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Herbs For Depression

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Depression is an illness many people suffer from at some time in their lives. Sometimes the depression is mild, and lasts for just a few weeks. Other times however, even mild depression can last months or years, and there are more severe forms of depression which prevent the sufferer from going about their regular life.

Generally, some of the symptoms of depression include sadness; listlessness; disinterest in family, friends or hobbies; sleep problems; self esteem problems; feelings of guilt, hopelessness or fear.

Often though, depression is caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals and hormones in the body. And there are many herbs and natural supplements which can be used effectively for regulating these imbalances. Some have been studied by reputable scientists, while others have been used successfully for many years by professional herbalists. Let’s look at several.

St. John’s Wort is an herb that’s gotten the most attention for use in depression. In fact, some claim studies have been done which show this herb often works better on depression than high quality prescription antidepression drugs.

Please remember: Don’t add herbal remedies to your routine if you are also taking some form of prescription drug, particularly for the same condition. Mixing St. John’s Wort and prescription antidepressants for instance, can be a dangerous combination.

Licorice is a very strong natural antidepressant. It’s known as a hormone herb, and it’s an excellent source of the female hormone estrogen – which both men and women need. This herb also stimulates and regulates the adrenal glands and is beneficial to the heart and circulatory system.

Ginseng is an excellent hormone balancing herb which particularly helps to build resistance against stress. It also helps give you energy and it’s difficult for anyone to be overly depressed when they’re full of energy.

Gota Kola stimulates circulation to the brain, and helps balance the hormones and nervous system. When it’s combined with Ginseng and Cayenne, it’s considered to be an excellent “pick me up” combination.

Fish Oils are said to have mild, mood balancing effects. These also contribute to vitamin and mineral deficiencies in your body, which can be a cause of depression as well.

In addition to using herbal remedies and supplements for treating depression, there are several natural ways to treat it as well. Meditation, Yoga, and Exercise are the three that give best results. Exercise particularly will increase your endorphins, and give you a bit of a “high”. Meditation will help calm your nerves and relieve stress, while Yoga accomplishes both exercise and a form of meditation at the same time.

Statements made in this article may not be approved by the FDA, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.

Sources:
http://holisticonline.com/Remedies/Depression/dep_herbs_2.htm
http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/depression/treatment/alternative/herbs.asp
http://www.amoryn.com/zzherbsfordepression.html
http://www.raysahelian.com/depression.html
http://www.iloveindia.com/indian-herbs/herbs-for-depression.html
“The How To Herb Book” Mayfield Publications