Dealing With Anxiety
A number of studies have found that mulungu is promising in the treatment of anxiety. One particular study, published in the Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, claims that mulungu bark extracts helped to lower anxiety levels in mice through depression of the central nervous system.
A different study, found in the Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, claimed that rats treated with mulungu extract experienced a decrease in anxiety levels, too. These findings go to show that this extract may actually be useful in managing anxiety-related conditions such as panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
Easing Pain
Mulungu may be a very useful treatment for pain management, according to a 2003 study from Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin. In lab tests carried out on mice, the authors found that mulungu extract can actually act as an antinociceptive - a substance that reduces the body's sensitivity to pain.
Treating Epilepsy
According to an animal-based study published in Epilepsy & Behavior in 2012, mulungu may even have anticonvulsant effects, which would be useful in the treatment of epilepsy. The researchers discovered that erysothrine, which is a mulungu plant extract, actually helped inhibit seizures along with reducing anxiety that often accompanies epilepsy.
Staying Safe
Since mulungu is a relatively unresearched remedy, not much is known when it comes to the safety of long-term use. In fact, there is actually some concern that mulungu may be harmful to people with low blood pressure, and that it may even cause persons to become drowsy.
It's essential to bear in mind that many supplements are largely unregulated. In some cases, doses that differ from the specified amount on the box. In other cases, supplements may be contaminated with other impurities. What's more, the safety of supplements for nursing mothers, pregnant women, children, and those on medication has yet to be established.
Alternatives
Since mulungu research is still so limited, it would be far wiser to seek alternative treatments at this point. Herbs that can reduce anxiety include passion flower, kava, and valerian. To treat pain naturally, you can try using curcumin or even pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF). For epilepsy, try using vitamin B6, vitamin E, magnesium, and mugwort.