The Effect of Cuscuta chinensis on Mild to Moderate Depression: a Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Background and objectives: Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders. Cuscuta chinensis is a plant known for its various pharmacological effects. This study assessed the impact of C. chinensis on mild to moderate depression in adults. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 90 patients with mild to moderate depression visiting the psychiatry clinic of Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences were randomly assigned to two groups: the intervention, receiving daily fluoxetine (20 mg) along with 1.2 grams of C. chinensis extract powder mixed with milk on an empty stomach, and the control group, receiving daily fluoxetine (20 mg). Depression severity was measured using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) at baseline, 3 and 6 weeks after treatment. Results: The mean BDI score at baseline was 19.6±4.22 in the intervention group and 18.4±11.23 in the control group (p=0.091). The interaction effect between group and time was statistically significant, indicating a greater reduction in depression scores in the intervention group compared to the control group (F=6.807, df=2, p=0.001). A few mild side effects were reported in the intervention group (flatulence, headache, heartburns and allergy; no significant differences observed in liver or renal function tests). Conclusion: The addition of C. chinensis to fluoxetine treatment led to a significant reduction in depression scores at sixth week, although the clinical impact was modest and requires further investigation. Regarding the mild side effects, C. chinensis could be considered as a supplementary option in the treatment of mild to moderate depression.