Gastrodin is a bioactive compound derived from Gastrodia elata, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. There is emerging but still preliminary scientific evidence supporting its use for anxiety disorders. Preclinical studies, primarily in animal models, have shown that gastrodin can exert anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. These effects are thought to be mediated through modulation of neurotransmitter systems, including GABAergic and serotonergic pathways, reduction of oxidative stress, and anti-inflammatory actions in the brain.

For example, several rodent studies have demonstrated that gastrodin administration reduces anxiety-like behaviors in standard behavioral tests. These studies suggest mechanisms such as enhancing GABAergic transmission and protecting against neuronal damage. However, the majority of this research remains at the preclinical stage, with very limited data from human clinical trials. A handful of small clinical studies in China have included anxiety symptoms as secondary outcomes in populations with other neurological conditions (such as migraine or epilepsy), and there are anecdotal clinical reports from traditional use, but robust, placebo-controlled trials specifically targeting anxiety disorders are lacking.

In summary, while there is scientific rationale and some supporting laboratory evidence for gastrodin's benefit in anxiety, the current human evidence base is insufficient to firmly recommend its use for this indication. More rigorous clinical trials are needed to establish efficacy and safety.