Acupuncture for Mental Health.
Chronic stress, anxiety and depression are the most common and disabling mental health concerns in modern society. They are often experienced as a complex set of emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms.
People with anxiety disorder frequently experience unpleasant feelings of worry or fear accompanied by physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, digestive complaints, trembling, irritability, sweating and hot flashes.
Depression is characterised by low energy, mood and low self-esteem, poor concentration, negative thoughts and emotions, and loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities. Appetite, body weight and sleep are also commonly affected.
What Does The Research Say?
The following insights are obtained from systematic reviews and analysis of clinical trials investigating the efficacy of Chinese medicine and acupuncture for mental health.
2023 Nutrients
Vitamin D deficiency could accelerate depressive symptoms and suicide risks, and vitamin D supplementation may mitigate these effects.
The paper examines the links between vitamin D deficiency, depression, and suicide from various studies. It hypothesizes that vitamin D could enhance serotonin synthesis and modulate proinflammatory cytokines, both factors in depression and suicide. The paper reviews this hypothesis in the context of the broader health issue of suicide, which is among the leading causes of death worldwide.
This paper then discusses the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation. Drawing upon indirect evidence suggesting that vitamin D deficiencies may be a risk factor for depression—one of the most common factors in suicide attempts—the paper postulates that vitamin D supplementation could play a role in helping to reduce the risk of depression and thus suicide. The beneficial mechanisms of vitamin D, such as enhancing serotonin synthesis and modulating proinflammatory cytokines, which are associated with depression and suicide, stand as the central contributing factors in this hypothesis.
Vitamin D in Depression: A Potential Bioactive Agent to Reduce Suicide and Suicide Attempt Risk Somoza-Moncada MM, Turrubiates-Hernández FJ, Muñoz-Valle JF, Gutiérrez-Brito JA, DÃaz-Pérez SA, Aguayo-Arelis A, Hernández-Bello J
2023 Journal of Functional Foods
Fermented Pueraria lobata root extract and Glycine max extract showed estrogen-like activities, reducing depressive symptoms in menopausal mice but not increasing female cancer risks.
The researchers focused on Pueraria lobata roots and Glycine max (also known as soybeans) extracts, which are rich in isoflavones but often limited in practical use due to their high molecular weight and low bioavailability. The researchers chose to ferment these extracts with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains which are known to convert glycosides to aglycones, potentially enhancing the beneficial effects of the isoflavones. Specifically, the study was conducted using ovariectomized mice.
The research found that both fermented Pueraria lobata root extract and Glycine max extract exhibited estrogen-like activities. More intriguingly, the fermentation process increased the expression of estrogen receptor beta, suggesting that these extracts may not increase the risk of various female cancers—a common side effect of hormone replacement therapy—as was previously believed. Also, the ingestion of these extracts not only increased the estrogen receptor beta in the mice but also upregulated the expression of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the hippocampal region of the brain, thus improving depressive symptoms. The highest expression was observed in the group given a mixture of both extracts.
Effects of Pueraria lobata root and Glycine max (L.) Merrill extracts fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on the depressive-like behavior in ovariectomized mice via upregulation of hippocampal BDNF Ha J, Jang HM, Choi I
2022 Frontiers in Pharmacology
Modified Xiao Chai Hu Decoction combined with mirtazapine shows superior effectiveness in treating persistent depressive disorder compared to traditional Chinese medicine alone.
For the study, patients from the Naval General Hospital diagnosed with persistent depressive disorder were selected and divided into two groups. One group received modified Xiaochaihu Decoction only, while the other group was treated with a combination of modified Xiaochaihu Decoction and mirtazapine. To track progress, measurements were taken using the self-rating depression scale and the traditional Chinese medicine scale at the beginning of treatment, and again after a period of 12 weeks. Moreover, an account of any adverse reactions was also kept.
The study results indicate the total effective rate was significantly higher in the combined group compared to the control group. It was also found that while post-treatment scores of the depression scales were lower in both groups, the difference between the groups was not statistically significant. However, the combined group reported higher improvement rates for symptoms like insomnia, bitter taste, languid, and belching/anorexia. An increased frequency of adverse events was also noted in the combined group.
Modified Xiaochaihu Decoction Combined with Mirtazapine in the Treatment of Persistent Depression: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Xin Li, Xiuyu Li, Man Gong, Chaoqun Li, Jing Li, Chao Zhou, Tingting He
2022 Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies
Acupuncture shows promise in improving psychiatric symptoms, physical symptoms, and quality of life in patients with treatment-resistant mood disorders, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapy for these conditions.
This prospective study explored the effects of acupuncture on physical symptoms and quality of life (QoL) in patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD). After 12 weeks of acupuncture treatment, significant improvements were observed in psychiatric symptoms, physical symptoms, and various aspects of QoL. These findings suggest that acupuncture may be beneficial for both the physical and mental well-being of patients with treatment-resistant mood disorders, although further research is needed to validate these preliminary results.
Effect of Acupuncture on Physical Symptoms and Quality of Life in Treatment-Resistant Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder: a Single-Arm Longitudinal Study Matsuura Y, Hongo S, Taniguchi H, Yasuno F, Sakai T
2022 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Xiao Yao San, alone or combined with anxiolytics, assists in better improvement and safety in treating anxiety disorders compared to anxiolytics alone.
The methodology involved a systematic search on PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, and several Chinese databases for all randomized control trials (RCTs) that have evaluated the use of XYS for treating anxiety disorders until November 2021. The studies were independently screened, and data were extracted by two investigators who also assessed the risk of bias in the selected trials using RevMan5.3 software.
The meta-analysis result shows that the use of XYS, either on its own or together with anxiolytics, showed better improvements in anxiety-related symptoms and fewer adverse drug reactions compared to treatment with anxiolytics only. This suggests that XYS, whether used alone or in conjunction with anxiolytic agents, appears to offer a more effective and safer treatment option for anxiety disorders.
Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Xiao Yao San as a Treatment for Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Lin J, Ji Y, Si J, Wang G, Li X, Shen L
2022 Frontiers in Pharmacology
Chinese herbal medicine was effective in treating coronary heart disease patients with anxiety or depression, particularly in improving angina pectoris, and its active compounds could act on the pathological targets of CHD, anxiety, and depression.
The meta-analysis of 32 studies found that Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) was more effective in treating anxiety and depression in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) compared to control groups, and the efficacy of CHM was similar to Western medicine. Additionally, CHM was shown to improve angina stability in CHD patients with anxiety or depression better than control and Western medicine groups. The study identified the main underlying mechanisms to involve anti-damage/apoptosis, anti-inflammation, antioxidative stress, and maintaining neurotransmitter homeostasis, with certain herbal compounds being most related to CHD, anxiety, and depression.
Evidence and Characteristics of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Coronary Heart Disease Patients With Anxiety or Depression: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review Wang B, Teng Y, Li Y, Lai S, Wu Y, Chen S, Li T, Han X, Zhou H, Wang Y, Lu Z, Li H, Ding Y, Ma L, Zhao M, Wang X
2022 The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry
Dark chocolate exerts prebiotic effects and may improve negative emotional states via the gut-brain axis.
To assess the association between the mood-altering effects of dark chocolate and the gut microbiota, we performed fecal 16S rRNA sequencing analysis for the DC85 and CON groups. Gut microbial diversity was significantly higher in DC85 than CON (P<.05). Blautia obeum levels were significantly elevated and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii levels were reduced in DC85 compared to CON (P<.05). Furthermore, we found that the observed changes in negative affect scores were negatively correlated with diversity and relative abundance of Blautia obeum (P<.05).
Consumption of 85% cocoa dark chocolate improves mood in association with gut microbial changes in healthy adults: a randomized controlled trial Shin JH, Kim CS, Cha L, Kim S, Lee S, Chae S, Chun WY, Shin DM
2022 Frontiers in Neuroscience
Chinese herbal medicine shows promising and safe outcomes in relieving functional dyspepsia symptoms and associated psychological disorders.
The methodology for this research involved a comprehensive search across various libraries and databases, such as PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and various Chinese data sources, seeking randomized controlled trials where functional dyspepsia was treated with Chinese herbal medicine. The aim was to assess the efficacy and safety of this type of treatment for functional dyspepsia. Two researchers independently conducted each stage of the process, from searching the sources, screening the documents, extracting data, and assessing risk biases within the included studies. They used RevMan 5.4 software to do a meta-analysis of the selected research materials.
The discussion of their findings showed that treatment with Chinese herbal medicine significantly alleviated the symptoms of functional dyspepsia, compared to both a placebo group and a group treated with traditional prokinetic agents and flupentixol melitracen. Patients treated with Chinese herbal medicine reported higher total effective rates and lower total symptom scores, along with smaller depression and anxiety scores. The symptoms of functional dyspepsia, in this case, were improved more successfully with Chinese herbal medicine than with other treatment types, without any significant adverse reactions.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Functional Dyspepsia With Psychological Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Luo X, Wang L, Fang S, Qing X, Jiang T, Yang Y, Su X, Wei W
2022 Frontiers in Psychiatry
Acupuncture can be a safe and effective alternative therapy to conventional drugs for improving sleep quality and relieving symptoms in patients with active depression.
The research methodology involved a systematic review of randomized controlled trials focusing on the effect of acupuncture on depression-related insomnia. These studies were identified from seven different databases, dating up until December 2021. The papers included compared acupuncture to controls (waiting list or placebo/sham acupuncture) and conventional treatments (Western pharmacotherapy and/or cognitive-behavioral therapy) either alone or in combination with acupuncture. The analysis followed Cochrane criteria and encompassed a total of 21 trials, including 1,571 participants.
Regarding results, it was found that acupuncture significantly reduced severity metrics of sleep quality and depression for patients who have active depression, compared with placebo-acupuncture. When contrasted with standard care (antidepressants and/or sleeping aids), acupuncture led to improvements in sleep quality and depressive symptom scores. However, for those suffering from the lingering symptoms of past or partially treated depression, the therapeutic benefits of acupuncture were minor and not statistically noteworthy. Unfortunately, no studies were found to review acupuncture's efficacy compared to cognitive-behavioral therapy or its potential synergistic effect when used concurrently.
The Role of Acupuncture in the Management of Insomnia as a Major or Residual Symptom Among Patients With Active or Previous Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Zhao FY, Kennedy GA, Spencer SJ, Conduit R, Zhang WJ, Fu QQ, Zheng Z
2022 Frontiers in Psychiatry
Acupuncture can be a safe and effective alternative therapy to conventional drugs for improving sleep quality and relieving symptoms in patients with active depression.
The research methodology involved a systematic review of randomized controlled trials focusing on the effect of acupuncture on depression-related insomnia. These studies were identified from seven different databases, dating up until December 2021. The papers included compared acupuncture to controls (waiting list or placebo/sham acupuncture) and conventional treatments (Western pharmacotherapy and/or cognitive-behavioral therapy) either alone or in combination with acupuncture. The analysis followed Cochrane criteria and encompassed a total of 21 trials, including 1,571 participants.
Regarding results, it was found that acupuncture significantly reduced severity metrics of sleep quality and depression for patients who have active depression, compared with placebo-acupuncture. When contrasted with standard care (antidepressants and/or sleeping aids), acupuncture led to improvements in sleep quality and depressive symptom scores. However, for those suffering from the lingering symptoms of past or partially treated depression, the therapeutic benefits of acupuncture were minor and not statistically noteworthy. Unfortunately, no studies were found to review acupuncture's efficacy compared to cognitive-behavioral therapy or its potential synergistic effect when used concurrently.
The Role of Acupuncture in the Management of Insomnia as a Major or Residual Symptom Among Patients With Active or Previous Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Zhao FY, Kennedy GA, Spencer SJ, Conduit R, Zhang WJ, Fu QQ, Zheng Z
2022 Frontiers in Pharmacology
Chinese herbal medicine was effective in treating coronary heart disease patients with anxiety or depression, particularly in improving angina pectoris, and its active compounds could act on the pathological targets of CHD, anxiety, and depression.
The meta-analysis of 32 studies found that Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) was more effective in treating anxiety and depression in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) compared to control groups, and the efficacy of CHM was similar to Western medicine. Additionally, CHM was shown to improve angina stability in CHD patients with anxiety or depression better than control and Western medicine groups. The study identified the main underlying mechanisms to involve anti-damage/apoptosis, anti-inflammation, antioxidative stress, and maintaining neurotransmitter homeostasis, with certain herbal compounds being most related to CHD, anxiety, and depression.
Evidence and Characteristics of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Coronary Heart Disease Patients With Anxiety or Depression: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review Wang B, Teng Y, Li Y, Lai S, Wu Y, Chen S, Li T, Han X, Zhou H, Wang Y, Lu Z, Li H, Ding Y, Ma L, Zhao M, Wang X
2022 Plants
The traditional Chinese medicine Gan Mai Da Zao Tang may lessen depressive behaviors in rats, likely through licorice increasing serotonin transporter and brain-derived neurotrophic factor signals in the hippocampus.
This study experimentally examined the antidepressant impacts of Gan-Mai-Da-Zao (GMDZ), a Chinese traditional medicine that contains blighted wheat, licorice, and jujube. The researchers used an unpredictable chronic mild stress model in rats, some of whom received an injection with p-chlorophenylalanine to generate a chemical model for depression. The investigators employed behavioral tests, including forced swim tests, open field tests, and sucrose preference tests, to evaluate the chronic influence of GMDZ.
The oral application of GMDZ over 21 days considerably eased depressive behaviors in rats induced by either the unpredictable chronic mild stress or p-chlorophenylalanine. The treatment increased the expression of the serotonin transporter and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the hippocampus in the rats with depression. However, rats provided with a similar herbal mixture that did not include licorice showed a significantly worse response, suggesting that licorice may play an essential role in the efficacy of GMDZ in combatting depression-like behaviors.
Major Plant in Herbal Mixture Gan-Mai-Da-Zao for the Alleviation of Depression in Rat Models Li YX, Cheng KC, Hsu CT, Cheng JT, Yang TT
2021 Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
Cocoa-rich products consumption can improve mood and affect in the short term.
The study carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis in line with PRISMA guidelines to ascertain the effects of cocoa-derived food on depressive and anxiety symptoms, as well as positive and negative affect. Potential sources were found on Web of Knowledge and PsycINFO until April 3, 2020. Out of 761 documents screened, nine studies were picked. Two trials were involved in examining the long-term impact (>1 week) of cocoa consumption, two reviewed the short-term effects (3 days), and five studies were conducted in acute conditions (single administration).
The results indicate that cocoa-rich products had a significant overall effect on reducing depressive and anxiety symptoms. There was also significant improvement in both positive and negative affect. The effect size in all meta-analyses was medium, while the heterogeneity was low. Despite these promising outcomes, the conclusions must be cautiously interpreted due to the short duration of the trials and the limited number of participants and studies included in the meta-analyses.
The effect of cocoa-rich products on depression, anxiety, and mood: A systematic review and meta-analysis Fusar-Poli L, Gabbiadini A, Ciancio A, Vozza L, Signorelli MS, Aguglia E
2020 Molecules
Shaded gardening of Japanese matcha creates high-quality tea with unique compounds that can boost physical and mental health.
This study reviewed and compiled health benefits of matcha tea, a type of powdered green tea grown traditionally in Japan with plants shaded during growth. This shading process promotes the synthesis and accumulation of unique biologically active compounds, which includes theanine, caffeine, chlorophyll, and a variety of catechins, with matcha offering a condensed source of these elements. The review indicated that matcha is considered the highest quality tea due to its distinctive chemical composition and prized flavor.
In discussing the results, a major conclusion reached was that matcha tea has effective health-promoting attributes due to the tea's high content of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances. Such benefits have largely been credited to its significant proportion of catechins - a type of phenolic compound beneficial to human health. The high antioxidant potential of the tea and its subsequent ability to help prevent various diseases and support cognitive function underscores the value in regular consumption of matcha for not only physical health, but also mental health.
Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review Kochman J, Jakubczyk K, Antoniewicz J, Mruk H, Janda K
2020 Artificial Cells, Nanomedicine, and Biotechnology
Chrysanthemum morifolium, Naringenin and Apigenin can alleviate depression-like behavior by interfering with specific metabolic pathways.
In this study, the researchers decided to evaluate the impact of Chrysanthemum morifolium, Naringenin, and Apigenin on depression-like behaviors instigated specifically by corticosterone. These substances, which are the primary active ingredients in the aqueous extract of C. morifolium and are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, were analyzed regarding their therapeutic properties for depression. Researchers analyzed behavior and biochemical indicators tied to depression to understand the effects of these substances on a modeled depression scenario.
In the discussion of results, the authors highlight that these substances demonstrated antidepressant properties through their interference with certain metabolic pathways. These pathways include tryptophan metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, citrate cycle, niacin and niacinamide metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, and alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism. The effects were further explained on the basis of material and energy metabolism. Moreover, it was noted that Naringenin could potentially be used as a replacement for Chrysanthemum morifolium with similar beneficial outcomes; while Apigenin paralleled the function of other positive drugs targeting depression.
A metabolomic study on the anti-depressive effects of two active components from Chrysanthemum morifolium Liu T, Zhou N, Xu R, Cao Y, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Zheng X, Feng W
2020 Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
Acupuncture is associated with a reduction in the risk of depression during long-term follow-up in patients with trigeminal neuralgia.
In total, 776 patients with newly diagnosed trigeminal neuralgia in each cohort with similar baseline characteristics were enrolled in the study. The acupuncture cohort had a reduced risk of depression compared to the non-acupuncture cohort. Kaplan–Meier analysis also revealed that the cumulative incidence of depression was significantly lower in the acupuncture cohort during the 13-year follow-up period. In particular, the beneficial effect of acupuncture was a decrease in the risk of depression among TN patients aged 50– 69 years who had also used carbamazepine.
Long-Term Beneficial Effects of Acupuncture with Reduced Risk of Depression Development Following Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study Liao CC, Lin CL, Liao KR, Li JM
2020 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
In the treatment of chronic pain with depression, acupuncture could not only achieve better clinical efficacy, but also have higher safety compared with conventional mediation therapy.
Acupuncture has a promising application prospect due to its unique advantages for the treatment of chronic pain with depression comorbidity, which can be used in patients suffering from some certain chronic pain with depression comorbidity with poorer response to the conventional medication or suffering from serious side effects.
Effect of Acupuncture on Chronic Pain with Depression: A Systematic Review Yan B, Zhu S, Wang Y, Da G, Tian G
2020 Integrative Cancer Therapies
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan can potentially alleviate symptoms of cancer-related insomnia similarly to cognitive-behavioral therapy.
In this study, 22 participants were divided equally between a group given Cheonwangbosimdan and a control group who received cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia. Participants in the Cheonwangbosimdan group were required to consume the herbal liquid daily and participate in weekly visits for a period of four weeks. Conversely, the control group underwent behavioral therapy sessions 4 times over the same four-week period.
The outcomes from these interventions were evaluated using key indices that measured participants' insomnia severity, sleep quality, fatigue, anxiety, and overall performance status. With the focus being on changes observed from the inception of the trial to the end, these measurements were taken at the conclusion of the fifth week. While no significant difference was found between the two study groups, both displayed a positive trend towards alleviating the symptoms of cancer-related insomnia, with anxiety levels markedly lower in the treatment group.
Comparative Effectiveness of Cheonwangbosimdan (Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan) Versus Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia in Cancer Patients: A Randomized, Controlled, Open-Label, Parallel-Group, Pilot Trial Moon SY, Jerng UM, Kwon OJ, Jung SY, Lee JY, Yoon SW, Shin WC, Byun JI, Lee JH
2020 Scientific African
Pumpkin seeds carry bioactive compounds with potential benefits such as antidiabetic, antidepressant, antioxidant, antitumor, and cytoprotective activities, also aiding in microbiological infections and specific organ disorders.
The methodology utilised an in-depth literature review, compiling evidence-based data from various electronic databases such as ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar up until January 2020. The focus of the gathered literature was the potential use of pumpkin seeds as a functional food ingredient and assessing the associated biological mechanisms of the bioactive compounds within the seeds.
Pumpkin seeds, despite being small, are rich in a wide variety of beneficial nutrients such as amino acids, phytosterols, unsaturated fatty acids, phenolic compounds, tocopherols, cucurbitacins and valuable minerals. The bioactive compounds found within these seeds have shown multiple promising activities. They possess anthelmintic, antidiabetic, antidepressant, antioxidant, antitumor and cytoprotective properties. Additionally, they demonstrate potentials for addressing microbiological infections and specific disorders related to liver and prostate. The compiled literature strongly suggests that pumpkin seeds can be used as both a traditional and functional food ingredient due to the wide array of health benefits they offer.
The potential of pumpkin seeds as a functional food ingredient: A review Dotto JM, Chacha JS
2019 Frontiers in Psychiatry
Evidence indicates that acupuncture treatment may be of benefit in several neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease.
The pathophysiology of these disorders may be associated with glutamate dysregulation, marked by a high rate of glutamate release and elevated expression of glutamate receptors and glutamate transporters in the CNS. The ability of acupuncture stimulation to modulate glutamate receptor and EAAT expression suggests that the treatment effects of acupuncture are underpinned by its intervention in the dysregulated glutamate system. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to clarify the possible mechanisms of acupuncture in these neuropsychiatric disorders and to establish protocols for treatment guidelines.
The Effects of Acupuncture on Glutamatergic Neurotransmission in Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease: A Review of the Literature Tu CH, MacDonald I, Chen YH
2019 Frontiers in Psychiatry
Evidence indicates that acupuncture treatment may be of benefit in several neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease.
The pathophysiology of these disorders may be associated with glutamate dysregulation, marked by a high rate of glutamate release and elevated expression of glutamate receptors and glutamate transporters in the CNS. The ability of acupuncture stimulation to modulate glutamate receptor and EAAT expression suggests that the treatment effects of acupuncture are underpinned by its intervention in the dysregulated glutamate system. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to clarify the possible mechanisms of acupuncture in these neuropsychiatric disorders and to establish protocols for treatment guidelines.
The Effects of Acupuncture on Glutamatergic Neurotransmission in Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease: A Review of the Literature Tu CH, MacDonald I, Chen YH
2019 Frontiers in Neuroscience
Gan Mai Da Zao decoction has shown comparable anxiolytic effects to Diazepam and Buspirone in mice, possibly regulated by serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors.
The mice were given the Gan-Mai-Da-Zao (GMDZ) decoction orally at different concentrations for a week, with Diazepam and Buspirone serving as positive controls. Anxiety-level testing was conducted using a combination of the elevated plus-maze, light/dark box, marble burying, open field, and rota-rod tests, providing a comprehensive assessment of the decoction's effects on mice.
Furthermore, the anxiolytic effects that GMDZ induced in the mice were challenged by the application of Flumazenil, a gamma-aminobutyric acid-A receptor antagonist, and WAY-100635, a serotonin-1A receptor antagonist. They found that the effects were successfully inhibited, indicating that the mechanism of action of GMDZ could be linked to both the serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors in the nervous system, thereby reducing anxiety-like behavior in mice.
GABA and 5-HT Systems Are Involved in the Anxiolytic Effect of Gan-Mai-Da-Zao Decoction Chen HS, Gu LJ, Yang YX, Guo JY
2018 Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang, a traditional herbal formula, produced substantial antidepressant-like effects in rats by regulating monoamine neurotransmitters.
The researchers studied the antidepressant effects of Gan-Mai-Da-Zao-Tang and its constituent ingredients in rats subjected to the forced swim test. 72 male Nerl: Wistar rats aged 8 weeks were divided into groups receiving either a control solution, licorice, wheat, jujube, Gan-Mai-Da-Zao-Tang in a specific ratio, or Prozac. These substances were administered orally for 21 days. On the final day, the forced swimming test was performed which initially involved a pretest lasting 15 minutes followed by a 5 minute real test. Following this, the rats were euthanized and their brain tissues were collected for analysis of monoamine concentrations.
Discussion on the results revealed that the Gan-Mai-Da-Zao-Tang group exhibited significantly reduced immobility time and certain monoamine turnover rates, and showed an increase in concentration of some neurotransmitters in the brain tissues compared to the control group. This indicates a potent antidepressant-like effect by modulating these monoamines concentrations. In contrast, the licorice, wheat, and jujube groups didn't display significant differences when compared with the control group. Prozac, the positive control, resulted in significant reductions in body weight and appetite.
Antidepressant-like effects of Gan-Mai-Dazao-Tang via monoamine regulatory pathways on forced swimming test in rats Huang HL, Lim SL, Lu KH, Sheen LY
2009 The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture may have a beneficial effect on insomnia compared with Western medication.
Forty-six (46) randomized trials involving 3811 patients were included, and the methodological quality of trials was generally fair in terms of randomization, blinding, and intention-to-treat analysis. Meta-analyses showed a beneficial effect of acupuncture compared with no treatment and real acupressure compared with sham acupressure on total scores of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Acupuncture was superior to medications regarding the number of patients with total sleep duration increased for >3 hours. However, there was no difference between acupuncture and medications in average sleep duration. Acupuncture plus medications showed better effect than medications alone on total sleep duration. Similarly, acupuncture plus herbs was significantly better than herbs alone on increase of sleep rates. There were no serious adverse effects with related to acupuncture treatment in the included trials.
Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials Cao H, Pan X, Li H, Liu J.
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Scientific References
Browse our collection of scientific clinical research on acupuncture for mental health.
It includes recent and reputable papers published by peer-reviewed journals within the last 10 years.
2023, Apr 04
Vitamin D in Depression: A Potential Bioactive Agent to Reduce Suicide and Suicide Attempt Risk
Nutrients
Several studies have shown that deficiencies in this vitamin reduce the immunomodulation of inflammation and serotonin synthesis, two processes associated with depression and suicidal attempts. Therefore, it supports the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation in reducing symptoms of depression and a possible indirect effect in the prevention of suicide and suicide attempts.
Somoza-Moncada MM, Turrubiates-Hernández FJ, Muñoz-Valle JF, Gutiérrez-Brito JA, DÃaz-Pérez SA, Aguayo-Arelis A, Hernández-Bello J Full Article
2023, Sep
Effects of Pueraria lobata root and Glycine max (L.) Merrill extracts fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on the depressive-like behavior in ovariectomized mice via upregulation of hippocampal BDNF
Journal of Functional Foods
Fermented P. lobata root extract (FPE), fermented G. max (L.) Merrill extract (FGE), and a mixture of the two extracts (FPE-FGE) can be used as a raw material for the development of dietary supplements for menopausal women as they increase ERβ expression and alleviate depressive-like behavior through the regulation of BDNF and neurotransmitters.
Ha J, Jang HM, Choi I Full Article
2022, Jun 27
Modified Xiaochaihu Decoction Combined with Mirtazapine in the Treatment of Persistent Depression: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Frontiers in Pharmacology
Modified Xiaochaihu Decoction combined with mirtazapine effectively treats persistent depressive disorder (PDD), and its curative effect is better than that of TCM alone.
Xin Li, Xiuyu Li, Man Gong, Chaoqun Li, Jing Li, Chao Zhou, Tingting He Full Article
2022, Dec 31
Effect of Acupuncture on Physical Symptoms and Quality of Life in Treatment-Resistant Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder: a Single-Arm Longitudinal Study
Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies Medical Association of Pharmacopuncture Institute
Acupuncture may improve not only psychiatric symptoms but also physical symptoms and QoL in patients with treatment-resistant mood disorders. Further studies are required for confirmation of the preliminary data collected thus far.
Matsuura Y, Hongo S, Taniguchi H, Yasuno F, Sakai T Full Article
2022, Apr 06
Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Xiao Yao San as a Treatment for Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
The available evidence suggests that oral Xiaoyao San (XYS) alone or in combination with anxiolytic agents is more effective and safer than anxiolytic treatment alone when used for the treatment of anxiety disorders (AD).
Lin J, Ji Y, Si J, Wang G, Li X, Shen L Full Article
2022, May 05
Evidence and Characteristics of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Coronary Heart Disease Patients With Anxiety or Depression: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Frontiers in Pharmacology
Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) exhibited an obvious efficacy in treating coronary heart disease (CHD) patients with anxiety or depression, especially for improving the symptom of angina pectoris. The most active compounds of CHM could simultaneously act on the pathological targets of CHD, anxiety, and depression. Multiple effective components and multiple targets were the advantages of CHM compared with WM.
Wang B, Teng Y, Li Y, Lai S, Wu Y, Chen S, Li T, Han X, Zhou H, Wang Y, Lu Z, Li H, Ding Y, Ma L, Zhao M, Wang X Full Article
2022, Jan
Consumption of 85% cocoa dark chocolate improves mood in association with gut microbial changes in healthy adults: a randomized controlled trial
The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry
Dark chocolate exerts prebiotic effects, as evidenced by its ability to restructure the diversity and abundance of intestinal bacteria; thus, it may improve negative emotional states via the gut-brain axis.
Shin JH, Kim CS, Cha L, Kim S, Lee S, Chae S, Chun WY, Shin DM Full Article
2022, Jul 14
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Functional Dyspepsia With Psychological Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Frontiers in Neuroscience
The current evidence shows that CHM treatment has great potential and safety in alleviating the symptoms of FD and improving the psychological disorders of anxiety and depression in patients with FD.
Luo X, Wang L, Fang S, Qing X, Jiang T, Yang Y, Su X, Wei W Full Article
2022, Apr 15
The Role of Acupuncture in the Management of Insomnia as a Major or Residual Symptom Among Patients With Active or Previous Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Frontiers in Psychiatry
There is a low to moderate level of evidence supporting acupuncture as a safe and effective remedy alternative to or adjuvant to conventional pharmacotherapy (antidepressant and/or hypnotic) in improving insomnia and other depression symptoms among patients with active depression. Furthermore, the patients' complaint of disrupted sleep continuity is most likely to benefit from acupuncture. The benefit of acupuncture on residual insomnia associated with previous or partially remitted depression is limited. Future acupuncture studies need to consider applying optimal dosage and addressing deficiencies in trial quality.
Zhao FY, Kennedy GA, Spencer SJ, Conduit R, Zhang WJ, Fu QQ, Zheng Z Full Article
2022, Jan 19
Major Plant in Herbal Mixture Gan-Mai-Da-Zao for the Alleviation of Depression in Rat Models
Plants
The present study confirmed the antidepressant-like effects of Gan-Mai-Da-Zao (GMDZ). Additionally, licorice (Gan Cao) may play a key role in the effectiveness of GMDZ.
Li YX, Cheng KC, Hsu CT, Cheng JT, Yang TT Full Article
2021, May 10
The effect of cocoa-rich products on depression, anxiety, and mood: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
The study concluded that the consumption of cocoa-rich products may improve affect and mood in the short term.
Fusar-Poli L, Gabbiadini A, Ciancio A, Vozza L, Signorelli MS, Aguglia E Full Article
2020, Dec 27
Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review
Molecules
The Japanese powdered green tea, matcha, contains high amounts of substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It has promising potential health benefits, mainly through a high concentration of catechins. With regular consumption, it may support the body’s efforts to maintain health and prevent disease.
Kochman J, Jakubczyk K, Antoniewicz J, Mruk H, Janda K Full Article
2020, Jan 01
A metabolomic study on the anti-depressive effects of two active components from Chrysanthemum morifolium
Artificial Cells, Nanomedicine, and Biotechnology
Chr, Nar, and Api exerted anti-depressant effects through interfering with various metabolic pathways, suggesting their potential use in treating depression.
Liu T, Zhou N, Xu R, Cao Y, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Zheng X, Feng W Full Article
2020, Dec
Long-Term Beneficial Effects of Acupuncture with Reduced Risk of Depression Development Following Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
The systematic review and meta-analysis also concluded that the therapeutic efficacy of acupuncture is highly effective alone and combined with antidepressant medication.
Liao CC, Lin CL, Liao KR, Li JM Full Article
2020, Jun 25
Effect of Acupuncture on Chronic Pain with Depression: A Systematic Review
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture has a promising application prospect due to its unique advantages for the treatment of chronic pain with depression comorbidity, which can be used in patients suffering from some certain chronic pain with depression comorbidity with poorer response to the conventional medication or suffering from serious side effects. High-quality RCTs are needed to support the current clinical application of acupuncture for the treatment of chronic pain with depression comorbidity and to broaden the clinical application.
Yan B, Zhu S, Wang Y, Da G, Tian G Full Article
2020, Jan
Comparative Effectiveness of Cheonwangbosimdan (Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan) Versus Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia in Cancer Patients: A Randomized, Controlled, Open-Label, Parallel-Group, Pilot Trial
Integrative Cancer Therapies
There is no difference between treatment and control groups, but both groups showed tendency to alleviate cancer insomnia symptoms. However, treatment group score was highly lowered than control group score. The study can contribute to more attentive care for insomnia in cancer patients.
Moon SY, Jerng UM, Kwon OJ, Jung SY, Lee JY, Yoon SW, Shin WC, Byun JI, Lee JH Full Article
2020, Nov
The potential of pumpkin seeds as a functional food ingredient: A review
Scientific African
Pumpkin seeds are densely packed with essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, including amino acids, phytosterols, unsaturated fatty acids, phenolic compounds, tocopherols, cucurbitacins, and valuable minerals. These bioactive compounds contribute to various health benefits, including anthelmintic, antidiabetic, antidepressant, antioxidant, antitumor, and cytoprotective activities. Additionally, pumpkin seeds show potential in ameliorating microbiological infections, hepatic and prostate disorders. Further animal and clinical investigations are needed to establish the molecular mechanisms and safety profile of pumpkin seeds for use as both traditional and functional food ingredients.
Dotto JM, Chacha JS Full Article
2019, Feb 12
The Effects of Acupuncture on Glutamatergic Neurotransmission in Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease: A Review of the Literature
Frontiers in Psychiatry
We conclude that the treatment effects of acupuncture may be underpinned by its intervention in the dysregulated glutamate system. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to clarify the possible mechanisms of acupuncture in these neuropsychiatric disorders and to establish protocols for treatment guidelines.
Tu CH, MacDonald I, Chen YH Full Article
2019, Jan 22
GABA and 5-HT Systems Are Involved in the Anxiolytic Effect of Gan-Mai-Da-Zao Decoction
Frontiers in Neuroscience
The present data show that GMDZ decoction possesses strong anxiolytic-like effects in the EPM, LDB, and OF tests but did not alters locomotor activity and motor coordination. The antagonism experiments suggest that the mode of action for GMDZ is via the GABAergic and serotonergic systems.
Chen HS, Gu LJ, Yang YX, Guo JY Full Article
2018, Jan
Antidepressant-like effects of Gan-Mai-Dazao-Tang via monoamine regulatory pathways on forced swimming test in rats
Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
In conclusion, the antidepressant-like effects of Gan-Mai-Da-Zao-Tang (LWJ) might be mediated by the regulation of monoamine neurotransmitters.
Huang HL, Lim SL, Lu KH, Sheen LY Full Article
2009, Nov
Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Society for Acupuncture Research
Acupuncture appears to be effective in treatment of insomnia. Meta-analyses showed a beneficial effect of acupuncture compared with no treatment and real acupressure compared with sham acupressure on total scores of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Acupuncture was superior to medications regarding the number of patients with total sleep duration increased for >3 hours. Acupuncture plus medications showed better effect than medications alone on total sleep duration. Similarly, acupuncture plus herbs was significantly better than herbs alone on increase of sleep rates. There were no serious adverse effects with related to acupuncture treatment in the included trials.
Cao H, Pan X, Li H, Liu J. Full Article
“It is by virtue of the twelve channels that human life exists, that disease arises, that human beings can be treated and illness cured. The twelve channels are where beginners start and masters end.” The Classic of Acupuncture
Circa 1st Century BCE