Depression is a debilitating mental ailment that influences all aspects of daily life. This can affect any segment of the population across all socio-economic groups: adults, children and the elderly.
Millions of people around the world suffer from depression, and most of them do not even know that it can be treated and that there are effective remedies to deal with it. Herbal remedies are very powerful in that they help treat both the causes as well as the symptoms in a very effective manner.
Also, they are very safe to consume and do not lead to any side effects. When taken regularly these help improve the physical as well as the mental health of the person in a short span of time.
21 Herbal Remedies For Depression
St. John’s wort
It is one of the most effective traditional herbal remedies that has been used for many years to alleviate the effects of stress, panic, anxiety and sadness. It is also extremely helpful in treating insomnia. A lot of research has been conducted on it to reveal that it is a potent antidepressant.
Folic Acid
It has been shown that most of the people who are depressed generally tend to have decreased amounts of folic acid in their blood. Improper eating habits and intake of birth control medicines and aspirin are some of the reasons that can lead to this deficiency.
Folic acid is present abundantly in fresh fruits, beans, and leafy vegetables. Some food items that are rich in folic acid are fish, eggs, milk, meat, cheese, and other dairy products.
Chamomile
An effective natural remedy this helps slow down the neurotransmitters in the brain allowing people to relax and sleep much better. It is generally available in the form of tea or liquid extract and can be taken before going to bed to ensure good rest.
Ginkgo Biloba
A powerful antioxidant and antidepressant this helps increase blood flow to the brain as well as other parts of the body.
SAMe
An amino acid, S-Adenosyl Methionine aids the brain in maintaining healthy neurotransmitter processes. This enhances the levels of dopamine, serotonin and phosphatides in the system thereby helping treat depression.
5HTP
This is an amino acid that gets converted to serotonin when consumed. Low serotonin levels in the body have been known to lead to depression. Intake of this supplement helps boost the levels of the same in the system.
Fish Oil
Studies have shown that people with low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the bloodstream are prone to depression. Fish oil comes loaded with these acids and helps alleviate depression.
Siberian Ginseng
This is very helpful in helping the body adapt to external stresses. This herb has been shown to be suitable to treat a host of emotional problems and not just depression. This is highly beneficial for the immune system and helps improve the efficiency of neurotransmitters.
Peppermint
A refreshing herb that helps lift the mood and alleviate symptoms such as listlessness and anxiety that are normally associated with depression.
Skullcap
It is loaded with minerals that are very essential for the nervous system. It is an effective way to treat anxiety, agitation, fatigue and other symptoms of depression. It is also helpful to relieve withdrawal symptoms when going off tranquilizers and pharmaceutical antidepressants.
Ylang Ylang
This is one of the major components in aromatherapy. It helps soothe the nerves and brings about relaxation.
Lavender Oil
This is also known to enhance the mood of a person and helps induce a state of well-being.
Jasmine Tea
A popular beverage, it is known the world over for its unique flavour. It has a mild soothing action on the central nervous system and induces a feeling of calmness and tranquillity. When taken a few minutes before going to bed, it prepares the nerves for a good night’s sleep.
Valerian Herb
It is a mild sedative that has a soothing effect on the nervous system. It is usually recommended to treat nervous instability and sleep disorders. This can be used whenever one feels overwhelmed by stress. It is best administered in the evening as it induces sleepiness.
Garden Sage
This is an ancient remedy to treat emotionally distressed people.
Kava
This is an effective way to treat sleeplessness and anxiety. It is available in tablets and tinctures.
Passionflower
It has been proven to be an excellent remedy to treat anxiety, sleeplessness and depression. A moderating and soothing herb, it helps soothe feelings of anxiety and tension that are often associated with depression.
Basil
This is a commonly grown Asian herb that is loaded with medicinal properties. This helps greatly in stress reduction and also helps lift the mood.
Borage Leaf
This is another potent anti-depressant that helps treat depression in an effective manner. Rich in Potassium it helps stimulate the glandular system and brings down the feelings of melancholy, sadness and pensiveness.
Lemon Balm
Its soothing properties makes it an effective remedy in treating mental disorders and depression. It helps calm down the shattered nerves and induces feelings of calmness.
Licorice
Studies have shown that this herb is more effective than most prescription medicines. It is only recently that it is being known as an effective cure for depression. It can be taken in capsule form or as tea. Excessive usage of the herb over a long period of time can however result in side effects such a fatigue and headaches.
It is recommended that the herb be used only under the guidance of a doctor. It is always recommended that anyone considering the herbal approach to treat depression should check with a certified nutritional counsellor, therapist or doctor before resorting to any natural remedy for the ailment.
Herbal remedies for depression work best when you combine it with other options such as lifestyle changes and stress management techniques. Having a well balanced and healthy diet, exercising regularly, spending time with your family and friends, meditating, learning new things, all play a very important role in helping alleviate depression.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
