HERBAL RESOURCES IN THE MEDICATION OF DEPRESSION DURING PANDEMIC COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Depression has long been recognized as a major public health problem. Fear and anxiety associated with the high morbidity and mortality of COVID-19 have increased risk factors for mental health decline. A high prevalence of psychiatric disorders has been documented in individuals who have been directly or indirectly exposed to life-threatening situations. Current evidence suggests decompensation of pre-existing psychiatric disorders, increasing levels of depression, anxiety, and worry, and increased suicide as sequelae of COVID-19. Patients with COVID-19 are particularly vulnerable because psychopathologies can be exacerbated by coronaviruses, either through direct viral infection of the central nervous system or indirectly through an immune response. It, therefore, seems expedient to search for alternative methods of prevention, treatment, or supportive treatment of depression, especially since conventional pharmacotherapies and psychotherapies are only partially effective. Beneficial antidepressant effects have been observed after the application of spice plants as well as some mushrooms and herbs containing complex active components or phytochemicals. Their use in adjunctive therapy against depression, especially in the period of difficulties related to the functioning of COVID-19 oriented health care, seems to be an interesting alternative. The aim of the present study was to analyze the usefulness of Sceletium tortuo??Hericium erinaceus (Bull.Fr.) Pers. and plant materials with psychedelic activity such as psilocybin and ayahuasca in reducing symptoms associated with depression.