Medicinal Plants for Child Mental Health: Clinical Insights, Active Compounds, and Perspectives for Rational Use

Area of Science:

• Integrative medicine
• Pediatric mental health
• Phytotherapy

Background:

• Anxiety, agitation, and mood disturbances are prevalent in children and adolescents.
• Conventional treatments have limitations for pediatric mental health, especially for mild conditions.
• Phytotherapy (herbal medicine) is gaining interest as a complementary approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• Critically evaluate clinical evidence for herbal medicines and botanical supplements in pediatric mental health.
• Explore the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the activity of these natural products.
• Assess the potential and limitations of phytotherapy for youth mental health.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search for clinical trials on herbal products for pediatric psychological symptoms.
• Included registered herbal medicines and authorized food supplements evaluating behavioral or cognitive outcomes.
• Performed bioinformatic analyses to predict molecular targets of selected phytocompounds.

Main Results:

• Identified 29 clinical trials: 18 for pathological conditions (ADHD, anxiety, depression) and 11 for borderline symptoms (agitation, sleep disturbances).
• Herbal products with clinical promise include Bacopa monnieri, Crocus sativus, Ginkgo biloba, Hypericum perforatum, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Panax ginseng, Passiflora incarnata, Pinus pinaster, Valeriana officinalis, and Withania somnifera.
• Bioinformatic analysis suggested polypharmacological activity targeting neuroinflammation, neuroprotection, and neurotransmitter pathways.

Conclusions:

• Herbal products demonstrate potential for specific pediatric mental health indications.
• Standardized preparations and clinical supervision are crucial for safe and effective use.
• Further research is essential to guide dosing, safety, and integration into pediatric care strategies.