Phytotherapy as an adjunctive tool in the treatment of anorexia nervosa:a review of potential neuroregulatory and appetitogenic plants
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12923/2353-8627/2025-0014Keywords:
anorexia, cannabinoids, phytotherapy, Angelica archangelica, Artemisia absinthiumAbstract
Introduction: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a serious eating disorder. Globally, eating disorders affect 25% of the population over the course of a lifetime and occur significantly more often in women than in men. AN is associated with high mortality, complications. The comorbidity of AN and depression highlights the need for a holistic therapeutic approach.
Material and methods: This literature review was conducted on the basis of scientific articles published from 2013 to 2025. As sources were used:PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar using the following keywords: norexia nervosa, phytotherap, cannabinoids, Angelica archangelica, Artemisia absinthium.
Results: Phytotherapy may support recovery and improve quality of life in patients with AN, which remains a therapeutic challenge despite the growing treatment options. This article explores phytotherapy as an adjunct to conventional therapy, offering clinicians guidance on natural supplements. Cannabinoids can stimulate appetite and mood, Angelica archangelica may help manage anemia and cognitive impairment, while Artemisia absinthium alleviates anorexia-related symptoms caused by zinc deficiency. These approaches highlight phytotherapy’s potential role in enhancing treatment effectiveness and supporting patient outcomes.
Conclusions: Phytotherapy including cannabinoids, A. archangelica, and A. absinthium offers promising support in the treatment of AN. Cannabinoids may improve appetite and mood, A. archangelica supports the treatment of anemia and cognitive impairment, while A. absinthium helps alleviate symptoms of anorexia resulting from zinc deficiency.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Oliwia Burdan, Natalia Picheta, Julia Piekarz, Filip Gajewski, Grzegorz Kurec, Katarzyna Szklener (Autor)
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