Anxiolytic potential of medicinal plants in the treatment of anxiety disorders: an alternative to psychotropic drugs

Introduction: The rising prevalence of anxiety disorders and the limitations of conventional psychotropic drugs (e.g., side effects, dependency risks) have driven research into the anxiolytic potential of medicinal plants. Current evidence suggests that bioactive compounds in certain plant species modulate neurotransmitter systems (e.g., GABA, serotonin) while offering fewer adverse effects, positioning them as viable alternatives for anxiety management. Objectives: Describe the anxiolytic properties of medicinal plants through their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety profiles, with the aim of proposing evidence-based herbal alternatives to synthetic anxiolytics. Methods: A narrative review of recent literature (2019–2025) was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, SciElo and ScienceDirect, focusing on preclinical and clinical studies of medicinal plants with reported anxiolytic effects (e.g., Passiflora incarnata, Matricaria chamomilla, Valeriana officinalis). Data on pharmacological mechanisms (e.g., GABAergic modulation, 5-HT1A agonism), efficacy (e.g., behavioral tests in rodents, human clinical trials), and safety were analyzed. Development: The analyzed studies demonstrate that various medicinal plants, such as passionflower, chamomile, and valerian, possess significant anxiolytic effects. These effects are primarily associated with the modulation of neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin, with a more favorable safety profile compared to traditional psychotropic drugs. However, clinical evidence remains limited, and further research is needed to confirm their long-term efficacy and safety. Conclusions: Medicinal plants show promising anxiolytic potential with favorable safety profiles, but further rigorous clinical trials are needed to standardize dosages, evaluate chronic use, and assess interactions with conventional therapies.