Selected Medicinal Plants in the Alleviation of Depression, Sleep Disorders, Stress, and Related Mental Disorders
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/JEHS.2026.94.72857Keywords
depression, sleep disorders, stress, phytotherapy, medicinal plantsAbstract
Depression, sleep disorders, and chronic stress constitute a significant public health problem and are among the most common disorders affecting mental, social, and professional functioning. Recent years have seen a growing interest in methods supporting the treatment of mental disorders, including the use of medicinal plants with potential antidepressant, sedative, and hypnotic effects. The aim of this study was to analyze the properties of selected medicinal plants used to alleviate the symptoms of depression, sleep disorders, stress, and related mental disorders, as well as to assess their effectiveness and safety based on the available scientific literature. This paper reviews domestic and international literature on the biological and therapeutic effects of selected plant species, such as Hypericum perforatum, Valeriana officinalis, Melissa officinalis, Lavandula angustifolia, Passiflora incarnata, and Withania somnifera. Their active ingredients, mechanisms of action, and possible effects on the nervous system, stress levels, sleep quality, and depressive symptoms are discussed. Analysis of available research indicates that selected medicinal plants may have a beneficial supportive effect in the treatment of mood disorders, reducing mental stress, and improving sleep quality. The strongest evidence supports the antidepressant effects of St. John's wort and the sedative and sleep-inducing properties of valerian, lemon balm, and lavender. At the same time, caution is emphasized when using herbal preparations due to the potential for adverse effects and interactions with synthetic drugs.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Maja Gałuszka, Adrianna Adamczyk, Aleksandra Gałuszka, Karolina Mazur, Renata Gałuszka, Milena Adamczyk, Maciej Szabelski, Grzegorz Gałuszka, Natalia Sulkowska, Iga Domańska
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