A REVIEW ON ANTIDEPRESSANT EFFECT OF HERBAL DRUGS

Abstract

Depression is a psychiatric illness, which affects the patient’s mood, behaviour and thoughts. Several number of studies are exists about depression which state that depression is a mental health disorder characterised by depressed mood or loss of interest in activities. A variety of conventional drugs are in practice for the treatment of depression. But their side effects and drug interactions restricts their clinical utility. On the other hand, herbal drugs are now globally used due to their applicability and therapeutic efficacy with minimum or low side effects. This study is aimed to summarize the possible biological actions of some herbal drugs to further understand their beneficial health effects against depression, anxiety, and various neurological disorders. A literature survey was conducted to summarize the therapeutic benefits of several medicinal herbs against depression and describe their detailed mechanisms. The current data from recent studies showed that numerous herbal drugs are available which are effective against depression and other related disorders. These were found safer than synthetic drugs. The use of herbal drugs is an effective alternative option for the treatment of depression where the synthetic or conventional drugs are not applicable due to their severe side effects and inaccessibility. Though, clinical studies are required to support the safety and efficacy of herbal drugs in the treatment of depression.