Sesamol–a natural substance found in sesame oil–shows promise for relief of depression. In preliminary research published in the journal Psychopharmacology, scientists found that sesamol helped shield mice from depressive-like behavior caused by stress.
According to the study’s authors, people with depression tend to have elevated levels of certain markers of inflammation and oxidative stress (a destructive process that results from overproduction of free radicals). Their study’s findings suggest that sesamol may help reverse stress-induced inflammation and oxidative stress and–in turn–thwart the onset of depression.
It’s too soon to recommend sesamol in prevention or treatment of depression of any kind. If you’re looking to lift your mood while alleviating stress, consider natural mood-enhancers like meditation, yoga, and massage therapy.