Uso de fitoterápicos para tratamento do Transtorno de Ansiedade Generalizada

Abstract

This final course paper, based on a narrative literature review, aimed to analyze the efficacy and safety of herbal remedies as a therapeutic alternative for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Based on the premise that conventional pharmacological treatments, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), often present limitations such as adverse effects, low adherence rates, and resistance, the research focused on identifying and describing the potential of medicinal plants. A detailed analysis of the literature demonstrated that several plants, including Valeriana officinalis, Ashwagandha, Saffron, Passiflora incarnata, Kava, and Chamomile, have promising mechanisms of action, primarily by modulating the GABAergic and serotonergic neurotransmitter systems. The results indicate that phytotherapy can not only complement but also serve as a viable alternative to traditional pharmacotherapy, with a lower incidence of side effects. However, the study also highlights existing gaps in research, such as the lack of extract standardization, variability in the chemical composition of the plants, and the need for clinical trials with larger samples. The conclusion reinforces that, despite the methodological challenges, the use of herbal remedies represents a promising approach to GAD treatment, contributing to a more integrative and humanized form of medicine.