Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Ligustilide is a phthalide compound found primarily in plants such as Angelica sinensis (Dong Quai) and Ligusticum chuanxiong, both of which are prominent in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In TCM, these herbs have been historically used for various conditions, including those categorized as mood disorders or "emotional imbalances," but not specifically depression as defined by modern criteria. The traditional use relates more to the general concepts of nourishing blood and promoting circulation, which are sometimes linked to symptoms resembling depression.

Scientific studies on ligustilide’s direct effects on depression are limited and mostly preclinical. Some animal studies suggest ligustilide may have neuroprotective effects and could modulate neurotransmitter levels or exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which are mechanisms thought to be relevant in depression. However, these findings are preliminary, and high-quality clinical trials in humans are lacking. The evidence for its use in depression is therefore largely based on traditional use of the source herbs rather than robust scientific validation of ligustilide itself. Overall, the support for ligustilide in depression is mainly traditional, with weak scientific evidence at this time.

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