Genetic Algorithms and Evolutionary Computing

Abstract

Depression is a heterogeneous group of brain disorders characterized by a wide range of symptoms that result in psychomotor and cognitive impairments. Depression is accompanied with loss of pleasure or interest, feeling of guilt, decreased energy and low self worth. Depression is also a major cause of morbidity worldwide, estimated to affect 350 million people. It is highly prevalent, accounting for more disability than any other disorder and its prognosis and management are also poor due to the little understanding of the disorder. Many categories of synthetic and natural compounds have been reported to possess neuropsychiatric activity. Various adverse effects are associated with synthetic drugs which are used in the treatment of depression. Loss of libido, tolerance, physical dependence and insomnia is associated with selective serotonin (5 HT) reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants; several drug­drug interactions may occur. The aim of this review is to enlist those plants which have antidepressant activity.