Herbs
for depression
According to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health, depression
affects nearly 19 million Americans every year. Luckily, advancement in
medical research have shown that alternative treatments like herbs for
depression are effective and can minimize the harmful effects that such an
ailment can inflict on people. Herbs for depression can be taken in liquid
like tea or in dosages like pills with most of them being cheaper than the
traditional medications.
Below is a list of common herbs for depression that are available in the
market today:
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice is known as a powerful
antidepressant, though continuous ingestion of large amounts can cause
headache, lethargy, sodium and water retention, excessive potassium loss,
and high blood pressure.
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
The use of St. John's Wort to
treat depression has been around for a long time, even before scientific
studies have proven its effectiveness. The flowers of this herb have
infusions that can relieve feelings of sadness and melancholy. Also, St.
John's Wort has been shown to improve the quality of sleep of depressed
people. St. John's Wort is at times preferred over drug medications as it
has very little side effects and can be more potent in treating depression.
Gingko (Gingko biloba)
Another popular herbs for
depression, gingko can relieve depression especially for elders who suffer
from reduced blood flow to their brains. Clinical trials have found that
gingko improves cerebral circulation which, in turn, improves memory that
can combat depression.
Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Siberian ginseng has been proven
to balance some of the brain's important neurotransmitters like serotonin,
dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.
Balm
Balm belongs to the mint family, and is also known as melissa. The use of
this herb can stimulate the brain that can eventually get rid of lethargy.
Black hellebore
Also known as christmas rose, the black hellebore may be effective with
mania and melancholy. But when ingested in large amounts, it can be
poisonous.
Borage
An effective natural antidepressant, borage has a stimulating effect to the
glandular system which can alleviate sadness, pensiveness, and melancholy.
Damiana
The damiana can stimulate the nervous system that can result to improvement
of one's mood.
Fo-ti-tieng
Studied extensively in France, the fo-ti-tieng is very rejuvenating. It can
energize the brain, nerves, and endocrine glands.
Ginger
Like the St. John's Wort, ginger also has a long history of treating
depression and anxiety.
Kava kava
When taken in excessive amounts, the kava kava can cause drowsiness. But
when taken in moderation, these herbs for depression can ease mental anguish
and anxiety.
Oat straw
Because it is high in silica, the oat straw can strengthen the nervous
system.
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)
The purslane is rich in magnesium and potassium, which are two minerals that
have been proven to contain antidepressant effects.
Sage
Like the balm, the sage also belongs to the mint family and can calm jittery
nerves. Sage was also used during ancient times for cosmetic purposes.
Thyme
Also a mint family member, the thyme can be mixed with other foods and can
ward off feelings of melancholy.
Yohimbine
Also known to be used to treat male impotence as well as encourage male
sexual stimulant, the yohimbine can improve the overall effect of
antidepressants. However, some individuals may have heightened anxiety or
uncomfortable cardiac stimulation when using it.
IMPORTANT: Buy herbs for depression only from pharmaceutical GMP-compliant
manufacturers.
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