Natural Remedies For Depression

Depression is a difficult condition to treat. However there are a variety of effective treatments. Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," is an important part of treatment. Medications are effective in treating symptoms.

Certain herbal supplements may help. For example, St. John's wort, an herb that's not FDA-approved to treat depression, may improve symptoms in some people. However, this herb can interfere with heart drugs as well as birth control pills and medications that prevent rejection of organs after a transplant.

Saffron

Saffron is most famous for its ability to add color to foods, but it also acts as a natural mood booster. It is a rich source of compounds, including crocetin and crocins that possess antioxidant and radical-scavenging properties which help protect against harmful free radicals. They can contribute to chronic illnesses, such as depression and treatment.

Some of the research on the effects of saffron on depression are mixed. In one study, people with depression were randomly assigned to take saffron for a period of six weeks or placebo. Then, they were analyzed by using a questionnaire for anxiety and depression. Those who took saffron had less anxiety and depression than those who didn't.

Other studies have not yielded the similar results. In fact, the review article mentioned above mentions that a majority of the studies that have found benefits utilized small samples and brief follow-ups and the majority were done in Iran where the researchers have financial ties to the saffron producers. This raises suspicions that the Iranian researchers could be exaggerating the benefits of saffron for depression.

It's possible that saffron has antidepressant properties because it acts on the brain to increase serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that aids in improving mood and relaxation. It is believed that saffron functions by blocking synaptic serotonin's reuptake, thereby preserving more of the chemical in the brain.

In a different study women suffering from premenstrual symptoms were given either saffron extract or an inactive placebo for a period of two months. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Premenstrual Daily Symptoms questionnaire were used to assess the women. The women who took the extract of saffron had significant improvement in their PMS symptoms and were better at coping with stress than those taking the placebo.

Saffron is a well-known treatment for depression treatment history. However, we require larger, longer-term trials before it can become a recommended Alternative Treatment For Depression And Anxiety. Likewise, it's important to consult your physician before taking any dietary supplements for depression, particularly those that aren't approved by the FDA. They could interact with certain medications or trigger 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. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression treatment options and anxiety as well as sleep disorders and fibromyalgia and other health issues. Research has proven that 5-HTP supplements may increase serotonin levels and improve mood for some people. More research is required to determine the effectiveness of this supplement in treating depression.

The amino acid tryptophan is found in turkey, milk, cheese, yogurt and bananas. It is also available as a supplement to dietary intake over-the-counter. The body converts tryptophan to serotonin. This then stimulates brain chemicals that regulate mood, appetite and sleep patterns.

In a number of studies it has been proven that 5-HTP can be just as effective as antidepressant medications in treating menopause depression treatment. However, some of these studies are flawed due to small sample sizes and shorter durations. Some of the studies employed SSRIs that can affect the effectiveness of 5-HTP.

5-HTP is beneficial for many ailments, such as fibromyalgia and chronic headaches. It can also assist in weight loss. It has been demonstrated to improve sleeping habits and reduce fatigue in people suffering from fibromyalgia. It also appears to have a relaxing effect and can decrease anxiety in some people. Research has also indicated that 5-HTP may increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels which is a neurotransmitter that may help reduce anxiety and boost feelings of calm.

Certain studies suggest that 5-HTP may aid in treating other conditions that are that are a result of low serotonin levels such as migraines or tension headaches. It has been shown to increase melatonin levels, which is crucial for healthy sleep patterns. A few studies suggest that 100 mg of 5-HTP daily can help ease fibromyalgia stiffness, pain and mood.

People who are thinking of taking 5-HTP must discuss it with a doctor first. This is important for people who are taking MAOIs or SSRIs as 5-HTP could interact with these medications and trigger dangerous adverse effects. Some people be prone to nausea when taking large doses of 5HTP.

Kava

Kava is a native of the Pacific Islands, has been utilized as a healing herb and drink for ceremonial purposes for many centuries. It works like alcohol in calming mind and relaxing muscles, but it doesn't come with the side negative effects of numerous pharmaceutical drugs. The active ingredient in the plant, kavalactone alters the gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is a brain-related pathway that produces antidepressants and anxiolytics. Studies have shown that it is effective to treat general anxiety disorder (GAD) and stress, without causing the "hangover effect" of some sedatives.

It has also been found to provide a variety of other health benefits, like increasing dopamine levels and reducing symptoms of chronic pain and fibromyalgia. It also lowers blood pressure, decreases stress hormones and enhances the immune system. Kava can be taken in the form of capsules, tablets or tinctures. Kava can also be added into teas or other beverages. It is recommended to consult with your physician before taking any herbal supplements. Dietary supplements aren't controlled by the FDA, so they are not subject to the same rigorous tests for clinical effectiveness as prescription drugs. This puts consumers at risk of various health hazards such as liver damage.

Kava should not be used by those suffering from heart, lung, or liver conditions. It could aggravate these conditions. People with pre-existing mental health issues should avoid kava because it can cause dilated pupils, eyes that are red and irritated, as well as decreased muscle control (ataxia). Kava can be harmful when used in conjunction with other psychoactive substances, such as alcohol or prescription drugs. It is also not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing mothers.

Kava is naturally occurring substance that occurs naturally. Although there's no evidence that it's addictive but the risk of liver injury isn't completely eliminated. Before beginning a kava regimen, those who are worried about liver damage should consult their doctor. There is a need for more studies to determine the risk factors that make kava dangerous however for the majority of patients it's a safe choice when under medical supervision.

St. John's Wort

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a herbal remedy that may help those suffering from mild to moderate depression. Some research shows that it can improve your mood by altering how your body uses certain chemicals, like serotonin. It also seems to be effective with a specific type of antidepressant known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These are the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat depression. However, it might not be as effective on patients suffering from severe depression. And it's important to talk with your doctor prior to taking St. John's Wort, since it can interact with certain medications in potentially dangerous ways.

In a 12-week clinical study, St. John's wort was just as effective as an antidepressant in decreasing symptoms of minor depression. In another study, a combination of with St. John's wort and citalopram (an SSRI) was as effective in treating depression as a placebo. This research was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

St. John's Wort has been less studied over the long term However, some studies have shown that it is beneficial when used for several weeks or months. You can purchase it as dried herb in tablets, capsules or tea. The effects may be felt within 3 to 6 weeks. St. John's Wort can interact with a variety of medications, including birth-control pills and antibiotics. It may also affect the way your body's metabolism reacts to certain drugs, like the narcotics and sedatives that can lead to potentially serious adverse effects when they're combined.

Depression is a serious disease and you shouldn't attempt to treat it on your own without seeing a healthcare provider. If you're thinking of using natural treatments for depression, it is recommended to consult a Naturopath. They can assist you to make an informed decision. They may also recommend other complementary healthcare approaches that don't require prescription drugs. If required, they will refer you to a specialist. The Mayo Clinic directory has a list of naturopaths and integrative healthcare providers.