Depression is a common symptom that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by feelings of hopelessness and despair. It can produce mood swings, causes sleep disturbances, head aches, lead to substance abuse, and may even result in suicide if it is not properly treated. In addition to counseling and anti depressants, there are also herbal remedies for depression available as well.
Herbs such as St. John’s Wort, Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng and Valerian root as well as others can be effective in helping to provide depression relief through altering the body’s biochemical processes. Some of these herbs can help to restore lost cell enzymes or brain chemicals. Other herbs can help to increase the level of some specific hormones. Herbal remedies for depression are natural and safe and do not produce a lot of unhealthy side effects.
There are several different herbal remedies that are available.
St John’s wort works as a trycylic antidepressant and an anti-viral and antibiotic agent, while at the same time producing very few side effects. There have been over twenty clinical trials conducted on St. John’s Wort and the studies show that it can be an effective antidepressant for moderate and mild depression while producing few side effects. However it has not been shown to be effective for major forms of depression.
Ginkgo Biloba is an herbal remedy that acts as a strong antidepressant. It helps to increase the flow of blood to the brain as well as other parts of the body. This not only helps with depression but also helps to boost the memory, helps to promote good cardiovascular health and can help to alleviate some Alzheimer’s symptoms.
Ginseng helps to relieve stress, including from trauma, lack of sleep or illness. Ginseng helps to regulate the body’s blood sugar levels and stimulate the immune system.
Omega-3 fatty acids are needed for the brain to function normally. Our bodies do not produce them naturally. They need to come from our diet. There have been studies which have linked depression with low omega-3 fatty acid dietary intake. Countries like Taiwan and Japan, where people eat a lot of fish, have much lower depression levels. Fish like salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3s and fish oil capsules can also be taken.
Valerian root can help with sleep deprivation which has been linked to depression.
Herbal remedies for depression can be a natural, safe and effective way to help relieve some of the symptoms of depression. They should not be used in conjunction with anti depressants and other medications without first consulting with your physician or other health care provider.
Thu, Nov 12, 2009
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