Basil (Ocimum basilicum) to Alleviate Anxiety in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#adult #female #humans #male #middle-aged

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) to Alleviate Anxiety in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Talaei et al., 2025 | Brain Behav | Rct

Citation

Talaei Mahva, Zare Kiarash, ... Mosavat Sayed Hamdollah. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) to Alleviate Anxiety in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Brain Behav. 2025-Nov;15(11):e70994. doi:10.1002/brb3.70994

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a widespread global mood disorder, often accompanied by anxiety as a common symptom. This study assessed the effectiveness of basil (Ocimum basilicum) syrup in alleviating anxiety in patients with depression. METHODS: A randomized single-blinded clinical trial was conducted at Dastgheib Psychiatric Clinic, Fasa University of Medical Sciences. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to receive either basil syrup or a placebo for 4 weeks. Anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), respectively, before and after the intervention. RESULTS: The basil group showed significant reductions in HAM-A and BDI scores compared to the placebo group (p value < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Basil syrup could reduce anxiety in patients with MDD. However, further studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up period are necessary. TRIAL REGISTRATION: IRCT20230318057752N1.

Key Findings

The basil group showed significant reductions in HAM-A and BDI scores compared to the placebo group (p value < 0.05).

Outcomes Measured

  • anxiety
  • depression

Population

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

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Anxiety
  • Major Depressive Disorder
  • Ocimum basilicum
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Single-Blind Method
  • Treatment Outcome

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Rct
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Vertical: holy-basil

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-10