Herbal remedies for depression are natural and effective ways to treat depression without the side effects associated with antidepressant medications. Depression is a serious condition that affects relationships, work performance, appetite, sleep, and physical health. If you suffer from depression you are not alone. Approximately 19 million Americans suffer from depression every year. Natural herbal remedies for depression benefit those who seek an alternative to anti-depressant drugs.
Antidepressant medication is one option to treat depression. However, there are a myriad of side effects and many are addictive. It is worth evaluating natural herbal remedies and other natural alternatives before deciding to take antidepressants. Research studies have found herbal remedies to be as effective as prescription drugs for reducing both depression and anxiety.
Among the herbal remedies for anxiety and depression, the most widely recognized is St. John’s wort. It has been scientifically proven an effective antidepressant and sedative. Studies have found that it increases serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood. Low serotonin levels have been connected to depression and many antidepressant drugs function by increasing serotonin levels. 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) also increases serotonin levels and clinical research has proven that it effectively treats depression. SAM-e (S-adenosyl-L-methionine) and Kava Kava are two other herbal options for depression that are backed by scientific studies. Valerian Root alleviates insomnia, which can be a symptom of depression. Ginko Biloba is an herbal remedy primarily used for the elderly due to its’ ability to increase blood flow in the brain which increases memory and improves mood. It is a beneficial herbal remedy for depression when the depression is due to restricted cerebral blood flow.
Most of the herbs and spices in your kitchen have medicinal qualities and are considered healing herbs. When consumed regularly, they have curative properties that can be very powerful and effective. Herbs and spices can be added to food or teas. Sage, for instance, has been proven in studies to elevate mood and decrease anxiety. For thousands of years, traditional practitioners in India have used Cardamom (an Indian spice) to treat depression. Several clinical trials have shown that Saffron (the yellow spice) is as effective as many anti-depressant drugs in treating mild to moderate depression. One clinical study found Saffron as effective as Prozac for mild to moderate depression. Make sure the Saffron is high quality and 100 per cent pure, which will make a difference in its effectiveness.
Check with your doctor or healthcare practitioner before taking any herbal remedies for anxiety and depression. Most herbs should not be taken with anti-depressant drugs and some may interact with other medications or health problems. If you are pregnant, consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner before taking any herbs.
Consider herbal remedies for depression before taking antidepressant drugs with harmful side effects, more and more clinical trials are proving their effectiveness. In addition, herbal remedies have been used in traditional cultures for centuries, which is proof of its effectiveness and safety. The most important thing is to be proactive with your own health and realize that you can be helped.
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