Natural Remedies For Depression
Depression isn't easy to treat, but there are many effective ways to treat it. Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," is a crucial component of treatment. The use of medication is effective in relieving symptoms.
Some herbal supplements can also aid. St. John's Wort, an herb that isn't FDA-approved for treating depression may improve symptoms in some people. However, it could interfere with heart medication, birth control pills and drugs that can prevent rejection of organs following a transplant.
Saffron
Saffron's primary purpose is to bring color to food however, it also functions as a mood enhancer. It's made up of a variety of compounds, like Crocins and crocetins that contain antioxidants and radical scavenging properties, that help fight harmful free radicals which could cause chronic illnesses such as depression.
A portion of the research on the effects of saffron on depression is mixed. In one study, individuals with depression were randomly assigned to take saffron for six weeks or placebo. After that, they were assessed with an anxiety and depression questionnaire. Those who took saffron were less depressed and anxious than those who did not.
However, other studies have not been able to prove the similar effect. In fact, the review article cited above reveals that a lot of the studies that have found benefits used small samples and short-lived follow-ups and a majority were conducted in Iran which is where the researchers have financial ties to manufacturers of saffron. This raises doubts about Iranian researchers' claims that saffron is beneficial to depression.
It's possible that saffron may have antidepressant properties since it boosts serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which aids in improving mood and relaxation. It is believed that saffron acts by preventing synaptic serotonin reuptake, which keeps more of the chemical in the brain.
In a separate study women suffering from premenstrual symptoms were given either saffron or an inactive-control for two months. Then, they were analyzed with a Premenstrual Daily Symptoms (PDS) questionnaire as well as the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. The women who took saffron extract noticed a significant improvement in their PMS symptoms and were more able to cope with stress better than those who took the placebo.
There's a lot of interest in saffron's use for depression, but we have to see larger, longer-term clinical studies before it is recommended as a treatment. Also, it's essential to consult with your doctor before taking any dietary supplements for depression, particularly those that aren't approved by the FDA. They can interact with other 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 related to anxiety and depression as well as sleep disorders and fibromyalgia and other health issues. Research has proven that 5-HTP supplements can increase serotonin levels and improve mood for some people. More research is needed to determine the efficacy of this supplement in treating depression.
The amino acid tryptophan is found in milk, turkey, cheese, yogurt and bananas. It is also sold as a supplement to dietary intake over-the-counter. The body converts tryptophan into serotonin. This then stimulates brain chemicals that help regulate appetite, mood and sleep patterns.
In a number of studies it has been demonstrated 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 the short duration. In addition, a few of the studies have used SSRI medications, which can interfere with the effectiveness of 5-HTP.
5-HTP can be beneficial for many ailments, such as chronic headaches and fibromyalgia. It can also assist in weight loss. It has been proven that it improves sleeping habits and reduces fatigue among fibromyalgia sufferers. It also has an calming effect and could reduce anxiety in certain people. Studies have shown that 5-HTP may increase levels of Gamma aminobutyric (GABA) which is an important neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety.
Certain studies suggest that 5-HTP can help treat other conditions that are a result of low serotonin levels such as migraines or tension headaches. It has been demonstrated to increase melatonin levels, which is vital for healthy sleep patterns. Additionally, studies suggest that taking 100 mg of 5-HTP per day can ease fibromyalgia-related pain, stiffness and mood.
Before taking 5-HTP, patients should consult with their physician. This is particularly crucial for those taking SSRI or MAOI medications because 5-HTP may interact with these drugs and cause dangerous side effects. Additionally the high doses of 5-HTP can cause nausea in certain individuals.
Kava
Kava is a native of the Pacific Islands, has been used as a medicine and a drink for ceremonies for hundreds of years. It functions similar to alcohol in helping to relax the mind and relax muscles but without the negative effects of many prescription drugs. The active ingredient in the plant, kavalactone alters the gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a neurotransmitter that produces anxiolytics and antidepressants. Research has shown that it is effective to treat general anxiety disorder (GAD) and stress, without producing the "hangover effect" of some conventional sedatives.
It has been demonstrated to provide numerous health benefits. It is believed to boost dopamine and alleviating the symptoms of chronic pain or fibromyalgia. It also reduces stress hormones, decreases blood pressure, and improves the immune system. Kava is available in tablet, capsule or tincture forms. Kava can be added to drinks and teas. You should consult your doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Dietary supplements aren't controlled by the FDA as such, and are not subject to the same rigorous clinical tests that are required for prescription drugs. This can leave consumers vulnerable to a variety of risks, like liver damage.
People with liver, lung, or heart issues should stay clear of kava. It can worsen these conditions. Kava should be avoided by those suffering from mental health issues, as it may cause dilated pupil eyeballs, reddened eyes, and diminished muscle control. Kava can be dangerous when it is combined with other psychoactive substances such as alcohol or prescription drugs. It should also be avoided by pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
Kava is an organic substance and there's no evidence it has addictive properties, but the risk of damage to the liver isn't completely eliminated. Before beginning a kava regimen, those who are worried about liver damage should consult their doctor. There is still an urgent need for more studies to determine the risks that could make kava dangerous however, for the majority of patients it's a good choice when used under medical supervision.
St. finding the right depression treatment . John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an herbal medication that can help people suffering from mild to moderate depression. Certain studies suggest that it can boost your mood by altering the way your body uses certain chemicals, including serotonin. It also appears to work with a type antidepressant known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. These are the most common medications used to treat depression. It may not work as well for those suffering from severe depression, however. St. John's wort may interact dangerously with some medications, so it's best to consult with a physician first.
In a 12-week study, St. John's wort was equally effective as a standard antidepressant in reducing symptoms of minor depression. In a different study, a combination of. John's wort and citalopram, an SSRI, was as effective as a placebo for treating depression. This research was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health.
There's not as much research on long-term use of St. John's wort, however some studies suggest that it has benefits when taken for a period of time, such as a few 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. It is important to inform your doctor or naturopath what other medications you're taking prior to trying it, because St. John's wort can interfere with a variety of medications, including birth control pills and antibiotics. It may also affect the way your body processes certain medications, including the narcotics and sedatives that could lead to serious side effects if they're combined.
Depression is a serious illness that is why you shouldn't try to treat it yourself without seeing a healthcare provider. If you are considering using natural remedies to treat depression you should talk to a naturopath. They can help you make an educated decision. They can also suggest alternative healthcare options that do not involve prescription medication. They can also refer you to a specialist if necessary. The Mayo Clinic directory has a list of naturopaths and integrative healthcare providers.