In an aggressive review article, it was concluded:
1. Ferulic acid was found to significantly improve the depressive-like behaviors of animal models, suggesting it is a potential natural product in the treatment of human depression.
2. It helps the depression brain area grow:
* Enhancing monoamine oxidase A (MOA) activity.
* Brain microglia activation
* Inflammation effects
* Impacts anti-oxidative stress
* It regenerates nerves, especially in the depression area–the hippocampal area.
* An increase in brain nerve growth factor (BDNF).
We need extensive human testing.
Source: Dong X, Zhao D. Ferulic acid as a therapeutic agent in depression: Evidence from preclinical studies. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2023 Sep;29(9):2397-2412.