Could matcha tea have anti-depressant properties?

(Jessica Norris/ Medical News Today) — Depression is a common mood disorder, affecting 5% of adults worldwide. Whilst effective treatments do exist, some patients experience unpleasant side effects, and an estimated 30.9% of patients have either no or a poor response to medication.

Researchers are working to understand complementary and alternative therapies that may aid in treating depression. A​ recent study published in the journal Nutrients looked at the potential antidepressant effect of matcha tea powder and the underlying mechanisms involved.

The results of the study suggest matcha tea powder has the potential to be a useful avenue for further research in the quest for new treatments for depression. Tzall noted that “results like this are always encouraging regarding finding natural or alternative means of alleviating depression or other mental health issues.”

“Just as is the case with medication, this will not be a panacea to depression or anxiety,” he nonetheless cautioned. “It might serve as an adjunctive form of treatment.” (…)