The Potential Role of Herbal Plants in the Management of Depression: Pre-Clinical and Clinical Evidence

Abstract: Depression, a debilitating mental health disorder affecting millions worldwide, continues to challenge the medical community. While several pharmacological interventions exist, their efficacy and side effects often warrant the exploration of alternative treatments. Natural products derived from plants have gained attention for their potential antidepressant properties in preclinical studies. This comprehensive review examines the antidepressant activity of various plant-based extracts through preclinical investigations and explores the underlying mechanisms of action. Our review systematically analyzes the literature, encompassing a wide range of plants. We present evidence from pre-clinical and clinical studies, highlighting the behavioural and neurochemical changes induced by these plant-derived compounds. Furthermore, we delve into the potential mechanisms of action, encompassing modulation of neurotransmitters, anti-inflammatory effects, neurogenesis promotion, and antioxidant properties. The reviewed studies suggest that numerous plants possess promising antidepressant properties, potentially offering novel therapeutic avenues. However, the variability in methodologies and the need for further clinical validation underscore the complexity of translating preclinical findings into effective treatments. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians alike, shedding light on the current state of knowledge regarding plants with antidepressant potential and their underlying mechanisms of action, paving the way for future investigations and therapeutic developments in the field of depression management.