Open AccessMechanisms of Panax ginseng action as an antidepressant
Author(s) -
Jin Yang,
Cui Ranji,
Zhao Lihong,
Fan Jie,
Li Bingjin
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
cell proliferation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.647
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1365-2184
pISSN - 0960-7722
DOI - 10.1111/cpr.12696
Subject(s) - ginseng , monoamine neurotransmitter , antidepressant , traditional medicine , pharmacology , neurotransmitter , araliaceae , medicine , serotonin , psychiatry , alternative medicine , central nervous system , receptor , anxiety , pathology
Objectives Panax ginseng, a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine with multiple pharmacological activities, plays a crucial role in modulating mood disorders. Several recent studies have identified an underlying role of Panax ginseng in the prevention and treatment of depression. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Materials and Methods In this review, we summarized the recent progress of antidepressant effects and underlying mechanisms of Panax ginseng and its representative herbal formulae. Results The molecular and cellular mechanisms of Panax ginseng and its herbal formulae include modulating monoamine neurotransmitter system, upregulating the expression of neurotrophic factors, regulating the function of HPA axis, and anti‐inflammatory action. Conclusions Therefore, this review may provide theoretical bases and clinical applications for the treatment of depression by Panax ginseng and its representative herbal formulae.