Potential of the Combination of Adaptogens and Physical Exercise in Depression: A Systematic Integrative Review

Abstract

This work aimed to describe the effects of adaptogen supplementation on depression-related variables in adults and to report on their level of physical activity. An integrative review was performed based on the PRISMA statement. 24 articles met the inclusion criteria and obtained a Price index of 50 %. A total of 5808 adult participated. Hypericum perforatum (62.5 %) and Rhodiola rosea (16.6 %) are the most studied adaptogens, showing significant improvements over placebo or baseline values, due to improvement in cellular allostasis. Only 8.3 % of studies reported on physical activity levels, while none were found that reported on the combination of exercise with adaptogen consumption. Clinical trials are suggested to evaluate consumption of herbal extracts together with physical exercise programs, mainly strength training, as a treatment for depression.