Improvement of Depression in Terminal Cancer Patients

This study investigates the potential of the water extract of Gastrodia elata Blume (WGE) to alleviate depressive symptoms in terminal cancer patients. In Taiwan, cancer accounts for 25-30% of annual deaths, with terminal patients often experiencing physical pain and psychological distress, including depression. Addressing both physical and psychological challenges is vital in palliative care.

Gastrodia elata Blume is a traditional dietary medicine known for its antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neurotransmitter-regulating, and neuroprotective properties. This trial will recruit 60 hospice patients, randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a WGE experimental group.

Assessments will include:

1. General examinations (e.g., height, weight, blood pressure). 2. Non-invasive autonomic nervous system analyses. 3. Patient-reported measures: Quality of Life Scale (EORTC QLQ-C30), Pain Score, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

The study hypothesizes that WGE can:

1. Alleviate depressive symptoms. 2. Enhance autonomic nervous system function. 3. Improve the quality of life for terminal cancer patients.

This research aims to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of WGE, improving psychological and physiological outcomes for hospice patients.