Aniba riparia is a plant that produces a fruit, and this fruit contains a number of phytochemicals that may possess mood elevating properties. These are generally referred to as riparins, and include methyl ether of N-benzoyl tyramine (riparin I), N-(2-hydroxybenzoil) tiramine (riparin II), and N-(2,6-dihydroxybenzoil) tyramine (riparin III). In one study the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of Riparin III were observed in mice. In another study, Riparin II was shown to possess anxiolytic effects in mice. In a further study, the antidepressant effects of riaprin II were investigated in mice. The results of this study showed that riparin II also possessed antidepressant activity in mice, and that the noradrenergic, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems may be involved in this activity. Studies also show that riparins may possess antioxidant activity, and this may explain how they are able to alter brain chemistry. Free radicals and oxidative stress are a significant contributory factor in the development of mood disorders.
Aniba is a group of shrubs and trees that are native to the South America. Aniba riparia belongs to the Lauraceae family of plants, and is commonly called Louro in Brazil. Phytochemicals within the unripe fruit of Aniba riparia (riparins) may have pharmacological activity in animals and humans. Image from de Melo et al, 2006.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
