Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ginsenosides are the primary active components of ginseng, a traditional herbal remedy used in East Asian medicine. While ginseng has a long history of use for enhancing vitality and mood, the specific application of ginsenosides for depression is supported by a limited but growing body of scientific research. Preclinical studies (mainly in animal models) have shown that ginsenosides may exert antidepressant-like effects, potentially through modulation of neurotransmitter systems (such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine), reduction of inflammation, regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and neuroprotective actions. Some small-scale human studies and reviews suggest that ginsenosides might help alleviate symptoms of depression, particularly mild to moderate forms or depressive symptoms associated with fatigue and chronic illness. However, the overall quality and quantity of clinical evidence is modest, with most studies being preliminary, lacking large sample sizes, or not employing rigorous randomized controlled trial designs. As such, while there is a scientific basis for the potential antidepressant effects of ginsenosides, further high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety for this indication. This leads to a moderate evidence rating of 2 out of 5.

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