Natural Remedies For Depression

Depression can be difficult to manage, but there are many efficient methods. Medications can reduce symptoms, and psychotherapy -- or "talk therapy" is an important component of home treatment for depression.

Some herbal supplements can also aid. St. John's Wort, an herb that is not FDA-approved for treating depression, can help improve symptoms in some people. However, this herb can interfere with heart drugs as well as birth control pills and drugs that prevent organ rejection after the transplant.

Saffron

Saffron's primary purpose is to add color to food, but it also acts as a mood booster. It contains a number compounds, such crocetin, and crocins, that have antioxidant and radical-scavenging properties which help protect against harmful free radicals. These can cause chronic illnesses, including depression.

The research done on saffron and depression has been mixed, but some of it seems promising. In one study, people who suffered from depression were randomly assigned to take either saffron, or placebo for six weeks. After that, they were assessed by using a depression and anxiety questionnaire. Those who took saffron had less anxiety and depression than those who didn't.

Other trials have not found the similar results. In fact, the review article above reveals that a lot of the studies that found benefits utilized small samples and short-lived follow-ups, and most of them were conducted in Iran where the researchers have financial connections to saffron manufacturers. This raises suspicions about the Iranian researchers' claims that saffron is beneficial to depression.

It's possible that saffron has antidepressant properties due to its ability to increase serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter aids in improving mood and encourage relaxation. It is believed that saffron blocks serotonin synaptic uptake and keeps the chemical in the body.

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. People who took the saffron extract noticed a significant improvement in their PMS symptoms and were more in coping with stress better than those who took the placebo.

Saffron is a popular what treatment is there for depression for depression. However, we need larger, more long-term trials before it becomes a treatment resistant depression treatment option. It's also crucial to talk with your doctor prior to using any dietary supplement to treat depression, particularly those that haven't been approved by the FDA. They may interact with certain medications or trigger serious side 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. Serotonin levels are low and related to anxiety and depression, fibromyalgia and sleep disorders as well as other health issues. Research has proven that 5-HTP supplements can boost serotonin and improve mood in certain people. However it is still necessary to conduct more research to determine the effectiveness of this supplement is in treating depression.

The amino acid tryptophan is found in turkey, milk yogurt, cheese, and bananas. It is also available as a dietary supplement over-the-counter. The body converts tryptophan to serotonin and it then triggers brain chemical changes that help to improve mood stability and aid in regulating the appetite and sleep patterns.

In a variety of studies it has been demonstrated that 5-HTP is as effective as antidepressant drugs in treating depression. However, some of these studies have flaws, such as small sample sizes and shorter durations. Furthermore, some of the studies have used SSRI medications, which could affect the effectiveness of 5-HTP.

5-HTP may be beneficial for a variety of health conditions, including fibromyalgia, chronic headaches and weight loss. It has been proven to improve sleep patterns and decrease fatigue in patients with fibromyalgia. It could also have an calming effect and decrease anxiety in certain people. Studies have reported that 5-HTP can increase levels of the gamma aminobutyric (GABA) which is an important neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety.

Some studies suggest that 5-HTP can aid in treating other ailments which are related to low serotonin, such as migraines and tension headaches. It has also been shown to help increase melatonin production which is crucial for healthy sleep patterns. Some research also suggests that 100 mg of 5-HTP per day may help relieve fibromyalgia stiffness and pain, as well as mood.

Before taking 5-HTP, people should talk to their doctor. This is important non drug treatment for anxiety and depression people who are taking MAOIs or SSRIs, as 5-HTP may interact with these medications and trigger dangerous adverse effects. In addition the high doses of 5-HTP could cause nausea in certain people.

Kava

Kava is a native of the Pacific Islands, has been utilized as a healing herb and ceremonial drink for many centuries. It works like alcohol in calming mind and relaxing muscles, however it doesn't cause the adverse effects associated with many prescription drugs. The plant's active ingredient, kavalactone, alters the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway in the brain, causing anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Studies have demonstrated that it can be used for treating general anxiety disorder (GAD), stress, and without the "hangover" effect of traditional sedatives.

It has been shown to provide numerous health benefits. It is believed to boost dopamine levels and easing the symptoms of chronic pain or fibromyalgia. It also reduces blood pressure, lowers stress hormones and boosts the immune system. Kava is available in capsule, tablet or tincture form. It can also be mixed into teas or other beverages. It is recommended to consult with your physician before taking any herbal supplements. Dietary supplements aren't regulated by the FDA as such, and do not have to undergo the same rigorous clinical tests as prescription drugs. This leaves the consumers exposed to various health risks such as liver damage.

Kava should not be used by those with heart, lung or liver problems. It could aggravate these conditions. Kava should not be used by people suffering from mental health issues, as it may cause dilated pupil eyeballs, reddened eyes and decreased muscle control. When combined with other psychoactive drugs, like prescription medications or alcohol, kava may be dangerous. It is also not recommended for pregnant women or nursing mothers.

Kava is a naturally occurring substance that is naturally occurring. While there is no evidence that it's addictive, the risk of causing liver damage cannot be eliminated. Before starting a kava regime anyone who is concerned about liver damage should consult their doctor. There is still a need for more research to pinpoint the risk factors that make kava unsafe however for the majority of patients, it's a safe option when it is administered under medical supervision.

St. John's wort

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a herbal remedy that can help people suffering from mild to moderate depression. A few studies have shown that it can boost your mood by altering how your body utilizes certain chemicals, including serotonin. It also appears to work with a specific type of antidepressant known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. These are the most commonly prescribed medications for treating depression treatment without medicines. However, it might not be as effective for people with severe forms of depression. St. John's wort can interact with certain medications in a dangerous way, so it's best to consult a doctor first.

In one 12-week clinical trial, St. John's wort was equally effective as a standard antidepressant for reducing symptoms of mild depression. In another study, a mixture of with St. John's wort and citalopram (an SSRI) was as effective in treating post Stroke depression treatment as the placebo. The 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 it can be beneficial when used for a number of weeks or even months. You can buy it dried in tablets, capsules, or tea. It may take up to 6 weeks before you notice the effects. It is important to inform your doctor or naturopath of any other medication you're taking before making the decision to try it, since St. John's wort can interfere with many medications, including some birth control pills and antibiotics. It can also alter the way that your body metabolizes certain drugs, like sedatives and opioids, which could lead to severe side effects when they are combined.

You should not try to treat depression by yourself. Instead, you should consult with a medical professional. If you're thinking about using natural remedies to treat depression, it's best to see a naturopath or integrative medicine specialist who can assist you in making an informed decision. They can also suggest complementary alternatives to healthcare that don't 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.