Basil (Ocimum basilicum) to Alleviate Anxiety in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Placebo‐Controlled Clinical Trial

TL;DR

Basil syrup may help reduce anxiety and depression in patients with major depressive disorder, according to a clinical trial.

Contribution

This study is the first to show basil syrup's effectiveness in reducing anxiety and depression in MDD patients.

Findings

Basil syrup significantly reduced anxiety scores compared to placebo.

Depression scores also decreased in the basil group.

Basil was found to be safe and well-tolerated.

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a widespread global mood disorder, often accompanied by anxiety as a common symptom. This study assessed the effectiveness of basil (Ocimum basilicum) syrup in alleviating anxiety in patients with depression.

A randomized single‐blinded clinical trial was conducted at Dastgheib Psychiatric Clinic, Fasa University of Medical Sciences. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to receive either basil syrup or a placebo for 4 weeks. Anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM‐A) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), respectively, before and after the intervention.

The basil group showed significant reductions in HAM‐A and BDI scores compared to the placebo group (p value < 0.05).

Basil syrup could reduce anxiety in patients with MDD. However, further studies with a larger sample size and longer follow‐up period are necessary.

IRCT20230318057752N1

In a randomized placebo‐controlled trial, basil (Ocimum basilicum) syrup significantly reduced anxiety and depression scores in patients with major depressive disorder. Findings suggest basil extract as a safe, well‐tolerated complementary therapy alongside standard antidepressant treatment.

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