Evidence supporting the use of: Polyphenols (various)
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Polyphenols, a diverse group of naturally occurring compounds found in plants (such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and stilbenes), have been investigated for their potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. Scientific interest in polyphenols and anxiety primarily stems from their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are hypothesized to modulate neurobiological pathways implicated in anxiety disorders. Some preclinical (animal) studies suggest that polyphenol-rich extracts (like those from green tea, cocoa, and certain fruits) may reduce anxiety-like behaviors, potentially by influencing neurotransmitter systems (e.g., GABAergic and serotonergic signaling) and reducing neuroinflammation or oxidative stress. However, evidence from human studies is limited and inconsistent. A few small-scale clinical trials have explored the anxiolytic effects of specific polyphenol-rich foods or supplements (such as green tea catechins or resveratrol), with some reporting modest reductions in self-reported anxiety, while others found no significant benefit. Systematic reviews generally conclude that while there is biological plausibility and some preliminary support for polyphenols’ role in modulating mood and anxiety, high-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials are lacking. Overall, while there is some scientific rationale for the use of polyphenols in supporting anxiety disorders, the evidence is weak and insufficient to recommend their use as a primary treatment for anxiety. More robust clinical research is needed to clarify their efficacy and mechanisms in humans.

More about polyphenols (various)
More about Anxiety Disorders

Products containing polyphenols (various)

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