Curcumin for depression: a meta-analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#anti-inflammatory-agents #antioxidants #curcuma #curcumin #depression

Curcumin for depression: a meta-analysis

Fusar-Poli et al., 2020 | Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr | Meta Analysis

Citation

Fusar-Poli Laura, Vozza Lucia, ... Aguglia Eugenio. Curcumin for depression: a meta-analysis. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2020;60(15):2643-2653. doi:10.1080/10408398.2019.1653260

Abstract

Curcumin is the principal curcuminoid found in turmeric (Curcuma longa), a spice frequently used in Asian countries. Given its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it has been hypothesized that curcumin might be effective in treating symptoms of a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression. We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines. In August 2019, we screened 930 articles, of which 9 were eligible for the meta-analysis. In 7 articles, participants were affected by major depressive disorder (MDD), while in other two they suffered from depression secondary to a medical condition. We found an overall significant effect of curcumin on depressive (10 studies, 531 participants, Hedge's g = -0.75, 95% CI -1.11 to -0.39, p < 0.001) and anxiety symptoms (5 studies, 284 participants, Hedge's g = -2.62, 95% CI -4.06 to -1.17, p < 0.001), with large effect size. Curcumin was generally well-tolerated by patients. Our findings suggest that curcumin, if added to standard care, might improve depressive and anxiety symptoms in people with depression. However, given the small sample size, our results should be cautiously interpreted. Further trials should be implemented, particularly in Western countries, where curcumin does not represent a usual component of dietary regimens.

Key Findings

Further trials should be implemented, particularly in Western countries, where curcumin does not represent a usual component of dietary regimens.

Outcomes Measured

  • anxiety
  • depression
  • inflammatory markers

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 531
Age Range See abstract
Condition anxiety

MeSH Terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antioxidants
  • Curcuma
  • Curcumin
  • Depression
  • Major Depressive Disorder
  • Humans

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis
  • Vertical: curcumin-mood

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09