Blooming Serenity: A Comprehensive review of Flowers as Natural Anxiolytics"

Abstract

The rising frequency of anxiety disorders, combined with the limitations of current treatment choices, has sparked interest in alternative and complementary therapies. Plants with a history of traditional medicinal usage are especially appealing because of their natural origin and the possibility of fewer adverse effects. This review looks at the antianxiety properties of six medicinal plants: chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), calendula (Calendula officinalis), arnica (Arnica montana), echinacea (Echinacea purpurea), sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale), and sunflower (Helianthus annus). Based on a thorough examination of existing scientific literature, the bioactive chemicals, mechanisms of action, and experimental evidence supporting their anxiolytic effects are critically analysed. Chamomile, which is high in apigenin and other flavonoids, has demonstrated strong anxiolytic efficacy in both preclinical and clinical investigations, principally through regulation of GABAergic pathways. Calendula, which has long been used for its calming qualities, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may indirectly help to reduce anxiety. Arnica, while well-known for its topical anti-inflammatory properties, includes sesquiterpene lactones, which show potential in modulating stress-related pathways. Echinacea, which is widely known for its immunomodulatory properties, has lately shown anxiolytic activity, mostly through interaction with endocannabinoid receptors. Sneezeweed, a lesser-studied plant, has helenalin, a chemical that has neuroprotective and putative mood-modulating properties. Finally, sunflower seeds and extracts, which are high in magnesium and polyphenols, may help with anxiety by influencing neurochemical balance and the stress response pathways. The study highlights major breakthroughs in phytochemical analyses and mechanistic investigations, but it also indicates important information gaps. Most studies focus on in vitro or animal models, with few clinical trials to prove efficacy and safety in humans. Furthermore, differences in plant extraction processes, doses, and study designs make it difficult to compare outcomes between studies. Despite these limitations, the reviewed information suggests that these plants have potential as sources for the creation of new anxiolytic drugs. Future research should concentrate on well-designed clinical trials, standardized extraction processes, and the understanding of molecular mechanisms to confirm these plants' medicinal potential. By combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific methodologies, this review emphasizes the need of researching plant-based medicines for anxiety control.