Terpenoids (terpenes) are a group of phytochemicals synthesised by plants and found abundantly in edible fruit and vegetables. Terpenoids have been researched for their biological effects and in this regard have been found to have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation and oxidation are both implicated in the development and progression of mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, and so terpenoids have been researched for their mood elevating effects. Ursolic acid is a triterpenoid found abundantly in fruits and vegetables and it is present in the human diet. Studies investigating the anxiolytic effects of ursolic acid in animals show that it can significantly reduce the anxious behaviour of mice. These results could explain why eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been shown to confer significant protection from the development of mood disorders. Terpenoids as a group show promise as useful treatments for both anxiety and depression, and the best way to obtain them is through the diet.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
