Research Area: Depression
13 ingredients studied for effects on Depression — sorted by research relevance.
Saffron (Crocus sativus)
Saffron is mainly studied for mood, stress, and PMS. Human trials are interesting, but still too small and narrow to justify broad health claims or premium pricing narratives.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is essential for amino acid metabolism, nerve function, and blood cell formation. Useful for deficiency—chronic high doses can cause nerve damage.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Edible mushroom with active compounds (hericenones, erinacines) that stimulate NGF and BDNF synthesis. Early RCTs in MCI and anxiety show positive signals — evidence remains preliminary.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms with strain-specific effects. Strong evidence for antibiotic diarrhea and IBS; product quality varies dramatically.
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)
5-HTP is a serotonin precursor crossing the blood-brain barrier. Used for sleep and mood. Critical: avoid with SSRIs or MAO inhibitors due to serotonin syndrome risk.
Caffeine
The world's most widely consumed psychoactive substance. Hundreds of RCTs confirm effects on alertness, reaction time, endurance, and short-term cognition.
Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions. Low intake is common. The form significantly affects bioavailability and tolerability.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 is well supported for bone, muscle, and immune function when deficiency is confirmed. Without deficiency, additional benefit is significantly weaker — not a universal upgrade.
Melatonin
Melatonin regulates the sleep–wake cycle and has antioxidant properties. Evidence is strongest for jet lag and sleep onset; prescription-only above 0.5 mg/day in Germany.
Rhodiola Rosea (Rosenwurz)
Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogen with RCT evidence for mental fatigue and stress relief. Data are promising but show some heterogeneity across studies.
Myo-Inositol
Myo-inositol has solid RCT evidence for PCOS and insulin resistance. Promising but limited data for anxiety and panic disorder.
L-Tyrosin
L-Tyrosin is an amino acid precursor of dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline. Studies show cognitive benefits under acute stress and sleep deprivation.
D,L-Phenylalanine
DLPA combines the neurotransmitter precursor L-phenylalanine with the D-form, which may prolong endogenous endorphins. Moderate evidence, older study base.