by A recent study conducted by researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) in Germany, in collaboration with the BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center in Portland, Oregon, has shown that traditional medicinal plants used in Ayurvedic medicine can alleviate symptoms of depression in fruit flies. The findings, published in Nutrients, demonstrate that two Ayurvedic plants, Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) and Centella asiatica (Indian pennywort), can improve resilience to chronic stress in Drosophila melanogaster.
Chronic stress can lead to depression-like behaviors in fruit flies, including a lack of motivation and decreased interest in activities. The researchers sought to test the effects of Ayurvedic medicinal plants on the insects’ stress response and behavior. The team focused on botanical extracts known for their use in traditional Asian medicine and as dietary supplements. These extracts contain active constituents and adaptogens that help the body adapt to increased stress.
What sets medicinal plants apart from conventional drugs is the fact that they contain a blend of active botanical substances that act on different sites of the stress axis. This synergistic effect may result in fewer side effects compared to a single active substance administered alone. Additionally, dietary supplements can be used in combination with pharmacotherapies as complementary medications.
In their study, the researchers administered the two Ayurvedic plants prophylactically to fruit flies. They found that both plants enhanced resilience to chronic stress, preventing the flies from entering a depression-like state in the first place. Interestingly, the preparation method of the plants made a difference – aqueous extracts of Withania somnifera had better prophylactic effects than alcohol extracts.
The team also identified a specific component, chlorogenic acid, in Centella asiatica that acted as an anti-stress substance. Chlorogenic acid is present in various botanicals, including coffee beans, valerian, and St. John’s wort. The research results indicated that chlorogenic acid targeted the protein phosphatase calcineurin in fruit flies, which plays a significant role in neuronal function and signaling pathways.
The study not only provides insights into the effects of Ayurvedic medicinal plants on stress and depression but also offers starting points for further research on resilience. The researchers believe that understanding the mechanisms behind the plants’ effects can contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches for depression and stress-related disorders.
Overall, this study highlights the potential benefits of using natural products in the treatment of depression and stress-related conditions. As research continues, Ayurvedic plants and traditional medicinal herbs hold promise for developing novel therapies that are safe, effective, and have fewer side effects than conventional drugs.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
