Natural Remedies For Depression

Depression is a tough condition to treat. However there are a variety of effective treatments. Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," is a crucial component of treatment. Medications are effective in reducing symptoms.

Some herbal supplements may also aid. St. John's Wort, an herb that is not FDA-approved to treat depression, can help improve symptoms in certain people. It may interact with birth control pills, heart drugs, and drugs that can prevent rejection of organs following an organ transplant.

Saffron

Saffron is most famous for its role in adding color to foods but it also acts as a natural mood enhancer. It contains a number compounds, including crocetin and crocins, that have antioxidant and radical-scavenging qualities, helping to protect against harmful free radicals. These may contribute to chronic illnesses, such as depression.

The research that's been done on saffron and depression is mixed, but some of the results are promising. In one study, people who were suffering from depression treatment nice were randomly assigned to take saffron for a period of six weeks or a placebo. Then, they were analyzed using a depression questionnaire and an anxiety test. Saffron users had less anxiety and depression than those who did not.

Other studies have not yielded the similar results. In fact, the review article mentioned above points out that many of the studies that have found benefits used small samples and brief follow-ups and the majority were done in Iran, where the researchers have financial ties with saffron manufacturers. This suggests that the Iranian researchers might be exaggerating the benefits of saffron in treating depression.

It's possible that saffron has antidepressant properties since it boosts serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter can improve mood and encourage relaxation. It is believed that saffron blocks synaptic serotonin absorption and keeps the chemical in the body.

In a different study women suffering from premenstrual symptoms were given either saffron extract or an inactive placebo for a period of two months. Then, they were analyzed by using a Premenstrual Daytime Symptoms (PDS) questionnaire and the Hamilton depression pharmacological treatment (please click the following article) Rating Scale. Those who took the saffron extract noticed a significant improvement in their PMS symptoms and were better in coping with stress better than those who took the placebo.

There's a lot of interest in saffron's use for depression, but we need to see more extensive, long-term clinical trials before it can be suggested as an option to treat. Also, it's essential to consult your physician prior to taking any dietary supplements for depression, particularly ones that aren't certified 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. Serotonin levels are low and associated with anxiety and depression and sleep disorders, fibromyalgia, and post stroke depression treatment as well as other health issues. Studies have shown that 5-HTP supplements can boost serotonin levels and improve mood in some people. More research is required to determine the effectiveness of this supplement in treating depression.

The amino acid tryptophan can be found in milk, turkey, cheese, yogurt and bananas. It is also offered as a dietary supplement over-the-counter. The body transforms tryptophan into serotonin which stimulates brain chemical changes that help to improve mood stability and regulate sleep and appetite.

In several studies it has been proven 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 short durations. Several of the studies used SSRIs, which can interfere with 5-HTP's effectiveness.

5-HTP could be beneficial for a wide range of health conditions, such as chronic headaches, fibromyalgia and weight loss. It has been demonstrated to improve sleeping habits and decrease fatigue in patients with fibromyalgia. It also seems to have a relaxing effect and can reduce anxiety in certain people. Studies have reported that 5-HTP may increase levels of the gamma aminobutyric (GABA) which is a neurotransmitter which can help reduce anxiety.

Certain studies suggest that 5-HTP may aid in treating other conditions that are caused by low serotonin, such as migraines or tension headaches. It has been proven to increase melatonin, which is vital for healthy sleep patterns. A few studies suggest that taking 100 mg of 5-HTP per day could help relieve stiffness in fibromyalgia, pain and mood.

Before taking 5-HTP, people should consult their doctor. This is important for people who are taking MAOIs or SSRIs as 5-HTP could interact with these medications and cause dangerous side-effects. Additionally the excessive doses of 5-HTP may cause nausea in certain individuals.

Kava

Kava is a traditional medicinal herb that comes from the Pacific Islands. It has been used for centuries as a ceremonial drink and as a medicinal. It works like alcohol in calming the mind and relaxing muscles, however it doesn't cause the adverse effects that come with many pharmaceutical drugs. The plant's active component, kavalactone, alters the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway in the brain to produce anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Studies have shown it is effective in treating general anxiety disorder (GAD) and stress and without the "hangover" effect of some conventional sedatives.

It has also been found to have a range of other health benefits, including increasing dopamine levels, and relieving symptoms of chronic pain and fibromyalgia. It also reduces blood pressure, reduces stress hormones, and improves the immune system. Kava can be consumed in the form of tablets, capsules or tinctures. Kava can also be added into teas or other beverages. It is a good idea to talk with your doctor before trying any herbal supplements. The FDA does not regulate supplements for dietary use and therefore they don't need to go through the same rigorous clinical tests as prescription drugs. This could expose consumers to a range of risks, including liver damage.

Kava should not be used by people with heart, lung or liver problems. It could aggravate these conditions. Kava should be avoided by people with mental health issues because it may cause dilated pupil eyeballs, reddened eyes, and diminished muscle control. Kava is a risk when it is combined with other psychoactive substances like alcohol or prescription medications. Kava should be avoided by nursing mothers and pregnant mothers.

Kava is an organic substance and there's no evidence it has addictive properties, however the risk of liver damage can't be completely eliminated. Before starting a kava regime people who are concerned about liver damage should consult with their physician. There is an urgent need for more studies to determine the risk factors that could make kava dangerous however, for the majority of patients, it's a safe option when used under medical supervision.

St. John's Wort

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a herbal remedy that may help those suffering from mild to moderate depression. Some research suggests that it may boost mood by changing the way your body uses chemicals such as serotonin. It also appears to be a part of a type antidepressant called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These are the most commonly used medications used to treat depression. It might not work as well for those suffering from severe depression, however. St. John's Wort can interact with certain medications in a dangerous way It is therefore recommended to consult with a physician first.

In a 12-week clinical study, St. John's Wort was as effective as standard antidepressants in reducing symptoms of depression that are minor. In another study, a mixture of with St. John's Wort with citalopram (an SSRI) was as effective in treating depression as a placebo. The research was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health.

St. John's Wort has been studied less over a long period of time however certain studies have proven that it is beneficial if taken for a few weeks or even months. You can purchase it as a dried herb in tablets, capsules or tea. It is possible to feel the effects within 3 to 6 weeks. St. John's Wort can interact with various medications, such as birth control pills and antibiotics. It also can affect how your body's metabolism reacts to certain drugs, such as the narcotics and sedatives that could lead to serious adverse effects if they're mixed.

Depression is a serious disease that is why you shouldn't try to treat it on your own without seeing a healthcare provider. If you're thinking about using natural remedies for depression, you should see a naturopath or integrative medicine to treat anxiety and depression specialist who can assist you in making an informed choice. They can also recommend alternative methods of healthcare that don't involve prescription medications. They can also refer you specialists if you require. You can locate a naturopath or integrative healthcare practitioner in the Mayo Clinic directory.