Efficacy and Potential Mechanism of Chinese Herbal Formula Chaihu Shugan Powder on Animal Models of Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background

Chaihu Shugan powder (CSP) is used in the clinical treatment of depression. However, its clinical mechanisms remain elusive. While acknowledging the extensive animal research, there is a need for systematic meta-analysis for comprehensive understanding. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of CSP and its mechanisms in animal models of depression.

Methods

Animal studies on the antidepressant effects of CSP were reviewed in databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase database, CNKI, VIP, WangFang database, and CBM published before March 12, 2024. The R Studio software was used for statistical analyses.

Results

The present systematic review included 23 studies. The results revealed that CSP has a significant effect on behavior forced swimming test (FST) (SMD = −1.44, 95% CI: −1.87, −1.00); sucrose preference test (SPT) (SMD = 3.63, 95% CI: 1.87, 5.39), rearing numbers of open field test (OFT) (SMD = 1.46, 95% CI: 0.95, 1.96); crossing numbers of OFT (SMD = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.30, 3.01); and body weight (SMD = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.13, 3.18).

Conclusion

In summary, this study revealed that CSP could treat depression symptoms in animals, which is associated with its anti-inflammatory effects, regulation of the HPA axis, neurotrophic factors, and glucose metabolism.