Research Gist
Low mood after a stroke is common and can slow recovery and affect quality of life. This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial examined whether Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), traditionally used for mind-related and psychosomatic conditions, could help. The study was conducted between March 2021 and February 2022 at the National Institute of Unani Medicine hospital in Bengaluru, and was registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India. Forty participants were divided equally into two groups: one received 3 g of Jatamansi powder daily, the other a placebo, for six weeks. Mood was measured using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and quality of life using the SF-36 survey. After six weeks, the Jatamansi group showed a significant reduction in mood-scale scores and a significant improvement in quality of life, while the placebo group showed no significant change.
Key Learnings
- Mood-scale scores improved significantly in the Jatamansi group over six weeks.
- Quality of life, measured by the SF-36 survey, also improved.
- The placebo group showed no significant change on either measure.
- The trial was double-blind and registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India.
- This was a small trial of 40 stroke survivors using 3 g of whole powder daily — results may not apply to other groups or lower doses.