In a study involving mice, curcumin (the active agent in the popular yellow-colored curry spice, turmeric) was found to exert anti-depressant effects. 10-80 mg/kg, i.p. curcumin was found to dose-dependently inhibit the immobility period, increase serotonin, increase dopamine, and inhibit monoamine oxidase enzymes. 20 mg/kg, i.p., curcumin was found to enhance the anti-immobility effect of subthreshold doses of anti-depressant drugs, including fluoxetine, venlafaxine, and bupropion.
When subthreshold doses of curcumin and anti-depressant drugs were used, a synergistic increase in serotonin (5-HT) levels was observed. When piperine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.), a bioavailability enhancer, was administered along with curcumin (20 and 40 mg/kg, i.p.), a potentiation of pharmacological, biochemical, and neurochemical activities was found.
The authors conclude that the results of this animal study suggest that, "The coadministration of curcumin along with piperine may prove to be a useful and potent natural antidepressant approach in the management of depression." Additional research is warranted.
That would be interesting to know. I remember seeing another study, perhaps about a year or more ago, also showing that curcumin prevent stress-induced depression (in rats).
Some people consider me a rat. Maybe I should try some?
Curcumin May Combat Depression
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