Herbal Antidepressant: An Evidence-based review of plants used in the Treatment of Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety damage brain cells, altering clinical outcomes and quality of life. Memory loss, anxiety, sleep disorders, and dementia affect millions globally due to mental health issues. Since ancient times, herbal therapies for neurological diseases have been used, and 88% of people worldwide use traditional medicine or medicinal herbs for general health. Herbal remedies enhance conventional treatments with plant substances. Central nervous system serotonin (5-HT), BDNF, glutamate, dopamine, and norepinephrine activities contribute. Molecular antidepressants alter serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels in depressed brains. Traditional plant-based medicine is essential in underdeveloped nations. Herbal and plant-based depression and anxiety treatments are growing in industrialized nations. About 25% of pharmaceuticals are plant-based, and 75% of people worldwide use traditional medicine. The 520 drugs contain 30% natural compounds or their derivatives, with 75% treating cancer and 60% infectious diseases. Fatty acids, flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, triterpenoids, essential oils, and saponins are anxiolytics and antidepressants.