Abstract: Provided is a method for treating depression with a Nelumbinis Semen extract. The Nelumbinis Semen extract is prepared by extracting Nelumbinis Semen with an alcohol or an alcohol solution. The Nelumbinis Semen extract has been demonstrated using animal behavioral, bio-chemical and molecular biological methods to have strong antidepressive activity, as well as inhibiting immune suppression caused by depression, leading to normal immune responses, and reducing side effects of conventional antidepressants, thereby ensuring safety. Thus, the Nelumbinis Semen extract is useful for preparing a composition or health food for treating depression.

Abstract: Disclosed are an extract of Nelumbinis Semen (Nelumbo nucifera) having an antidepressive effect, and a pharmaceutical composition and a health food for treating depression, comprising the extract, The Nelumbinis Semen extract is prepared by extracting Nelumbinis Semen with hot water. Animal behavioral and biochemical studies revealed that the Nelumbinis Semen extract has very strong antidepressive activity and is safe to the body while reducing the side effects of conventional antidepressants. Thus, the Nelumbinis Semen extract is applicable to a composition and a health food for treating depression.