobial effects. This medicinal plant reduces stress and anxiety and promotes sleep. Moreover, lemon balm has marked anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This plant is also used to treat neurodegenerative diseases and obesity. Additionally, it finds application in ophthalmology, gynaecology, oncology, gastroenterology and cardiology [153,154]. In an animal study, in the carrageenan paw oedema model in rats, an antioxidant capacity of lemon balm extract was demonstrated, including the ability to scavenge a wide range of free radicals, including nitric oxide. The mechanisms of antioxidant action of lemon balm extract involve improving plasma levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, as well as a marked reduction in plasma DNA damage, myeloperoxidase and lipid peroxidation [155]. Noteworthy, essential oils from lemon balm are also a rich source of phenolic antioxidants (mainly citronellal and neral), and its activity is comparable with synthetic antioxidants: butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) [155]. The anti-inflammatory action of lemon balm, similar to other medicinal plants discussed in this review, was revealed to be attributed to the alleviation of reactions induced by prostaglandins and some pro-inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6) cytokines [154].
Magnolia bark also shows a strong anti-inflammatory effect. This medicinal plant has been used for thousands of years in Chinese and Japanese medicines to treat anxiety, asthma, depression, gastrointestinal disorders and headache. The main compounds with anti-inflammatory effects are honokiol and magnolol. Honokiol inhibits the TNF-α-stimulated NF-κB pathway, with subsequent inhibition of NO generation. Moreover, honokiol reduces NF-κB target genes, such as VEGF, ICAM-1 and COX-2. This compound is regarded as a potent inhibitor of ROS, with estimated antioxidant activity 1000 times that of α-tocopherol (vitamin E) [156]. In an experimental in vitro study, magnolia bark extract reduced matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) secretion from LPS-stimulated monocytes [157]. Both honokiol and magnolol have antioxidant properties [158]. Honokiol significantly inhibited the LPS-induced TNF-α synthesis and NF-κB activity in mouse monocytes [159].
Mimosa tree is a medicinal plant with antidepressant, anticancer, antibacterial, antiallergic, antinociceptive, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects [160,161]. Similar to other medicinal plants mentioned above, the mimosa tree also exerted an anti-inflammatory effect in experimental carrageenan, dextran and cotton pellet-induced rat models of inflammation and paw oedema [162]. Furthermore, in the chronic rat model of inflammation, the aqueous extract of mimosa tree alleviated both the first phase of the inflammatory response produced by histamine, serotonin, prostaglandins and bradykinin and inhibited the second transudative and proliferative phase associated with cyclooxygenase products of the entity [163,164]. Again, as with the other medicinal plants discussed above, the anti-inflammatory effect of mimosa tree is accompanied by an antioxidant effect due to potent free radical scavenging effects comparable to those of ascorbic acid and activation of superoxide dismutases and glutathione peroxidase catalase [161,165].
An anti-inflammatory effect is also reported for roseroot, and this action is conditioned by specific compounds: salidroside and rosavin. Roseroot is considered an adaptogen—it means that the plant stimulates the body’s resistance to physical, environmental and emotional stressors. Thus, it is used to fight fatigue, anxiety, stress and depression. The anti-inflammatory property of extracts from this medicinal plant finds use in various pathological conditions, including cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic disease, arthritis or cancer [166]. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the immune-regulation effects of roseroot extract via various inflammatory mediators (e.g., TNFα, IL-6, IL-1β, NO, COX-2) and signalling pathways (NF-κB, activator protein 1 (AP-1) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)) [166,167]. Furthermore, an experimental study confirmed the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of roseroot constituents in microglial and neuronal cells. Activated microglia produce large amounts of reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which, in turn, cause neuronal damage. Moreover, the active compound of roseroot protects against glutamate-induced nephrotoxicity. Thus, roseroot preparations may offer some health benefits in neurodegenerative disorders [168].
A pronounced immunoregulatory effect is also documented for dried stigmas of the saffron crocus. This plant may have the potential to treat cancer and age-related macular degeneration. However, it has a well-documented efficacy as an alternative treatment for mild to moderate depression. The putative anti-inflammatory action of saffron crocus is likely caused by crocin, crocetin and safranal. The molecular mechanisms of these derivatives involve a decrease of serum levels of NF-κB p65 subunit, TNF-α, IFN-γ and some interleukins, such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12 and IL-17A. Moreover, saffron crocus has been known as the antagonist of NF-κB and the agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ). In addition, this flower was shown to down-regulate pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as MPO, COX-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and phospholipase A2, inhibiting prostanoids synthesis [169]. In a clinical study of patients with type 2 diabetes, 12 weeks of supplementation with saffron tablets (100 mg/day) yielded no significant differences between groups treated with saffron crocus and placebo regarding TNF-α, but the supplementation resulted in a marked decrease in blood MDA level, which is a marker of oxidative stress [170]. Similarly, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease supplemented with saffron crocus (30 mg/day of crocin during 12 weeks) demonstrated decreased serum levels of total oxidative status and NF-κB, which indicated that saffron supplementation appears to effectively establish oxidant/antioxidant balance and improve inflammatory conditions in patients with COPD [171]. The anti-inflammatory property of saffron crocus was also proved in asthma patients. The 8-week administration of 100 mg/day of saffron crocus preparation resulted in a significant increase of IL-10, IL-35 and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) [172]. Some experimental studies showed that saffron crocus contributes to neuroprotection. The saffron crocus compounds decrease CNS inflammation by inhibiting the production of free radicals and enhancing antioxidant activities in the extracellular signal-related kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) pathway-dependent manner. Moreover, saffron crocus preparations enhance gamma-glutamylcysteine synthase activity, the main enzyme for glutathione synthesis [173].
St. John’s wort is one of the most popular medicinal plants. It has been used in digestive disorders, e.g., dyspepsia and spastic ailments of the digestive tract (for the relaxation of the smooth muscles of the digestive tract and bile ducts). It also has cholagogic and cholepoietic effects. Among the numerous biological properties of SJW, the anti-inflammatory effect should be stressed. The medicinal plant has a long history of traditional use in inflammatory conditions, e.g., neuralgia, fibrositis, rheumatism and sciatica. It is also applied externally to treat wounds and bruises [174]. A key anti-inflammatory mechanism of SJW is the inhibition of the expression of pro-inflammatory genes, including COX-2, IL-6 and iNOS [175]. PGE2 is formed from arachidonic acid (AA) by cyclooxygenase-catalysed synthesis of prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) and further transformation by PGE2 synthases. Experimental studies demonstrated that one of the main compounds of SJW, hyperforin, potently inhibited the enzymatic conversion of PGH2 to PGE2, catalysed by PGE2 synthases. Moreover, hyperforin was also found to inhibit 5-LOX. It also contributes to the anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerogenic properties of SJW [176]. In the context of the anti-inflammatory effect of St. John’s wort within the CNS and the associated antidepressant effect, experimental studies have shown that mouse hippocampal neurons were protected against glutamate- or NMDA-induced cytotoxicity by SJW extract. Moreover, a morphological remodelling by increasing neurite outgrowth and activation of the anti-inflammatory defence by inhibiting cytokine production was reported in human macrophages in the presence of SJW extract. These neuroprotective properties may be the beneficial antidepressive effect of SJW supplementation [177].
In conclusion, the evidence discussed briefly above confirms the anti-inflammatory properties of medicinal plants showing antidepressant activity. In the context of the complex pathogenesis of depression, which also includes immunological disturbances within the brain, it should be emphasized that the anti-inflammatory potential of the medicinal plants discussed in this review is an important element of their antidepressant activity. Details on the mechanisms of antidepressant action of individual plants discussed here are presented in Table 4.
In addition, the complex antidepressant effect caused by phytopharmacologically active ingredients is often accompanied by an anxiolytic effect, which alleviates sleep disorders, improves cognitive function and counteracts adynamia and fatigue. This is due to the complex action of phytopharmacological compounds. Further, the secondary anxiolytic effect induced by herbal antidepressants may be due to a “halo effect”, which means that anxiety may also be reduced if depression is successfully treated [15,178]. It should be stressed once again that the mechanisms of action of active ingredients present in medicinal plants with antidepressant properties, in accordance with the principles of synergy and polyvalence, are not as clearly defined as for synthetic, single antidepressants.
Table 4 lists plants considered to show antidepressant activity, with details regarding their mechanisms of antidepressant action.
The literature review also revealed the results of some clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of the antidepressant medicinal plants discussed in this paper. Although the number of these studies is much smaller than studies evaluating synthetic antidepressants, and they are subject to some caveats, as discussed below, the available data support the efficacy of phytopharmacotherapy in mild to moderate depression, with an emphasis on the lower potential for adverse effects. In line with the principles of evidence-based medicine (EBM), Table 5 presents data obtained from the highest level of scientific evidence (systematic reviews, meta-analyses and isolated, methodologically correct (randomized, blinded) clinical trials) [232,233,234]. For some plants (bacopa, mimosa tree, magnolia), the literature review revealed a clear advantage of experimental animal studies and no results from more extensive clinical trials. In these cases, we also enrolled prospective, observational studies. This further justifies the need to undertake large clinical trials evaluating the potential antidepressant efficacy and safety of these plants in patients with depression. Researchers also emphasize that the vast majority of clinical trials conducted to date evaluating herbal antidepressants have numerous limitations. We should interpret the results of these studies with caution due to the high level of heterogeneity between them. The small sample sizes, relatively small follow-up period and differences between the detailed methodology were the most listed limitations of the present clinical trials. Some of these were not randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, which may lead to potential selection bias and may not exclude natural improvement. Therefore, further high-quality clinical trials are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of medicinal plants with antidepressant effects
Table 5.
Clinical evaluation of antidepressant activity—selected evidence from systematic reviews, meta-analyses and individual clinical trials.
| Author, Year, References | Type of Publication | Characteristic | Conclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. John’s wort | |||
| Cui Y.H. et al. 2016 [235] |
A meta-analysis | 27 clinical trials (3126 patients). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of SJW extract and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the treatment of depression. |
SJW extract did not differ from SSRIs in clinical response, remission and the mean reduction in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score. St. John’s wort extract had a significantly lower rate of adverse events than SSRIs. SJW extract and SSRIs effectively treat mild-to-moderate depression. |
| Apaydin E.A. et al. 2016 [236] |
A systematic review | 35 clinical trials (6993 patients). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of SJW in adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) compared to placebo and active comparator and evaluation of whether the effects vary by severity of MDD. |
Compared to antidepressants, participants taking SJW were less likely to experience adverse events, with no difference in treatment effectiveness in mild and moderate depression. Monotherapy with SJW for mild and moderate depression was superior to placebo in reducing depression symptoms and not significantly different from antidepressant medication. |
| Ng X.N. et al. 2017 [237] |
A meta-analysis | 27 clinical trials (3808 patients). Evaluation of SJW efficacy and comparison to SSRIs. |
SJW showed comparable response and remission in patients with depression and a significantly lower withdrawal/depression rate compared to standard SSRIs. |
| Saffron crocus | |||
| Hausenblas H.A. et al. 2015 [238] |
A systematic review | 12 clinical trials (928 patients). The evaluation of scientific evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the efficacy of saffron crocus on psychological and behavioural outcomes. |
Saffron crocus can reduce the symptoms and effects of depression, premenstrual syndrome, sexual dysfunction and infertility. |
| Hausenblas H.A. et al. 2013 [239] |
A meta-analysis | 5 clinical trials (177 patients). A review of the clinical trials examining the effects of saffron crocus on the treatment of major depressive disorders (MDDs). |
Saffron supplementation can reduce symptoms of depression in adults with MDD. |
| Jackson P.A. et al. 2021 [240] |
A randomized, double-blind, parallel group clinical trial Clinical trial number: NCT03639831 |
The study assessed the efficacy of 8 weeks’ supplementation with 30 mg standardized saffron extract or placebo for 8 weeks on emotional well-being in 56 healthy males and females aged 18–54 years with subclinical feelings of low mood and anxiety and/or stress. | Participants who received the saffron crocus extract reported reduced depression scores and improved social relationships at the end of the study. This extract appears to improve subclinical depressive symptoms in healthy individuals and may contribute to increased resilience against the development of stress-related psychiatric disorders. |
| Akhondzadeh S. et al. 2020 [241] |
A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial |
The study evaluated the effects of 30 mg of Crocus sativus capsules administered for 12 weeks on food craving, body weight and depression among 73 overweight (BMI ≥ 25) women with mild and moderate depression compared to placebo. | Saffron crocus capsules were not effective in reducing food cravings, but as a safe over-the-counter supplement, they were effective in reducing the symptoms of depression in patients who experience mild or moderate depression and are overweight. |
| Lemon balm | |||
| Ghazizadeh J. et al. 2021 [242] |
A systemic review and meta-analysis | Investigation of the effects and side effects of lemon balm as a medicinal herb on anxiety and depression in clinical trials published up to 30 October 2020. | Lemon balm significantly improved mean anxiety and depression scores compared with the placebo without serious side effects. Current evidence suggests that lemon balm may be effective in improving anxiety and depressive symptoms, particularly in the acute setting. |
| Haybar H. et al. 2018 [243] |
A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial | The study aimed to determine the effects of lemon balm supplementation (3 g during 8 weeks) on depression, anxiety, stress, and sleep disturbances in patients with chronic stable angina (CSA). | The intervention group receiving 8-week supplementation with 3 g lemon balm capsules had a significant reduction in scores of depression, anxiety, stress and total sleep disturbance in patients with CSA, compared to the placebo group. |
| Heidari M. et al. 2016 [244] |
A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial | The study evaluated the effect of lemon balm (Melissa Officinalis; 500 mg three times daily over 7 days) on depression in patients after coronary artery bypass graft. | After the intervention, herbal balm decreased depression more in the intervention group compared to the placebo group. Lemon balm may reduce depression after a coronary artery bypass graft. |
| Lavender | |||
| Firoozeei T.S. et al. 2021 [245] |
A systematic review and meta-analysis | 17 clinical trials (1859 patients). Determining the efficacy of lavender on depression severity by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis. |
The results showed a significant efficacy of lavender in reducing depression scores compared to the control group. Subgroup analysis showed that the effect of lavender was slightly more pronounced in participants with a diagnosis of depression, while its effect was statistically significant in patients with other illnesses with associated depressive symptoms, and the oral route was the most effective route of administration. |
| Nategh M. et al. 2022 [246] |
A single-blind, randomized clinical trial | The study aimed to investigate the effects of lavender essential oil (two drops of lavender essence dropped on non-absorbent three-ply tissue paper attached to the patient’s shirt collar) on anxiety and depression in 110 patients with the acute coronary syndrome (ACS). | The study confirmed the effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy in reducing anxiety and depression in ACS patients and supports the use of lavender oil aromatherapy by intensive care nurses as a non-pharmacological and cost-effective intervention to reduce psychological tension and increase patient satisfaction during hospitalization in cardiac care units. |
| Tayebi A. et al. 2015 [247] |
A randomized controlled clinical trial | The study evaluated the effect of aromatherapy with lavender essential oil on depression, anxiety and stress rates in 60 haemodialysis patients who inhaled the lavender essential oil smeared on a piece of cloth (three drops of oil) for one hour during the haemodialysis procedure. | The administration of lavender oil decreased the scores of depression and stress in the intervention group in comparison with the control group. Still, the reduction in the anxiety score was not statistically significant. Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil might reduce depression and stress among haemodialysis patients. Therefore, this method can be used as a complementary method with less complication to improve the quality of life of these patients. |
| Jokar M. et al. 2020 [248] |
A single-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial | Evaluation of the effect of inhaled lavender aromatherapy on depression and anxiety levels among 46 postmenopausal women who were administered 2% inhaled lavender essence or distilled water 20 min in the evening before bedtime for 4 consecutive weeks. | Depression and anxiety mean scores decreased in the lavender group compared with controls, providing evidence that lavender aromatherapy may be an effective non-invasive treatment during the postmenopausal stage. |
| Roseroot | |||
| Mao J.J. et al. 2014 [249] |
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study clinical trial | Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of R. rosea (extract 340–1360 mg daily) versus sertraline or placebo therapy in 57 subjects with major depressive disorder (MDD) in a 12-week treatment. | Although R. rosea produced less antidepressant effect versus sertraline, it also resulted in significantly fewer adverse events and was better tolerated. These findings suggest that R. rosea, although less effective than sertraline, may have a more favourable risk–benefit ratio for people with mild to moderate depression. |
| Ginkgo | |||
| Liang Z.H. et al. 2019 [250] |
A randomized, double-blind clinical trial | Evaluation of the efficacy of ginkgo extract (40 mg three times a day) as augmentation of treatment in 80 venlafaxine-treated (75–225 mg/day) post-stroke depression (PSD) patients. Moreover, serum 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and BDNF levels were measured before and after treatment. | Patients receiving ginkgo extract plus venlafaxine had significantly lower mean depression scale scores. Meanwhile, compared to the control group, patients in the experimental group additionally receiving ginkgo extract had significantly higher 5-HT levels and BDNF levels and required a lower dose of venlafaxine and experienced fewer adverse events. The results showed that ginkgo extract was a good augmentation of venlafaxine in the treatment of PSD. |
| Dai C.X. et al. 2018 [251] |
A randomized clinical trial | Evaluation of the efficacy of ginkgo extract (EGb; 19.2 mg three times daily) as adjunctive treatment in 136 elderly depressed patients treated with citalopram (Cit; 20 mg daily) and the effect on serum glioma-derived protein (S100B) expression, which is reduced in depressive disorders. | The time to onset of efficacy was significantly shorter in the EGb + Cit group. After treatment, S100B levels decreased, and the change in S100B levels in the EGb + Cit group was greater than in the Cit group. EGb, as an adjunctive treatment, can effectively improve depressive symptoms and reduce serum S100B expression, which is a marker of brain damage, suggesting that EGb restores neurological function when treating depression in elderly patients. |
| Korean ginseng | |||
| Jeong H.G. et al. 2015 [252] |
An open-label, prospective clinical study | Evaluation of the efficacy and tolerability of adjuvant treatment with Korean red ginseng (3 g/day for 8 weeks) in 25 female patients with residual symptoms of major depression. | Subjects reported a significant reduction in depressive symptoms over 8 weeks. The results suggest that Korean red ginseng is effective as an adjunctive treatment for patients with residual symptoms of major depression. |
| Lee K.H. et al. 2020 [253] |
An open-label, prospective clinical study | Evaluation of the efficacy and tolerability of Korean red ginseng supplementation (RGA; 2 g/day for 6 weeks) in major depressive disorder (MDD) of 36 difficult-to-treat patients who were currently on antidepressant monotherapy (duloxetine, venlafaxine, paroxetine, sertraline, fluoxetine, escitalopram, mirtazapine). | The study demonstrated the presumed efficacy and tolerability of RGA in the treatment of MDD, which is difficult to treat in clinical practice. Remission rates were significantly better in patients treated with RGA. |
| Borage | |||
| Sayyah M. et al. 2006 [254] |
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial |
The evaluation of the efficacy of an aqueous extract of E. amoenum (375 mg daily for 6 weeks) in 35 patients with mild to moderate major depressive disorder. | At week 4, the extract showed a significant advantage over the placebo in reducing depressive symptoms. The effect on anxiety was not significant. |
| Najafabady M.T. et al. 2019 [255] |
A double-blind, randomized clinical trial | The aim of the study was to compare the effects of Echium amoenum extract (500 mg daily for 8 weeks) with fluoxetine on depression in 72 menopausal women. | At the start of the study, a comparison of the mean depression scores in the two intervention and control groups showed no significant difference. However, a statistically significant difference was observed in the mean depression score in both groups at week 4 of the intervention. No statistically significant difference was observed between the mean depression scores of the two groups at the end of the study. |
| Saiiah Bargard M. et al. 2004 [256] |
A double-blind, randomized clinical trial | Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of an aqueous extract of Echium amoenum (375 mg daily for 6 weeks) in 35 patients with mild to moderate major depressive disorder (MDD). | At week 4 of the study, the extract was superior to the placebo, and at week 6, the difference was marginally insignificant. Echium amoenum extract did not cause more side effects than placebo during the study. It was concluded that the aqueous extract of Echium amoenum can be considered an effective and safe treatment for MDD. |
| Brahmi | |||
| Shetty S.K. et al. 2021 [257] |
An open-label, prospective clinical study | Evaluation of the efficacy of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri; 500 mg twice daily for 30 days) in reducing depression, anxiety and stress among 198 in COVID-19 negative Indian patients aged 12 to 60 years. | The study showed a significant decrease in the severity of depression, anxiety and stress after Brahmi supplementation for 1 month. |
| Calabrese C. et al. 2008 [258] |
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial | Evaluation of the effects of Bacopa monnieri standardized dry extract (300 mg daily for 12 weeks) on cognitive function and affect, and its safety and tolerability in 54 healthy elderly participants (65 years or older). | Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CESD-10) depression scores, joint state plus trait anxiety scores, and decreased heart rate over time for the Bacopa group. |
| Mimosa tree | |||
| Xueli S. 2013 [259] |
A randomized, parallel controlled clinical trial | Evaluation of the effects of Albizia julibrissin flower decoctum (AJF; 30 g, 1 dose/day, decocted in water up to 200 mL, in the afternoon; treatment for 6 weeks) in patients with depression compared to those treated with venlafaxine. | In the treatment group, 8 cases were cured, 20 cases were markedly effective, 10 cases were effective, 12 cases were invalid, the total efficacy was 76.00%. In the control group, 10 cases were cured, 20 cases were markedly effective, 10 cases were effective, 10 cases were invalid, the total efficacy was 80.00%. |
| Magnolia bark | |||
| Xue L. et al. 2020 [260] |
A randomized controlled clinical trial |
The aim of the study was to investigate whether magnolia tea drunk for 3 weeks (one cup per day, prepared by infusing the tea in 300 mL of hot water for 12 min) has a palliative effect on postnatal depression in 143 postpartum women. | Compared to the control group, the intervention group showed a significant difference in sleep deprivation related to physical symptoms at week 3 post-test. The comparison results also showed alleviation of depressive symptoms at week 3 post-test and week 6 post-test. The results suggested that drinking a single-ingredient magnolia tea for a 3-week duration had positive effects on postpartum women. |
9. Conclusions and Future Research Directions
Many medicinal plants exert a range of psychotherapeutic effects through their influence on central nervous system activity, including antidepressant, anxiolytic, sedative, hypnotic or cognitive effects. Moreover, medicinal plants with adaptogenic and toning effects are important in phytopharmacotherapy because they are believed to enhance adaptation to exogenous stressors through complex and pleiotropic neuroendocrine mechanisms [261,262]. The discussion in this review indicates the pharmacological effectiveness of phytotherapy in correcting pathophysiological disturbances and alleviating the symptoms of depression. The mechanisms of action of herbal-derived active compounds with antidepressant activity presented in this narrative review confirm similar pharmacodynamics to synthetic antidepressants. In addition, a literature review yielded some scientific evidence (systematic reviews, meta-analyses and randomized controlled clinical trials) that indicates the clinical effectiveness of the medicinal plants discussed in this paper in treating mild and moderate depression. It makes phytopharmacotherapy a valuable alternative to classical antidepressant treatment (SSRIs). Antidepressant phytotherapy involves a lower risk of side effects. However, one should not forget that it is not entirely devoid of them, which has been particularly demonstrated for St. John’s wort preparations.
According to the authors, taking into account the number of studies carried out so far, the greatest clinical experience regarding the use of phytopharmacotherapy in depression should be attributed to St. John’s wort and Saffron preparations. However, we should emphasize that there are some limitations concerning the methodological quality of clinical studies evaluating the phytotherapy of depression. These concerns necessitate further verification of the antidepressant effect of medicinal plants in large, appropriately designed clinical trials to yield conclusive and incontrovertible results confirming the efficacy and safety of herbal antidepressants.
In addition to the medicinal plants described in this review, other plants are currently being studied for their antidepressant activity. Examples of such plants include Asparagus racemosus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Curcuma longa, Camellia sinensis, Emblica officinalis, Cucurbita pepo, Centella asiatica, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Piper methysticum and others [3,4,263,264]. Antidepressant activity is also sought in plants with documented sedative, hypnotic and anxiolytic properties, such as Humulus lupulus (hops), Valeriana officinalis (valerian) and Passiflora incarnata (maypop) [192]. A promising direction in the search for new antidepressant plants may also be turning to traditional Chinese and Indian medicine systems. Evidence is being reported that plants exotic to Europeans, found in Africa or South America, or those widely used for centuries in the traditional folk medicine of East Asia (China, Japan) also have antidepressant potential. The prophylaxis and adjuvant treatment of depression were demonstrated for the genera Aloysia, Gladiolus, Hemerocallis or Convolvulus, commonly used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine. Aloysia virgata grows in Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina and Paraguay. The plant is used as an anti-catarrhal, antirheumatic, diaphoretic, stimulant, stomachic and emollient. Plants from the Aloysia genus are also traditionally used for affective disorders, and some have proven anxiolytic and antidepressant activity. Animal studies using the tail suspension test (TST) and forced swimming test (FST) demonstrated promising antidepressive activity of the ethanolic extract of Aloysia [265].
Hemerocallis citrina is a plant indigenous to Asia. It is used in the folk medicine of East Asia (China, Japan) and North America to improve emotional health and treat various diseases, including insomnia, hepatosis and cancer [266]. Recent clinical studies confirm the sedative effects and high efficiency of ethanol extracts from the plant in mitigating sleep and memory disorders, with the antidepressant effect currently being studied in animal models [267]. Gladiolus dalenii is used by local communities in Africa to treat various infections, such as meningitis, malaria, diarrhoea, ulcers and HIV-related fungal infections [268]. In African ethnomedicine, especially in Cameroon, Gladiolus is regarded to be a cure for various CNS disorders, such as epilepsy, convulsions, schizophrenia and mood disorders. There are reasons to believe preparations from this plant show antidepressant efficacy in animal models of epilepsy. Animal experiments based on the TST and FST also showed the potential effectiveness of this plant in an animal model of depression [267]. Convolvulus pluricaulis (shankhpushpi) is one of the perennial medicinal herbs described in Ayurvedic literature. This plant is reported to improve memory skills as a psychostimulant with a calming effect, reducing mental tension [269]. Pharmacological studies indicate that compounds found in Convolvulus pluricaulis interact with various proteins, neurosynapses, signalling pathways and serotonergic synapses, which play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease and neurotransmission abnormalities related to long-term depression [270].
In general, according to Moragrega and Rios, there were about 650 reports of antidepressant-like medicinal plants in the PubMed database (considering the timespan from January 2000 to March 2020). There were 155 species studied and reported as antidepressants or as sources of active principles for treating this condition in preclinical studies [271,272]. A paradigm shift in current research should also be noted—the main research directions are shifting from the classic correction of neurotransmission to the immunological and inflammatory aspects, in accordance with the broad “psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinological” pathophysiological concept of depression. Thus, current research focuses not only on verifying the effect of novel plant-derived preparations on CNS neurotransmission, but also confirming the phytopharmacological activity in the mitigation of pro-inflammatory mediators and enzymes [271,272]. Therefore, the novel herbal antidepressants expected in the near future will not strive to rectify monoamine disturbances in the CNS, but will focus more on immunoregulatory effects, targeting immunological and hormonal disorders, which so far have been secondary pathophysiological targets of pharmacotherapy not covered by classical treatment with synthetic antidepressants.
Abbreviations
| 5-HT | 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) |
| ADRs | adverse drug reactions |
| AMPA | α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (glutamate receptors) |
| BDNF | brain derived neurotrophic factor |
| CNS | central nervous system |
| COX-2 | cyclooxygenase 2 |
| GABA | gamma aminobutyric acid |
| HPA | hypothalamic-pituitary-axis |
| SSRIs | selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors |
| Il | interleukin |
| INF-γ | interferon-γ |
| iNOS | inducible nitric oxide synthase |
| MAH | marketing authorization holder |
| MAOIs | monoamine oxidase inhibitors |
| MDD | major depressive disorder |
| NDRIs | noradrenaline and dopamine reuptake inhibitors |
| NE | noradrenaline (norepinephrine) |
| NF-κB | nuclear factor-kappa factor |
| NMDA | N-methyl-D-aspartate (glutamate receptors) |
| NRIs | noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors |
| OTC | over the counter (drugs) |
| OS | oxidative stress |
| SNRIs | selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors |
| SJW | St. John’s wort |
| TCAs | tricyclic antidepressants |
| TNF-α | tumour necrosis alpha |
| WHO | World Health Organization |
Author Contributions
Conceptualization, L.D.; literature search and article selection, L.D.; writing—original draft preparation, L.D.; writing—review and editing, L.D. and K.G.; visualization, L.D. and K.G.; supervision, L.D. and K.G.; funding acquisition, L.D. and K.G. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Institutional Review Board Statement
Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement
Not applicable.
Data Availability Statement
Data sharing not applicable.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Funding Statement
This paper received no external funding.
Footnotes
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