Depression and Gastrointestinal Health Abnormalities: Treatment Approaches from the Perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Depression is often associated with gastrointestinal issues, forming a self-sustaining cycle known as the emotion-gastrointestinal axis. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides multi-component and multi-target therapies, though its mechanisms are not fully understood. This article reviews key studies on how TCM, including herbal formulas, single herbs, active ingredients, and acupuncture, influences the brain-gut axis in treating depression and gastrointestinal problems. This article reviews recent research on the pharmacological mechanisms of Chinese medicine, providing a basis for its targeted molecular therapy and future development. Additionally, it provides insights into enhanced treatment strategies for clinical patients and investigates the potential role of TCM in addressing depression and gastrointestinal-related health disorders.