Natural Remedies For Depression Strategies That Will Change Your Life
Natural Remedies For Depression
Depression is a challenging illness to treat. However, there are several effective treatments. Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy" is a vital component of treatment. Medications are effective in reducing symptoms.
Certain herbal supplements can help. For instance, St. John's wort is an herb that's FDA-approved for treating depression, could help alleviate symptoms in certain people. However, it can interfere with heart drugs or birth control pills, as well as medications that prevent rejection of organs following an organ transplant.
Saffron
Saffron is best known for its role in bringing colour to food items, but it's also an effective mood booster. It is a rich source of compounds, including crocetin and crocins which have antioxidant and radical-scavenging qualities, helping to protect against harmful free radicals. They can contribute to chronic diseases, such as depression.
The research that's been done on saffron and depression is mixed however, some of it is promising. In one study, people who were suffering from depression were randomly assigned to undergo a six-week saffron treatment or a placebo. Then, they were analyzed using the depression questionnaire as well as an anxiety questionnaire. The people who took the saffron reported less depression and anxiety than those who did not.
Other trials have not found the similar results. The article from the year 2019 mentioned above points to the fact that the majority of studies that have shown positive results were conducted using small samples, short-term follow-ups and were conducted in Iran where the researchers had financial ties with producers of saffron. This raises suspicions that the Iranian researchers could be exaggerating the benefits of saffron to treat depression.
It's possible that saffron may have antidepressant properties since it boosts serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which can improve mood and encourage relaxation. It is believed that saffron hinders synaptic serotonin uptake which helps to keep the chemical within the body.
In a different study, women who were experiencing symptoms of premenstrual bleeding were given either saffron extract or an inactive placebo for two months. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Premenstrual Daily Symptoms questionnaire were used to assess the women. The saffron supplement significantly improved PMS symptoms, and women who took it were more at coping with stress.
Saffron is a popular treatment for depression. However, we need larger, more long-term trials before it can become an approved treatment. It's also crucial to talk with your doctor before taking any dietary supplement for depression, particularly those that haven't been approved 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 related to anxiety and depression and sleep disorders, fibromyalgia, and depression and other health issues. Research has proven that 5-HTP supplements may increase serotonin levels and improve mood in some people. However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of this supplement can be in treating depression.
The amino acid tryptophan can be found in turkey, milk cheese, yogurt, and bananas. It is also available as an over-the counter dietary supplement. The body converts tryptophan into serotonin and it then triggers brain chemical changes that help to improve mood stability and regulate the appetite and sleep patterns.
In a number of studies it has been proven that 5-HTP can be just as effective as antidepressant drugs in treating depression. Some of these studies are flawed, such as the small sample size and the short duration. A few of the studies utilized SSRIs, which can interfere with 5-HTP's effectiveness.
5-HTP is beneficial for a variety of health conditions, such as chronic headaches and fibromyalgia. It can also assist with weight loss. It has been proven that it improves sleeping habits and reduces fatigue among patients with fibromyalgia. It also has a relaxing effect and can decrease anxiety in some people. Studies have also reported that 5-HTP may increase the gamma-aminobutyric acids (GABA) levels which is a neurotransmitter that may reduce anxiety and increase feelings of peace.
Some studies suggest that 5-HTP could aid in treating other ailments that are a result of low serotonin levels like migraines and tension headaches. depression treatment for elderly has also been shown to boost melatonin production which is essential for a healthy sleep pattern. Some research also suggests that 100 mg of 5-HTP per day could help relieve stiffness in fibromyalgia, pain and mood.
Anyone who is considering taking 5-HTP must discuss it with a doctor first. This is especially important for those who are taking SSRIs or MAOIs, as 5-HTP may interact with these medications and trigger dangerous adverse side effects. Some people may also experience nausea when taking high doses of 5HTP.
Kava
Kava is a traditional medicinal herb that comes from the Pacific Islands. It has been used for centuries as a drink used for rituals and as a medicinal. It functions similarly to alcohol to calm the mind and relax muscles however, it does not have the adverse effects of many prescription drugs. The active ingredient in the plant, kavalactone alters the gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a brain pathway that produces anxiolytics as well as antidepressants. Studies have shown it is a viable option for treating general anxiety disorder (GAD), stress, and without the "hangover" effects of traditional sedatives.
It has also been proven to have a range of other health benefits, including boosting dopamine levels and alleviating symptoms of chronic pain and fibromyalgia. It also reduces stress hormones, reduces blood pressure and boosts immune function. Kava is available in tablet, capsule or tincture form. Kava can be incorporated into drinks and teas. It is recommended to consult your physician before attempting any herbal supplements. The FDA doesn't regulate dietary supplements and therefore they don't need to go through the same rigorous clinical tests as prescription drugs. This puts the consumers exposed to various health hazards which include liver damage.
People who have pre-existing liver, lung, or heart issues should stay clear of the consumption of kava. It can aggravate those conditions. Kava should not be used by people suffering from mental health problems, since it can cause dilated pupillary, reddened eyeballs and reduced muscle control. Kava can be dangerous when used in conjunction with other psychoactive substances such as alcohol or prescription drugs. Kava is not recommended for pregnant women or nursing mothers.
Kava is an organic substance that occurs naturally. While there is no evidence to suggest that it is addictive however the risk of liver injury cannot be completely eliminated. Before starting a kava regime people who are concerned about liver damage should consult with their physician. There is still the need for further research to pinpoint the risk factors that could make kava dangerous however, for the majority of patients it's a safe choice when used under medical supervision.
St. John's wort
St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an herbal medication that can help people suffering from mild to moderate depression. Certain studies suggest that it can improve your mood by affecting how your body processes certain chemicals, such as serotonin. It also seems to work well with a particular type of antidepressant referred to as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. These are the most commonly prescribed medications to treat depression. It may not be effective for people suffering from severe depression however. It is important to speak with your doctor prior to taking St. John's Wort, since it can interact with certain drugs in dangerous ways.
In a 12-week study, St. John's wort was equally effective as a standard antidepressant in reducing symptoms of mild depression. In another study, a combination St. John's wort with citalopram (an SSRI) was as effective in treating depression as the placebo. This research was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
There's not much research on the long-term use of St. John's wort, however, some studies suggest it has benefits when taken for a number of weeks or even months. It is available as dried herb in capsules, tablets or tea. It may take up to 6 weeks before you notice the effects. St. John's Wort can interact with a variety of medications, such as birth control pills and antibiotics. It may also affect the way your body processes certain medications, including narcotics and sedatives, which can lead to potentially serious adverse effects if they're mixed.
It is not recommended to treat depression on your own. Instead, seek the advice of a medical professional. If you're thinking about using natural remedies to treat depression, it's best to visit a naturopath, or integrative medicine specialist who can help you make an informed choice. They can also suggest other complementary healthcare approaches that don't require prescription drugs. If necessary, they can refer you to an expert. You will find a naturopath as well as an integrative healthcare provider in the Mayo Clinic directory.