Exploring the Mood-Boosting Potential of Bananas: A Comprehensive Review

Food, like bananas, can be used as depression therapy. Bananas are known for their high tryptophan content. Tryptophan is the precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is closely related to the pathophysiology of anxiety and depression. This comprehensive review examines the available research on the link between banana consumption and mood. Screening of original articles or reviews was done on the Google Scholar database, Science Direct, MedLine (PubMed), Scielo, and Proquest with the keywords "banana," "Musa," "depression," and "anxiety" published no later than March 31, 2023. From 8.469 articles found, 18 studies were selected. From the experimental trial articles obtained (9 studies), most reported positive antidepressant and antianxiety effects, but not all were significant. The results of the three clinical trials were also inconsistent. Bananas have antianxiety and antidepressant properties, but the scientific literature on their efficacy is limited. Therefore, more evidence is needed to justify its use as a primary or adjunctive treatment for depression and anxiety. © © 2025 by Indonesian Journal of Pharmacy (IJP).