Apium graveolens is a form of celery that grows naturally in the Mediterranean region. Evidence suggests that the plant contains a number of phytochemicals that may have beneficial effects on mood. For example in one study researchers administered essential oil from Apium graveolens to mice and exposed them to experimental stress. The essential oil was significantly able to reduce depressive-like behaviour in the mice. In addition the researchers observed an increase in antioxidant levels and a reduction in free radical damage in the brains of the mice. These effects were similar to those observed for the prescription antidepressant drug fluoxetine. It is interesting the fluoxetine increased brain antioxidant levels as evidence suggests that at least part of its antidepressant effect may come from the antioxidant effect it has in the brain. These results support the contention that certain plant compounds may be as effective as antidepressant medication in relieving the damaging effect of mood disorders. However, celery is a food and so is not associated with the same damaging side effects as prescription antidepressants.
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