Botanical Formulation for Depression via Neurotransmitter Regulation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments for mild to moderate depression are often ineffective, particularly for females, and can have significant side effects, with a need for a more targeted and safer approach that addresses neurotransmitter imbalances and sleep disorders associated with depression.

Innovation Solution

A plant-based formulation comprising aqueous extracts of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Ocimum tenuiflorum, and Hippophae salicifolia, which acts on GABA receptors and melatonergic pathways to regulate neurotransmitter biochemistry, improve sleep patterns, and reduce anxiety, thereby offering a novel anti-depressant effect.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional anti-depressant drugs are used to treat depression, then neurotransmitter levels may be increased, but significant side effects and ineffectiveness occur particularly in mild to moderate cases and females

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanti-depressant efficacyVSAvoidside effects
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a plant-based formulation as an intermediary substance that modulates neurotransmitter systems indirectly through multiple botanical extracts (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Ocimum tenuiflorum, and Hippophae salicifolia) rather than direct pharmacological intervention. This intermediary approach achieves therapeutic effects while avoiding the harsh side effects of conventional anti-depressants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines multiple plant extracts in a composite formulation, where each extract contributes different bioactive compounds that work synergistically to regulate neurotransmitters. This composite approach provides broader therapeutic coverage and reduced side effects compared to single-substance conventional drugs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If long term treatment with anti-depressant drugs is administered, then desired results may be achieved, but treatment duration and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetherapeutic outcomeVSAvoidtreatment duration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The plant-based formulation uses moderate doses of multiple herbal extracts that collectively produce therapeutic effects without requiring long-term high-dose administration. The synergistic action of different plant compounds allows for effective treatment at lower overall doses and shorter durations compared to conventional monotherapy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Reliability

If current anti-depressant treatments are used, then some symptom relief may be achieved, but neurotransmitter imbalances and sleep disorders remain unaddressed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesymptom reliefVSAvoidcomprehensive treatment coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a multi-functional plant-based formulation where the same formulation addresses multiple aspects of depression simultaneously: neurotransmitter regulation (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine), sleep cycle regulation through melatonin pathways, and anxiety reduction. This universal approach treats the holistic condition rather than isolated symptoms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The formulation is segmented into multiple plant extracts, each targeting specific neurotransmitter systems or physiological functions. Nyctanthes arbor-tristis addresses one aspect, Ocimum tenuiflorum another, and Hippophae salicifolia a third, with their combined effects providing comprehensive coverage of depression-related imbalances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10111921B2Regulation of brain biogenic amines associated with depression by a formulation from botanical source
Publication Date: 2018.10.30 GILL HARINDER SINGH
  • US10111921B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided herein are anti depressant and anxiolytic herbal formulations including: 225-450 mg of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, 250-550 mg Ocimum tenuiflorum, 200-450 mg Hippophae salicifolia, and optionally additives selected from minerals, vitamins, salt, filler and binder. Also provided are methods of making such formulations and methods of using such formulations for treating or improving brain function.