Effects of Saffron and Chamomile in Mild to Moderate Depression

Diabetes characterized by decreased production, or resistance to the action of insulin or both. The reduced production or action alters many important body functions namely glucose absorption and utilization in the body. The disturbed glucose metabolism profoundly effects transportation of large neutral amino acids especially tryptophan in brain leading decreased synthesis of serotonin and hence ensuing depression, memory loss and various other psycho-neurological problems. Different antipsychotic treatments like serotonin reuptake inhibitors, monoamine inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants are available in the market to treat depression but are not devoid of adverse effects. Therefore, there is a tendency in underdeveloped countries to use alternative remedies to combat the psycho-neurological issues. Nature has bestowed the bounty of indigenous herbs like Saffron (Crocus sativusL) and chamomile (Matricaria chamomileL), that possess neuro-protective effects and are regularly consumed in day to day delicacies with no documented adverse-effects nor adverse events Though these herbs have been studied widely for their multiple therapeutic benefits, however, till date both of these herbs in combination have not been studied as an adjuvant therapy for mild to moderate depression. Therefore the present study is designed to determine the combined beneficial effects of these herbs as an adjuvant therapy for treatment of depression.