Precious herb ‘Tian Ma’ fights depression

CM NEWS – An ancient, precious and expensive Chinese herb might possess anti-depressant effect, according to a new study by scientists at the National Taiwan University. Read more

Magnolia bark acts like antidepressant

CM NEWS – The two active ingredients of the bark of magnolias that have generated research interests to their anti-tumour and anti-inflammatory activities also exhibits antidepressant-like effects, a new study says.

Honokiol (厚樸酚) and magnolol (和厚樸酚) are the main constituents simultaneously identified in the barks of Magnolia officinalis, which have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of respiratory and intestinal disorders. Read more

Yoga can be possible treatment for depression

Boston University release — Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) and McLean Hospital have found that practicing yoga may elevate brain gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) levels, the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter.

The findings, which appear in the May issue of the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, suggest that the practice of yoga be explored as a possible treatment for depression and anxiety, disorders associated with low GABA levels. Read more

Chinese medicine herb extract keeps anxiety under control

CM NEWS – A study on rats shows that the extract of a plant commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine is an effective anti-anxiety agent.

Gou teng, 鉤藤, or Uncaria rhynchophylla, has been used to treat infantile convulsions, headaches, dizziness, hypertension and apoplexy. It has also been shown to be effective in lowering the excitement of the central nervous system. Read more