Herbal Remedies For Depression
Depression is an illness that affects almost 20 million Americans each year. In addition to trauma exposure, it has been found that the illness occurs in those whose brains experience abnormal production of certain mood-affecting chemicals. Currently, there is a gang of prescription antidepressant medications to which one can turn for relief. However, research suggests that antidepressants can actually worsen symptoms and even lead to suicide. These findings have caused the public to seek alternative treatment for their ailment.
Herbal remedies for depression have become increasingly popular with both public knowledge of antidepressant side effects and trends toward a more health conscious society. These remedies can be utilized in the form of either herbal supplements or just in one’s every day diet. Below are recommendations of three different herbs that, research suggests, are therapeutic: St. John’s wort, Ginkgo biloba, and licorice.
St. John’s wort – This is the best known and most widely used of the herbal remedies for depression. It has a long folk history in treating anxiety, may also be used as a mood enhancer and is said to improve sleep quality. This herb can be steeped in tea or taken as an herbal supplement.
Ginkgo biloba – Although it is a function that is more popular as a memory-enhancer, ginkgo improves blood circulation within the brain. Therefore, since depression largely involves brain chemical abnormality, this supplement will improve memory and provide mood stimulation. This supplement should be taken no more than twice a day (or be prepared to have an upset stomach).
Licorice – Finally Yet Importantly, licorice root is another traditional remedy for depression that has long had a history of mood enhancement. Research suggests that there are up to eight different compounds in licorice that act as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, which essentially treat depression. Licorice root can be found in several different forms, including tea, lozenges, and capsules.
With the rise in public knowledge of the deadly side effects of prescribed antidepressants, herbal remedies for depression are becoming increasingly popular. Herbs such as, St. John’s wort, ginkgo biloba, and licorice are just a few options.
Anyone with signs of mental illness should consult with his or her personal physician when seeking any type of treatment.
April 12, 2011
