Review of Case Study Results: Assessing the Effectiveness of Curcumin, St. John’s Wort, Valerian Root, Milk Thistle, and Ashwagandha in the Intervention for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Background: The recurring actions and intrusive thoughts that characterise obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), a long-term mental illness, are known as compulsions. The cornerstones of conventional treatment are psychological counselling and prescribed medication; nonetheless, interest in complementary therapies has grown. This review looks at how well Ashwagandha, curcumin, milk thistle, valerian root, and St. John’s wort may help with OCD symptoms. Methods: To assess these herbal supplements’ potential for therapeutic benefit, case reports and clinical trials were examined. Results: Curcumin, which contains anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, has shown promise in reducing the severity of OCD symptoms. Traditionally used to treat depression, St. John’s wort has shown some potential in lowering anxiety and compulsive behaviour. The herb milk thistle, which is mainly used for liver protection, did not affect OCD symptoms. Anxiolytic valerian root barely offered relief from symptoms associated with anxiety; it has only little effect on obsessions and compulsions. The adaptive Ashwagandha has demonstrated a great deal of promise in lowering stress and enhancing general well-being, which may help with symptom alleviation. Although the initial results are favourable, larger scale randomised controlled trials are necessary to validate reliability and efficacy. Conclusion: This study illustrates how herbal supplements may be used in addition to conventional medications as adjunctive treatments for OCD.