Best Nootropics for Depression and Mood

Nootropics that Improve Depression and Mood

Depression is no fun. It can corrode a good time, wreak havoc in one’s life, and ruin motivation. Depression may have many forbearing contributing factors, but it basically starts and ends in the brain.  And fortunately, there are many nootropics which provide an easy, natural solution, all in the form of a simple supplement. From traditional Eastern medicine to modern empirical studies, there are a variety of nootropic herbs which have been proven to reduce depression and give a positive, clear state of mind.

11 Herbs

Top 12 Nootropics That Help with Depression

Although there are many holistic approaches for combating depression, these nootropics are the top twelve best herbs for improving mood and decreasing a depressed state.

Ashwagandha

Stress and depression and debilitate the mind and body, but Ashwagandha can help.  The herb has been clinically studied to reduce overactivity of the mind and body, and promote recuperation and relaxation (Chevallier, 2016).  It can improve sleep, which also contributes to a positive mood and energy (2016).  Additionally, it contains adaptogenic benefits, especially in its supplement-extracted form (Murray & Pizzorno, 1998).  The herb has also been proven to reduce serum cortisol levels, giving the mind and body a better chance to promote an improved mood and state of being (1998).

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa Monnieri

As a nootropic adaptogen, the herb offers a number of “destressing” properties (The Nootropics Zone, 2017). These properties give the mind and body an opportunity to reach a mood-based equilibrium, where depression can be reduced (or even eliminated).   The herb has the ability to dramatically reduce tension, a feature supported by numerous clinical trials (2017).  Some of the other assets this nootropic brings to the table include the ability to reduce nervousness, palpitations, insomnia, headaches, and concentration (Beshara et al., 2019).  By reducing oxidative stresses, it provides antioxidant properties that also contribute to the reduction of depression and promotion of a positive mood (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013).

Huperzine A

Probably one of the best studied nootropics for combating depression is Huperzine A.  This herb has revealed the potential to lessen almost all attributes and symptoms of depression (Du et al., 2017).  It can regulate numerous neurotransmitter levels and alter depression-oriented behavior (2017).  It can also improve cognitive impairments which result from depressive disorder (Zheng et al., 2016).  The ability for this nootropic to alter these mood disorders comes from its ability to inhibit AChE.  Basically, it improves the balance of Ach levels in the brain and reduces the feelings of depression and anxiety alike (Higley & Picciotto, 2014).

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm has been used as an antidepressant for thousands of years (Shakeri et al., 2016).  The herb has been proven to enhance mood, a claim backed by many clinical trials (2016).  Lemon Balm is even referenced throughout ancient texts for its ability to “lift the spirits” (Chevallier, 2016).  It can reduce short-term depression, improve long-term health and longevity, and ease anxiety (2016).  It is one of the strongest nootropics when it comes to impacting overall mood (Scholey & Stough, 2011).

Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion's Mane

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is well-purported for its ability to decrease depression and improve mood (Beshara et al., 2019).  It can reduce negative symptoms of depression, and reduce anxiety.  Many notable studies back these claims, and support the herb’s ability to improve overall mood (Nagano et al., 2010).  The fungi’s ability to improve sleep contributes to an overall improved mental health (Vigna et al., 2019).  Some studies suggest the fungus could be an alternative treatment for depression altogether (Chong et al., 2019).

Longvida Curcumin

Longvida Curicumin’s ability to control mood is no new news.  The nootropic has been showcased several times for its ample mood-boosting ability (Cox et al., 2015), with most of these benefits stemming from its general health-promoting properties (2015).  Ultimately, Turmeric can enhance mood enough to combat depression (Ramaholimihaso et al., 2020).  It is a common alternative for treatment and management of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), as well as for reducing oxidative stress (2020).  Some recent studies have included FDDNP-PET scans which prove its ability to reduce plaque and tangle accumulation in the brain regions modulating mood (Small et al., 2018).

L-Theanine

L-Theanine is renowned for its ability to improve cognitive state and decrease depression (Ross, 2014). It is regularly used for its ability to reduce oxidative stress and promote calming effects on the mind (2014).  The nootropic also possesses powerful antioxidant properties which provide positive effects on mood and behavior (Dodd et al., 2015).  Many clinical trials have outlined its stress-reducing abilities, as well as its ability to promote an overall positive mental health (Hidese et al., 2019).  It has even been suggested that L-Theanine can improve dopamine, serotonin, and GABA neurotransmitter production in the brain (Nathan et al., 2016).

L-Tyrosine

L-Tyrosine is a strong anti-depressant nootropic, possessing the ability to improve dopamine and norepinephrine production in the brain (Alabsi et al., 2016).  It improves nerve cell communication and reduces stress, contributing to its ability to improve mood and combat negativity (Young, 2007).  There are a lot of studies which outline the herb’s natural ability to decrease depression symptoms (Alabsi et al., 2016).  One study in particular showed the herb’s non-essential amino acid’s ability to bolster motivation, improve mood, and produce massive dopamine (McTavish et al., 2005).

Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle is one of the best natural nootropics for depression, being first used in Europe for its mood-boosting properties (Chevallier, 2016).  The herb has been used in a lot of natural, hollistic remedies throughout the modern world, and clinical trials that back its use as an anti-depressant are pouring in (Ashraf et al., 2019).  One prominent study has proposed that the primary constituent of the herb, silymarin, can have powerful antidepressant effects due to its antioxidant-capabilities.  The same study also outlined the flavonoid’s ability to massively increase neurogenesis in the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus, contributing further to its antidepressant activity (2019).

Poria Mushroom

Poria Mushroom is a powerful, natural anti-depressant that can favorably impact mood (Huang et al., 2020).  It provides antioxidant effects which reduce anxeity and depression (Lin et al., 2012).  It is also well known for its ability to promote peaceful, relaxing sleep (Chen et al., 2010), which can also improve depression.

Red Reishi Mushroom

Red Reishi

Red Reishi Mushroom is commonly used to boost mood and reduce depression (Socala et al., 2015).  Many studies have outlined itsa bility to moderate mood, neurotransmitters in the brain, and anxiety (2015).  Other studies suggest that the mushroom’s higher water solubility makes it a wonderful antagonizer of the 5-HT2A receptors, helping the herb moderate anxiolytic-like effects and contributing to positive, balanced mood (Matsuzaki et al., 2013).

Rhodiola Crenulate

Rhodiola is a powerful adaptogen and general tonic, typically turned to for its ability to improve the entire mind and body in many facets (Orr, 2014).  It has been a huge part of Chinese and Ayurvedic traditional medicines, and is well-known for its ability to improve mental endurance.  Its strength in terms of an energy booster affords it the ability to modify mood and improve productivity (2014). These properties make it wonderful for decreasing stress and depression, alongside its purported ability to resist chemical and environmental stressors (Beshara et al., 2019).

Final Notes About Using Nootropics for Depression and Mood

Many nootropics and holistic herbs exist to help reduce depression, improve mood, and combat a poor sense of self.  Utilizing the nootropics on this list within their designated daily values, together or alone, can help improve life altogether.  While some are more effective than others for each individual, after a little trial and error, the correct nootropic for each system will become clear.  Any of these nootropics are a great start for improving mood and eliminating depression. Adding an anti-depression nootropic to a daily regimen is an excellent idea for almost any nootropic stack.

A Note From NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only.  We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

References:

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Alabsi, A., Khoudary, A., and Abdelwahed, W., (2016). The Antidepressant Effect of L-Tyrosine-Loaded Nanoparticles: Behavioral Aspects. Annals of Neurosciences. Vol. 23. Pp. 89-99. DOI: 10.1159/000443575

Ashraf, A., Mahmoud, P., Reda, H., Mansour, S., Helal, M., Michel, H., and Nasr, M. (2019). Silymarin and silymarin nanoparticles guard against chronic unpredictable mild stress induced depressive-like behavior in mice: involvement of neurogenesis and NLRP3 inflammasome. Journal of Psychopharmacology. Vol. 33(5). Pp. 615–631. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881119836221

Beshara, J., Engle, D., and Haynes, K. (2019). Beyond Coffee. Monocle Publishing. ISBN 9781544505459

Chen, R., Moriya, J., Yamakawa, J., Takahashi, T., and Kanda, T. (2010). Traditional chinese medicine for chronic fatigue syndrome. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. Vol. 7(1). Pp. 3–10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/ecam/nen017

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Chong, P., Fung, M., Wong, K., and Lim, L. (2019). Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder. International journal of molecular sciences. Vol. 21(1). Pp. 163. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21010163

Cox, K., Pipingas, A., and Scholey, A. (2015). Investigation of the effects of solid lipid curcumin on cognition and mood in a healthy older population. J Psychopharmacol. Vol. 29(5). Pp. 642-51. DOI: 10.1177/0269881114552744

Du., Y., Liang, H., Zhang, L., and Fu, F. (2017). Administration of Huperzine A exerts antidepressant-like activity in a rat model of post-stroke depression. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. Vol. 158. Pp. 32-38. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pbb.2017.06.002

Hidese, S., Ogawa, S., Ota, M., Ishida, I., Yasukawa, Z., Ozeki, M., and Kunugi, H. (2019). Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. Vol. 11(10). Pp. 2362. DOI: 10.3390/nu11102362

Higley, M., & Picciotto, M. R. (2014). Neuromodulation by acetylcholine: examples from schizophrenia and depression. Current opinion in neurobiology. Vol. 29. Pp. 88–95. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conb.2014.06.004

Huang, W., Chiu, W., Chuang, H., Tang, D., Lee, Z., Wei, L., Chen, F., and Huang, C. (2015). Effect of curcumin supplementation on physiological fatigue and physical performance in mice. Nutrients. Vol. 7(2). Pp. 905–921. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7020905

Lin, Z., Gu, J., Xiu, J., Mi, T., Dong, J., and Tiwari, J. K. (2012). Traditional chinese medicine for senile dementia. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. PMID: 21808655. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/692621

Matsuzaki, H., Shimizu, Y., Iwata, N., Kamiuchi, S., Suzuki, F., Iizuka, H., Hibino, Y., & Okazaki, M. (2013). Antidepressant-like effects of a water-soluble extract from the culture medium of Ganoderma lucidum mycelia in rats. BMC complementary and alternative medicine. Vol. 13. Pp. 370. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-13-370

McTavish, S., Mannie, Z., and Harmer, C. (2005). Lack of Effect of Tyrosine Depletion on Mood in Recovered Depressed Women. Neuropsychopharmacol. Vol. 30. Pp. 786–791. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.npp.1300665

Murray, M., and Pizzorno, J. (1998). The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Third Edition. Atria Paperback. ISBN 978-1-4516-6300-6

Nagano, M., Shimizu, K., Kondo, R., Hayashi, C., Sato, D., Kitagawa, K., and Ohnuki, K. (2010). Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. Vol. (4). Pp. 231-7. DOI: 10.2220/biomedres.31.231

Nathan, P., Lu, K., Gray, M., and Oliver, C., (2006). The Neuropharmacology of L-Theanine(N-Ethyl-LGlutamine). Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherpay. Vol. 6(2). Pp. 21-30. DOI: 10.1080/J157v06n02_02

Orr, S. (2014). The New American Herbal. Clarkson Potter Publishers. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-449-81993-7.

Ramaholimihaso, T., Bouazzaoui, F., and Kaladjian, A. (2020). Curcumin in Depression: Potential Mechanisms of Action and Current Evidence-A Narrative Review. Frontiers in psychiatry. Vol. 11. PMID: 33329109 DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.572533

Ross, S. (2014). L-theanine (suntheanin): effects of L-theanine, an amino acid derived from Camellia sinensis (green tea), on stress response parameters. Holist Nurs Pract. Vol. 28(1). Pp. 65-8. DOI: 10.1097/HNP.0000000000000009

Scholey, A., and Stough, C. (2011). 11 – Neurocognitive effects of herbal extracts. Behaviour and Psychiatric Illness. In Woodhead Publishing Series in Food Science, Technology and Nutrition, Lifetime Nutritional Influences on Cognition. Woodhead Publishing. Pp.272-297. ISBN 9781845697525. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1533/9780857092922.2.27

Shakeri, A., Sahebkar, A., and Javadi, B. (2016). Melissa officinalis L. —A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology. J Ethnopharmacol. Vol. 188. Pp. 204–228.

Small, G., Siddarth, P., Li, Z., Miller, K., Ercoli, L., Emerson, N., Martinez, J., Wong, K., Liu, J., Merrill, D., Chen, S., Henning, S., Satyamurthy, N., Huang, S., Heber, D., and Barrio, J. (2018).Memory and Brain Amyloid and Tau Effects of a Bioavailable Form of Curcumin in Non-Demented Adults: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled 18-Month Trial. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. Vol. 26(3). Pp. 266-277. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jagp.2017.10.010

Socala, K., Nieoczym, D., Grzywnowicz, K., Stefaniuk, D., and Wlaz, P. (2015). Evaluation of Anticonvulsant, Antidepressant-, and Anxiolytic-like Effects of an Aqueous Extract from Cultured Mycelia of the Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Higher Basidiomycetes) in Mice. Int J Med Mushrooms. Vol. 17(3). Pp. 209-18. DOI: 10.1615/intjmedmushrooms.v17.i3.10

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Best Nootropics for Anxiety, Stress, and Relaxation

Nootropics that Improve Anxiety and Reduce Stress

Finding a nootropic that can calm the nerves and improve an individual’s ability to relax is easier than one might realize. There are many nootropics for the task, but ten stand out as clear winners.  Utilizing the best nootropics for stress, it is possible to massively (if not entirely) reduce anxiety and lead a life of happiness and peace. These nootropics are most commonly consumed as a dietary supplement.  They are also typically used as a daily regimen, meaning they will work best as they are consumed daily, religiously every day, and at the same time every day.

Herbs

Top Ten Nootropic Herbs for Stress and Anxiety

Out of all the nootropics and holistic methods for reducing anxiety, ten nootropics could be showcased as the best herbs for reducing anxiety and treating stress. Although some herbs may be more effective for one individual over another, this list is officially being presented in alphabetical order.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the best known adaptogens in Eastern traditional medicine.  It has slowly made its way into Western culture, and more recently has been used as a holistic way to combat stress. It can be found in many well-respected writings and philosophical texts for its ability to help reduce anxiety and promote a calm, relaxing effect on the mind and body (Singh et al., 2011).

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is one of strongest nootropic herbs for stabilizing the mind and allowing the body to relax (Beshara et al., 2019).  It is a natural relaxation herb, giving the mind an opportunity to operate in its most pristine state.  There have been many studies which have proven Bacopa’s ability to significantly reduce anxiety.  This includes the ability to reduce anxiety-driven physiological symptoms such as nervousness, palpitations, insomnia, headaches, and more (2019).

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm has been used for a long time to decrease tension and improve calmness within the central nervous system (Chevallier, 2016).  The herb’s volatile oils (citral and citronellal) are primarily responsible for its stress-relieving properties.  There are also antispasmodic properties which aid the herb’s ability to relax the body and induce an overall calming effect within the CNS (2016).  There are even heart-calming effects which can have a positive impact on the body’s overall state as well (Steinhubl et al., 2015).

Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is one of the most versatile nootropic herbs.  The fungus is well-known to promote enhanced, calming moods and reduce overall negative symptoms of anxiety and stress (Beshara et al., 2019).  The fungus is used for its anxiety reducing effects in a series of clinical trials which sustain the benefit claims that it is an excellent treatment for stress of all types (Nagano et al., 2010).  Because Lion’s Mane so positively affects anxiety, it also improves sleep and has been considered an excellent anti-depressant as well (Vigna et al., 2019).

Longvida Curcumin

The ability for a nootropic to improve mood is one of the most powerful ways to combat anxiety symptoms.  Curcumin is able to significantly improve mood by invoking and retaining a state of calmness (Cox et al., 2015).  It improves overall health and has offered such low anxiety levels it is often considered a treatment for depression (Stohs et al., 2020).  Turmeric is also known to reduce oxidative stress, even decreasing plaque accumulation in the brain region modulating mood and anxiety (Ramaholimihaso et al., 2020).

L-Theanine

When it comes to stress-relieving herbs, L-Theanine is one of the best-known anxiety relievers throughout many Eastern cultures.  This is largely due to its ability to reduce and eliminate oxidative stress, allowing the mind and body to remain calm and focused (Ross, 2014).  Its antioxidant properties make it a wonderful mood booster (Dodd et al., 2015).  Many studies suggest its ability to relieve stress ailments and promote improved mental health (Hidese et al., 2019).

Panax Ginseng

Fresh Ginseng

As an adaptogen, Panax Ginseng is one of the strongest nootropics available. It is often turned to in stressful situations for its quick calming effects (Orr, 2014). It destresses the brain and allows the body a chance to relax. It is such a powerful adaptogen that it decreases the body’s natural worry about hunger, fatigue, and extreme temperature (Chevallier, 2016).  Furthermore, it helps regulate many of the body’s basic stressor symptoms and functions (Conkling & Wong, 2006).  For all of these reasons, Panax offers the body a great chance to improve overall mood.

Poria Mushroom

Poria Mushroom offers amazing relaxation properties, even being considered a natural anti-depressant (Huang et al., 2020).  Poria is even considered a holistic sedative in many cultures (2020). It is an effective antioxidant, helping the herb destress the mind and body (Lin et al., 2012). Its anti-stress properties are so strong it even promotes healthier sleep (Chen et al., 2010).

Red Reishi Mushroom

Red Reishi Mushroom has been well-known for its modern applications of relieving stress and providing the mind and body with antioxidant properties (Cor et al., 2018).  It has been known to improve longevity and offer extremely therapeutic effects (2018).  It is also commonly used as a powerful mood booster, providing so much stress relief it can reduce the seizure threshold (Socala et al., 2015).  Ultimately, it is one of the best nootropics for controlling mood (Matsuzaki et al., 2013).

Rhodiola Crenulate

Rhodiola Fresh Flowering

Rhodiola is one of the strongest nootropic adaptogens used around the world to improve the entire body to some extent or another (Orr, 2014).  The herb is extremely well-used throughout both Chinese and Ayurvedic traditional medicine.  It is also able to improve physical and mental endurance, which helps the body better cope with stress and improve work productivity (2014).  If that weren’t enough, Rhodiola can also improve the mind and body’s natural ability to resist chemical and environmental stressors (Beshara et al., 2019).

Final Notes About Using Nootropics for Anxiety

Although it may not be necessary, it is also possible to combine these nootropics, even all of them, within the established daily values the FDA advises, in a “super stack” to have a greater impact on anxiety. Depending upon the level of stress being experienced, it may make more sense for an individual to choose more than one of these anti-anxiety herbs. Still, some of the most commonly used herbs for anxiety will always remain those on this list, especially Ashwagandha, Bacopa monnieri, Lion’s Mane Mushroom, and Panax Ginseng.

A Note From NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only.  We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

References:

Beshara, J., Engle, D., and Haynes, K. (2019). Beyond Coffee. Monocle Publishing. ISBN 9781544505459

Chen, R., Moriya, J., Yamakawa, J., Takahashi, T., and Kanda, T. (2010). Traditional chinese medicine for chronic fatigue syndrome. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. Vol. 7(1). Pp. 3–10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/ecam/nen017

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Conkling, W. and Wong, D. (2006). The Complete Guide to Vitamins and Supplements: The Holistic Path to Good Health. Avon Health Publishing. New York, NY. ISBN: 978-0-06-076066-3.

Cör, D., Knez, Ž., and Knez Hrnčič, M. (2018). Antitumour, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antiacetylcholinesterase Effect of Ganoderma Lucidum Terpenoids and Polysaccharides: A Review. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). Vol. 23(3). Pp. 649. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules23030649

Cox, K., Pipingas, A., and Scholey, A. (2015). Investigation of the effects of solid lipid curcumin on cognition and mood in a healthy older population. J Psychopharmacol. Vol. 29(5). Pp. 642-51. DOI: 10.1177/0269881114552744

Dodd, F., Kennedy, D., Riby, L., and Haskell-Ramsay, C. (2015). A double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the effects of caffeine and L-theanine both alone and in combination on cerebral blood flow, cognition and mood. Psychopharmacology (Berl). Vol. 232(14). Pp. 2563-76. DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-3895-0

Hidese, S., Ogawa, S., Ota, M., Ishida, I., Yasukawa, Z., Ozeki, M., and Kunugi, H. (2019). Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. Vol. 11(10). Pp. 2362. DOI: 10.3390/nu11102362

Huang, Y., Hsu, N., Lu, K., Lin, Y., Lin, S., Lu, Y., Liu, W., Chen, M., and Sheen, L. (2020). Poria cocos water extract ameliorates the behavioral deficits induced by unpredictable chronic mild stress in rats by down-regulating inflammation. J Ethnopharmacol. Vol. 258. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112566

Lin, Z., Gu, J., Xiu, J., Mi, T., Dong, J., and Tiwari, J. K. (2012). Traditional chinese medicine for senile dementia. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. PMID: 21808655. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/692621

Matsuzaki, H., Shimizu, Y., Iwata, N., Kamiuchi, S., Suzuki, F., Iizuka, H., Hibino, Y., & Okazaki, M. (2013). Antidepressant-like effects of a water-soluble extract from the culture medium of Ganoderma lucidum mycelia in rats. BMC complementary and alternative medicine. Vol. 13. Pp. 370. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-13-370

Nagano, M., Shimizu, K., Kondo, R., Hayashi, C., Sato, D., Kitagawa, K., and Ohnuki, K. (2010). Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. Vol. (4). Pp. 231-7. DOI: 10.2220/biomedres.31.231

Orr, S. (2014). The New American Herbal. Clarkson Potter Publishers. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-449-81993-7.

Ramaholimihaso, T., Bouazzaoui, F., and Kaladjian, A. (2020). Curcumin in Depression: Potential Mechanisms of Action and Current Evidence-A Narrative Review. Frontiers in psychiatry. Vol. 11. PMID: 33329109 DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.572533

Ross, S. (2014). L-theanine (suntheanin): effects of L-theanine, an amino acid derived from Camellia sinensis (green tea), on stress response parameters. Holist Nurs Pract. Vol. 28(1). Pp. 65-8. DOI: 10.1097/HNP.0000000000000009

Socala, K., Nieoczym, D., Grzywnowicz, K., Stefaniuk, D., and Wlaz, P. (2015). Evaluation of Anticonvulsant, Antidepressant-, and Anxiolytic-like Effects of an Aqueous Extract from Cultured Mycelia of the Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Higher Basidiomycetes) in Mice. Int J Med Mushrooms. Vol. 17(3). Pp. 209-18. DOI: 10.1615/intjmedmushrooms.v17.i3.10

Singh, N., Bhalla, M., de Jager, P., & Gilca, M. (2011). An overview on ashwagandha: a Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM. Vol. 8(5 Suppl). Pp. 208–213. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4314/ajtcam.v8i5S.9

Steinhubl, S. R., Wineinger, N. E., Patel, S., Boeldt, D. L., Mackellar, G., Porter, V., Redmond, J. T., Muse, E. D., Nicholson, L., Chopra, D., & Topol, E. J. (2015). Cardiovascular and nervous system changes during meditation. Frontiers in human neuroscience. Vol. 9. Pp. 145. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2015.00145

Stohs, S., Chen, O., Ray, S., Ji, J., Bucci, L., and Preuss, H. (2020). Highly Bioavailable Forms of Curcumin and Promising Avenues for Curcumin-Based Research and Application: A Review. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). Vol. 25(6). Pp. 1397. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25061397 Vigna, L., Morelli, F., Agnelli, G., Napolitano, F.,et al., (2019). Hericium erinaceus Improves Mood and Sleep Disorders in Patients Affected by Overweight or Obesity: Could Circulating Pro-BDNF and BDNF Be Potential Biomarkers?.  Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Vol. 2019, Article ID 7861297. Pp. 1-12. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2019/7861297