Natural Remedies For Depression
Depression is a difficult condition to manage There are a number of efficient methods. Medications can reduce symptoms, and psychotherapy -- or "talk therapy" is an important component of treatment.
Certain herbal supplements could help. For instance, St. John's wort is an herb that's FDA-approved for treating depression, can help improve symptoms in certain people. This herb can interact with birth control pills, heart drugs, and medications that stop rejection of organs after the transplant.
Saffron
Saffron is best known for its role in adding the color of food however, it also acts as an excellent mood booster. It's made up of a variety of compounds, like crocetin and crocins, that contain antioxidants and radical scavenging properties, which protect against harmful free radicals that could contribute to chronic diseases like depression.
The research conducted on saffron and depression is mixed however, some of it is promising. In one study, individuals who were suffering from depression were randomly assigned to either undergo a six-week saffron treatment or placebo. They were then assessed using the depression questionnaire as well as an anxiety test. The saffron-users were less depressed and anxious than those who did not.
Other studies have not yielded the similar results. In fact, the review article above reveals that a lot of the studies that have found benefits used small samples and brief follow-ups, and most of them were conducted in Iran, where the researchers have financial connections to saffron manufacturers. This raises suspicions about the Iranian researchers who claim that saffron is beneficial for depression.
It's possible that saffron has antidepressant properties because it acts on the brain to boost serotonin levels. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, can improve mood and improve relaxation. It is believed that saffron hinders synaptic serotonin uptake and keeps the chemical in the body.
In a separate study, women who were experiencing symptoms of premenstrual bleeding were given either saffron extract or an inactive placebo for a period of two months. They were then screened using a Premenstrual Daily Symptoms (PDS) questionnaire as well as the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. The saffron supplement significantly reduced PMS symptoms, and women who took it were more in coping with stress.
Saffron is a well-known treatment for depression. However, we need larger, longer-term trials before it can become a recommended treatment. It's also crucial to talk with your physician prior to taking any dietary supplement for depression, especially ones that aren't approved by the FDA. They can interact with other medications or cause serious adverse effects.
5-HTP
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is an amino acid that the body converts into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that sends signals between nerve cells. Serotonin levels that are low have been linked to depression, anxiety and sleep disorders, fibromyalgia and a myriad of other health issues. Studies have shown that 5-HTP supplements can raise serotonin levels and improve mood in certain people. More research is needed to determine the efficacy of this supplement in treating depression.
Tryptophan is a component of dairy products, bananas cheese, yogurt and bananas. It is also available as an over-the-counter food supplement. The body converts tryptophan into serotonin. This then stimulates brain chemicals that regulate mood, appetite and sleep patterns.
In several studies, it has been shown that 5-HTP can be just as effective as antidepressant drugs in treating depression. Some of these studies are flawed, including the small sample size and short duration. Several of the studies used SSRIs, which can interfere with 5-HTP's effectiveness.
5-HTP can be beneficial for a variety of ailments, such as chronic headaches and fibromyalgia. It can also assist in weight loss. It has been demonstrated that it improves sleeping habits and decreases fatigue in patients with fibromyalgia. It also has an calming effect and could decrease anxiety in some people. Studies have shown that 5-HTP may increase levels of Gamma aminobutyric (GABA), an important neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety.
Some studies suggest that 5-HTP may aid in treating other ailments associated with low serotonin like migraines or tension headaches. It has been demonstrated to boost melatonin, which is vital for healthy sleep patterns. In addition, some studies suggest that taking 100 mg of 5-HTP daily may relieve fibromyalgia pain, stiffness and mood.
Before taking 5-HTP, people should talk to their doctor. This is particularly important for those who are taking SSRI or MAOI medications because 5-HTP could interact with these drugs and cause dangerous side effects. Some people also experience nausea while taking high doses of 5HTP.
Kava
Kava is a well-known medicinal herb that comes from the Pacific Islands. It has been extensively used as a drink used for rituals and as a medication. It acts like alcohol in calming the mind and relaxing muscles, however it doesn't cause the adverse effects that come with numerous pharmaceutical drugs. The plant's active compound, kavalactone, alters the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway in the brain, causing anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Studies have shown it can be used for treating general anxiety disorder (GAD), stress, and without the "hangover" effect of conventional sedatives.
It has also been shown to provide a variety of other health benefits, including increasing dopamine levels, and relieving symptoms of chronic pain and fibromyalgia. depression management strategies reduces blood pressure, reduces stress hormones and enhances the immune system. Kava can be taken in the form of capsules, tablets or tinctures. It can also be mixed in teas or other drinks. It is a good idea to consult with your doctor before trying any herbal supplements. Dietary supplements aren't controlled by the FDA as such, and don't have to go through the same rigorous clinical tests that are required for prescription drugs. This could expose consumers to a range of risks, such as liver damage.
Kava should be avoided by those with heart, lung or liver problems. It can worsen these conditions. People who have pre-existing mental health issues should also avoid kava because it can cause dilated pupils, eyes that are red, and decreased muscle control (ataxia). When used in conjunction with other psychoactive substances, such as prescription medication or alcohol, kava could be dangerous. Kava is not recommended for pregnant women or nursing mothers.
Kava is a naturally occurring substance that is naturally occurring. Although there's no evidence to suggest that it is addictive however the risk of injury to the liver isn't completely eliminated. Those who are concerned about liver damage should talk with their doctor prior to starting a kava regimen. There is still the need for further research to pinpoint the risk factors that could make kava unsafe however for the majority of patients it's a safe choice when it is administered under medical supervision.
St. John's wort
St. John's Wort (Hypericum Perforatum) may help mild to moderate depression. Some research suggests that it can improve mood by changing the way your body uses serotonin and other chemicals. It also seems to work well with a type of antidepressant called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. These are the most commonly prescribed medications for treating depression. However, it may not be as effective for patients suffering from severe depression. And it's important to talk with a doctor before taking St. John's wort, as it can interact with some drugs in dangerous ways.
In a 12-week clinical study, St. John's Wort was just as effective as standard antidepressants in decreasing the symptoms of mild depression. In a separate study, a combination of St. John's herbal extract and citalopram which is an SSRI was as effective as a placebo for treating depression. This research was supported by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
There's not much research on the long-term use of St. John's wort, but some studies suggest it can be beneficial when used for a number of weeks or even months. You can purchase it dried in tablets or capsules, or in tea. It is possible to feel the effects in 3 to 6 weeks. St. John's Wort can interact with many medications including birth-control pills and antibiotics. It can also alter the way that your body metabolizes certain drugs, like opioids and sedatives. This could cause severe side effects when they are combined.
Depression is a serious illness that is why you shouldn't try to treat it yourself without seeing a healthcare provider. If you're considering natural remedies to treat depression, it's best to consult a naturopath or integrative medicine specialist who can help you make an informed decision. They may also recommend alternative approaches to healthcare that don't require prescription drugs. If required, they will refer you to a specialist. You will find a naturopath as well as an integrative healthcare practitioner in the Mayo Clinic directory.