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Saffron Extract (Affron) Reduces Stress via HPA Axis & Neuroplasticity in Rats (2023 Study)

In a world increasingly burdened by the psychological strains of modern living, the quest for effective and safe treatments for stress-related symptoms has never been more urgent. A recent study evaluated the stress-mitigating properties of Affron® – a Saffron extract – in animal models, revealing its potent effects on the body’s stress response systems, including …

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Natural Plant Polysaccharides for Depression: Antidepressant Mechanisms & Effects (2024 Review)

Depression is a complex mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, presenting a significant challenge for current medical treatments due to various side effects and drug resistances associated with conventional antidepressants. In response, researchers have turned their attention to natural plant polysaccharides, which have shown promising antidepressant effects through diverse mechanisms. This exploration …

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Kappa Opioid Receptors (KORs) vs. Depression & Stress-Related Brain Region Activation (2023 Study)

Depression, a complex and multifaceted disorder, challenges both individuals and society with its pervasive effects and the limitations of current treatments. Recent research has spotlighted the opioid system, specifically the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), as a potential target for innovative treatments. This focus is grounded in findings that KOR activation influences stress hormone levels and …

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Berberine for Depression: Mechanisms & Antidepressant Effects (2024 Review)

Depression, a pervasive global health issue, significantly impairs quality of life and burdens the healthcare system. Despite the availability of numerous antidepressants, their effectiveness is often limited, pushing researchers to explore alternative treatments. Berberine, a natural compound with a diverse pharmacological profile, has shown promising antidepressant effects, offering a potential complementary or alternative approach to …

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Calorie Restriction (CR) Effects on Brain Gene Expression & Behavior in Rats (2023 Study)

Calorie restriction (CR) is increasingly recognized for its potential benefits beyond just weight loss, including reducing anxiety, slowing aging, and mitigating the risk of obesity. Recent research focused on how both short-term and long-term CR affect behavior and gene expression in various brain regions, providing insights into the molecular underpinnings of these effects. Highlights: Behavioral …

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Lateral Habenula & Depression: The Anti-Reward Center (Mechanisms & Antidepressant Treatments)

Depression is a complex and multifaceted disorder affecting millions worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests the lateral habenula, a small brain region, plays a crucial role in depression’s development and persistence. By influencing neurotransmitter systems and interacting with stress pathways, the lateral habenula’s dysfunction may lead to the classic symptoms of depression. Highlights: The lateral habenula is …

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Magnesium For Depression: An Underexplored Treatment

Magnesium is regarded as an essential mineral for humans and functions as a cofactor in upwards of 300 biochemical processes throughout the body.  For example, magnesium is implicated in: ATP production, blood pressure regulation, bone development, glucose modulation, heart rhythm normalization, muscle and nerve function, plus protein synthesis.  Knowing that magnesium is essential for optimal …

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