Natural Remedies For Depression
Depression is a challenging condition to treat. However there are a variety of effective treatments. Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy" is a vital component of treatment. The use of medication is effective in treating symptoms.
Certain herbal supplements may help. For instance, St. John's wort, an herb that's not FDA-approved to treat depression may improve symptoms in some people. It may interact with birth control pills, heart drugs, and medications that stop rejection of organs after an organ transplant.
Saffron
Saffron is most well-known for its role in bringing the color of food, but it's also a natural mood enhancer. It's a source of a variety of substances, like crocetin and crocins which have antioxidant properties and are capable of scavenging radicals that help to guard against harmful free radicals. They can contribute to chronic illnesses, such as depression.
The research that's been done on saffron and depression is mixed however, some of the results are promising. In one study, people with depression were randomized to take either saffron or placebo for six weeks. They were then assessed using a depression questionnaire as well as an anxiety questionnaire. The people who took saffron experienced less depression and anxiety than those who didn't.
Other studies have not yielded the same results. The article from the year 2019 mentioned above highlights the fact that many studies that found positive results used small samples, brief-term follow-ups and were conducted in Iran where the researchers had financial ties with saffron producers. This raises doubts about Iranian researchers' claims that saffron is beneficial for depression.
It's possible that saffron has antidepressant properties because it increases serotonin in the brain. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, can improve mood and improve relaxation. It's thought that saffron works by preventing synaptic serotonin reuptake, which keeps more of the chemical in the brain.
In a different study, women who were experiencing premenstrual symptoms were given either saffron extract or an inactive placebo for two months. They were then screened using a Premenstrual Daily Symptoms (PDS) questionnaire as well as the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Those who took the saffron extract experienced significant improvement in their PMS symptoms and were more at coping with stress better than those who took the placebo.
Saffron is a popular treatment for depression. However, we require larger, more long-term trials before it can become a treatment option. It's also important to consult your doctor prior to taking any nutritional supplement for depression, especially those that have not been approved by the FDA. They could 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 have been linked to depression, anxiety as well as fibromyalgia, sleep disorders and a variety of other health problems. Research has shown that 5-HTP supplements can raise serotonin levels and improve mood for some people. More research is required to determine the efficacy of this supplement in treating depression.
Tryptophan can be found in milk, bananas cheese, yogurt and other dairy products. It is also available as an over-the-counter dietary supplement. The body transforms tryptophan into serotonin and it then triggers brain chemical changes that improve mood stability and regulate sleep and appetite.
In a number of studies it has been demonstrated that 5-HTP can be just as effective as antidepressant medications in treating depression. However some of these studies are flawed due to small samples and short durations. Several of the studies used SSRIs, which can hinder the effectiveness of 5-HTP.
5-HTP can be beneficial for a range of health conditions, including chronic headaches, fibromyalgia, and weight loss. It has been proven to improve sleeping habits and decrease fatigue in people suffering from fibromyalgia. It may also have a calming affect and reduce anxiety in certain people. Research has also indicated that 5-HTP could increase the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels which is a neurotransmitter, which can reduce anxiety and increase feelings of peace.
Some studies suggest that 5-HTP can help treat other conditions that are a result of low serotonin, such as migraines and tension headaches. It has also been shown to help increase melatonin production which is crucial for a healthy sleep pattern. Research suggests that consuming 100 mg of 5-HTP per day can help ease fibromyalgia stiffness and pain, as well as mood.
Before taking 5-HTP, people should talk to their doctor. This is particularly crucial for those taking SSRI or MAOI medicines because 5-HTP could interact with these medications and cause dangerous side effects. Some people also experience nausea while taking high doses of 5HTP.
Kava
Kava is a native of the Pacific Islands, has been used as a medicinal herb and ceremonial drink for hundreds of years. It functions like alcohol in calming the mind and relaxing muscles, however it doesn't cause the adverse negative effects of numerous pharmaceutical drugs. The plant's active ingredient, 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), stress, and without the "hangover" effect of some conventional sedatives.
It has also been found to provide a variety of other health benefits, such as boosting dopamine levels and alleviating symptoms of chronic pain and fibromyalgia. It also lowers stress hormones, reduces blood pressure and boosts immunity. Kava is available in tablet, capsule or tincture forms. Kava can also be added into teas or other beverages. It is a good idea to consult with your doctor before trying any herbal supplements. The FDA doesn't regulate dietary supplements and therefore they don't need to go through the same rigorous tests as prescription drugs. This leaves consumers vulnerable to various health risks, including liver damage.
People with pre-existing liver, lung, or heart ailments should avoid the consumption of kava. It can aggravate these ailments. Kava should be avoided by people with mental health problems, since it can cause dilated pupillary eyeballs, reddened eyes, and diminished muscle control. When used in conjunction with other psychoactive drugs like prescription medications or alcohol, kava can be dangerous. Kava should be avoided by nursing mothers and pregnant mothers.
progressive depression treatment I Am Psychiatry is naturally occurring substance that occurs naturally. While there is no evidence that it's addictive, the risk of injury to the liver isn't completely eliminated. Anyone who is concerned about liver damage should talk with their physician prior to beginning a kava regimen. More research is needed to discover the causes that make kava risky, but it's generally safe for patients when used under medical supervision.
St. John's wort
St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a natural remedy that can help people suffering from mild to moderate depression. A few studies have shown that it may improve your mood by altering how your body uses certain chemicals, including serotonin. It also appears to work well with a particular type of antidepressant called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. They are the most frequently prescribed medications for treating depression. It may not work as well for people with severe depression, however. St. John's wort can interact with certain medications in a dangerous way and therefore it is recommended to talk to a doctor before making any decisions.
In a 12-week clinical study, St. John's Wort was just as effective as antidepressants that are standard in reducing symptoms of minor depression. In another study, a mixture of St. John's wort with citalopram (an SSRI) was as effective in treating depression as a placebo. This research was funded through the National Institute of Mental Health.
There's less research on long-term use of St. John's wort, but some studies suggest it can be beneficial when used for a number of weeks or even months. It is available dried in capsules or tablets, or in tea. It could take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks before you notice the effects. St. John's Wort can interact with many medications including birth-control pills and antibiotics. It can also alter the way your body processes certain drugs, like sedatives and opioids, which could cause serious side effects if combined.
It is not recommended to treat depression by yourself. Instead, you should consult a healthcare professional. If you're thinking of using natural remedies to treat depression, it is recommended to consult a Naturopath. They can assist you to make an educated decision. They can also suggest alternative treatments that don't require prescription medications. They can also refer you an expert if needed. You can locate a naturopath or integrative healthcare practitioner in the Mayo Clinic directory.