Researchers Review Non-Prescription Options for Depression Symptom Treatment

Potential Benefits from Omega-3s, St. John’s Wort, Saffron, Probiotics, and Vitamin D

According to the World Health Organization’s 2022 report, an estimated 970 million people were affected by mental health conditions in 2019, of which 28.9% were depressive disorders. Treatment typically includes therapy and use of an antidepressant, according to the American Psychological Association. A 2025 review by researchers, of 404 studies with 209 trials, looked at various over-the-counter products to combat depression. Five products showed evidence for depression treatment in more than 10 trials; more research is needed for products with less than 10 trials.

1. Products evaluated in more than 10 trials with substantive evidence for depression treatment include omega-3s, St. John’s Wort, saffron, probiotics, and vitamin D.

2. Products evaluated in two to nine trials that appeared promising for depression treatment included folic acid, lavender, zinc, tryptophan, rhodiola, and lemon balm.

3. In addition, mixed results were found for melatonin, magnesium, curcumin, cinnamon, echium, vitamin C, and vitamin D with calcium.

4. Products evaluated in one trial with positive effects compared to placebo were rosemary, green tea, lotus seeds, ulva, basil, chromium, Nigella sativa L. (black cumin), and flavonoid-rich orange juice.

5. No trials were conducted with homeopathic products.

Sources:

• Review: Over-the-Counter Herbal Products for Depressive Symptoms in Adults (2025)

• World Health Organization – World Mental Health Report (2022)

• American Psychological Association – Depression Guideline

• Black Cumin – A Comprehensive Review (2021)