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Basil (Ocimum basilicum) to Alleviate Anxiety in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized
Mahva Talaei1, Kiarash Zare1,2, Yussef Hashemi2
1Student Research Committee, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
Background:
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.
Methods:
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.
Results:
The basil group showed significant reductions in HAM-A and BDI scores compared to the placebo group (p value < 0.05).
Conclusion:
Basil syrup could reduce anxiety in patients with MDD. However, further studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up period are necessary.
Trial Registration:
IRCT20230318057752N1.
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