A study has found that Ayurvedic herbs such as ashwagandha and Indian pennywort could mitigate symptoms similar to depression in fruit flies, which are induced by persistent stress. The key role in bolstering stress resistance is attributed to chlorogenic acid present in these herbs.

Collaborative research by Mainz University and the BENFRA Center in the USA has uncovered the impacts of traditional Asian botanical products on depressive conditions.

Persistent stress exposure can precipitate depressive-like conditions characterized by diminished motivation, as seen in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Such conditions in the flies are evident through reduced mating behavior, a lesser inclination to consume sweet substances, and reluctance to overcome gaps in their environment.

However, traditional Asian medicinal plants have been observed by researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and the BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center to alleviate some symptoms when used as a preventive measure in these flies. Treated flies, despite stress, did not exhibit depressive behaviors. Findings about the two plant substances have been published in the journal Nutrients.

In depressed states, Drosophila’s motivation levels are inferred from their willingness to cross gaps. Centella asiatica leaves are shown in the background of the research illustration. Credit: Helen Hovoet, Hans-Hermann Huber.

Herbal Remedies for Stress in Ancient Medicine

The JGU research team, led by Professor Roland Strauss, utilizes Drosophila melanogaster to investigate stress resilience and its impact on the nervous system. Strauss explains that chronic stress can cause depressive-like states in fruit flies, evident through behavioral changes. His team collaborated with the BENFRA Center, focusing on botanicals that enhance neurological resilience in aging.

The Mainz researchers test botanical extracts and natural substances used in traditional Asian medicine and as dietary supplements. These plants often have high levels of biologically active substances, known as adaptogens, which can help the body cope with increased stress.

Adaptogens and sugar intake can counteract and prevent depressive-like states in Drosophila. Credit: Tim Hermanns.

Holvoet, a doctoral student and lead author, notes that medicinal plants contain various active substances that target different aspects of the stress axis. Their synergistic effect could reduce undesirable side effects compared to pure substances. Dietary supplements may also complement pharmacotherapies.

Discoveries in Ayurvedic Plant Research

Strauss’ team tested two Ayurvedic plants, Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) and Centella asiatica (Indian pennywort), for stress treatment. Their findings show that both plants, when used preventively, enhanced resilience to chronic stress, preventing the onset of depressive states in stressed flies.

Identifying Key Elements in Stress Management

Dr. Burkhard Poeck notes that preparation methods of Withania somnifera roots matter, with aqueous extracts showing better prophylactic effects than alcohol-based ones.

More remarkable results were obtained with Centella asiatica, identifying chlorogenic acid as an anti-stress agent. Chlorogenic acid is also found in other medicinal herbs like valerian and St. John’s wort, known for their stress-relieving properties.

This research not only sheds light on the effects of these substances on neuronal stress but also provides insights for resilience research. Professor Strauss highlights the identification of a target protein for chlorogenic acid in Drosophila, the protein phosphatase calcineurin, which is abundantly present in the human nervous system and involved in numerous signaling pathways.

References:

1. “Chlorogenic Acids, Acting via Calcineurin, Are the Main Compounds in Centella asiatica Extracts That Mediate Resilience to Chronic Stress in Drosophila melanogaster” by Helen Holvoet et al., Nutrients.
   DOI: 10.3390/nu15184016

2. “Withania somnifera Extracts Promote Resilience against Age-Related and Stress-Induced Behavioral Phenotypes in Drosophila melanogaster; a Possible Role of Other Compounds besides Withanolides” by Helen Holvoet et al., Nutrients.
   DOI: 10.3390/nu14193923

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ayurvedic Depression Treatment

More about Ayurvedic Depression Treatment

• Ashwagandha and Depression
• Chlorogenic Acid in Stress Management
• Fruit Flies and Ayurvedic Research
• Mainz University’s Herbal Study
• BENFRA Center’s Botanical Research
• Traditional Medicine and Stress Resilience
• Ayurvedic Plants in Modern Science