Medicinal Plants for Major Depressive Disorder

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a severe, chronic illness for which conventional treatments often show limited efficacy and side effects, driving a renewed interest in traditional medicinal plants. The therapeutic promise of these plants lies in their multi-targeted action, influencing neurotransmitter systems, modulating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, impacting neuroplasticity, and regulating the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. Despite their clinical potential, the use of medicinal plants is associated with challenges, including complex pharmacokinetics, significant adverse effects, and the risk of herb-drug interactions, alongside concerns regarding standardization and quality control. This manuscript aims to examine the therapeutic potential of key medicinal plants for managing MDD, including <i>Hypericum perforatum</i>, <i>Rhodiola rosea</i>, <i>Melissa officinalis</i>, <i>Passiflora incarnata</i>, <i>Valeriana officinalis</i>, and <i>Cannabis sativa</i>. Additionally, the review addresses emerging candidates such as <i>Curcuma longa</i>, <i>Withania somnifera</i>, <i>Panax ginseng</i> and <i>Centella asiatica</i>. By focusing on their mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and associated risks, this review provides a more comprehensive understanding of their role in modern psychiatric care.