Natural Remedies For Depression
Depression is a difficult condition to treat However, there are a variety of effective methods. Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy" is a crucial component of treatment. Drugs are effective in reducing symptoms.
Certain herbal supplements can help. For example, St. John's wort is an herb that's not FDA-approved for treating depression, may 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 following the transplant.
Saffron
Saffron is best known for its role in adding color to foods however, it also acts as an excellent mood enhancer. It's a source of a variety of compounds, such crocetin, and crocins which have antioxidant properties and are capable of scavenging radicals, helping to protect against harmful free radicals. These can cause chronic illnesses, such as depression.
The research that's been done on saffron and depression has been mixed however, some of it seems promising. In one study, adults suffering from depression were randomly assigned to undergo a six-week saffron treatment or placebo. Then, they were analyzed with a depression and anxiety questionnaire. The saffron-users were less depressed and anxious than those who did not.
Other studies have not yielded the same results. In fact, the 2019 review article mentioned above points out that many of the studies that found benefits were conducted with small samples and a short-lived follow-up and a majority were done in Iran which is where the researchers have financial ties to the saffron producers. This raises the possibility that Iranian researchers may be overstating the benefits of saffron to treat depression.
It's possible that saffron may have antidepressant properties due to its ability to increase serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that can improve mood and encourage relaxation. It is believed that saffron functions by blocking synaptic serotonin's reuptake, which keeps more of the chemical in the brain.
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 with a Premenstrual Daily Symptoms (PDS) questionnaire and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. The saffron supplement greatly improved PMS symptoms, and those who took it were more at coping with stress.
Saffron is a well-known treatment for depression. However, we need more extensive, long-term studies before it becomes a recommended treatment. It's also important to consult with your doctor before taking any dietary supplements for depression, particularly those that aren't approved by the FDA. They could cause serious side effects or interact with certain medications.
5-HTP
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is an amino acid that the body converts into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that sends signals between nerve cells. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression and anxiety as well as sleep disorders and fibromyalgia and other health issues. Research has proven that 5-HTP supplements may increase serotonin levels and improve mood in some people. More research is needed to determine the effectiveness of this supplement in treating depression.
The amino acid tryptophan is found in milk, turkey yogurt, cheese, and bananas. It is also offered as a supplement to dietary intake over-the-counter. The body converts tryptophan into serotonin which stimulates brain chemical changes that promote mood stability and regulate the appetite and sleep patterns.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that taking 5-HTP to treat depression can be as effective as antidepressant drugs. Some of these studies are flawed, such as the small sample size and short duration. Some of the studies employed SSRIs, which could interfere with 5-HTP's effectiveness.
5-HTP can be beneficial for a variety of ailments, such as chronic headaches and fibromyalgia. It can also assist in weight loss. It has been demonstrated to improve sleep patterns and reduce fatigue in people suffering from fibromyalgia. It also has an calming effect and decrease anxiety in some people. Studies have reported that 5-HTP may increase levels of gamma aminobutyric (GABA) which is an important neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety.
Some studies suggest that 5-HTP can help treat other conditions that are associated with low serotonin levels, like tension headaches and migraines. It has also been shown to increase the production of melatonin, which is important for healthy sleep patterns. In addition, some research suggests that consuming 100 mg of 5-HTP every day may relieve fibromyalgia pain, stiffness and mood.
Before taking 5-HTP, individuals should consult their doctor. This is particularly crucial for those taking SSRI or MAOI medicines because 5-HTP may interact with these medications and cause dangerous side effects. Additionally that high doses of 5-HTP can cause nausea in some people.
Kava
Kava, from the Pacific Islands, has been used as a medicinal herb and ceremonial drink for hundreds of years. It acts similar to alcohol in calming the mind and relaxing muscles, but it doesn't have the side negative effects of many pharmaceutical drugs. The plant's active compound, kavalactone, alters the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway in the brain to produce anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Research has shown that it is effective to treat general anxiety disorder (GAD) and stress, without creating the "hangover effect" of sedatives that are commonly used.
It has also been proven to have a range of other health benefits, like boosting dopamine levels and alleviating symptoms of chronic pain and fibromyalgia. It also reduces blood pressure, reduces stress hormones and boosts the immune system. Kava is available in capsule, tablet or tincture forms. Kava can also be added in teas or other drinks. It is recommended to consult your physician before trying any herbal supplements. The FDA does not regulate supplements for dietary use which means they don't have to undergo the same rigorous clinical testing as prescription drugs. This puts the consumers exposed to various health risks such as liver damage.
Kava should not be used by those suffering from heart, lung or liver issues. It could aggravate these conditions. Kava should be avoided by people with mental health problems, since it can cause dilated pupillary eyeballs, reddened eyes, and diminished muscle control. When combined with other psychoactive drugs such as prescription medication or alcohol, kava could be a risk. Kava is also not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing mothers.
Kava is a naturally occurring substance. While there is no evidence that it's addictive however the risk of causing liver damage cannot be eliminated. Anyone who is concerned about liver damage should talk to their doctor before starting the kava program. More research is needed to identify the factors that make kava risky but it's generally safe for most 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. Some research suggests that it can boost mood by changing the way that your body utilizes chemicals like serotonin. modern approaches to depression treatment I Am Psychiatry seems to work well with a type of antidepressant known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. These are the most common medications used to treat depression. It might not be effective for people with severe depression, however. It's crucial to speak with a doctor before taking St. John's wort, as it may interact with other medications in dangerous ways.
In one 12-week clinical trial, St. John's wort was equally effective as a standard antidepressant in decreasing symptoms of mild depression. In another study, a combination St. John's Wort with citalopram (an SSRI) was as effective in treating depression as an placebo. This research was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
There's less research on long-term use of St. John's wort, however, some studies suggest it may have benefits when taken for several weeks or months. You can get it in dry form, either in capsules or tablets, or in tea. The effects may be felt in 3 to 6 weeks. It's crucial to inform your doctor or naturopath about any other medication you're taking before trying it, because St. John's wort can interfere with a variety of medications, including some antibiotics and birth control pills. It may also alter the way your body metabolizes some drugs, including sedatives and opioids, which could lead to serious side effects when combined.
Depression is a serious disease and you shouldn't attempt to treat it on your own without consulting a doctor. If you are considering using natural remedies to treat depression, it is recommended to consult a Naturopath. They can assist you to make an informed decision. They can also recommend other complementary healthcare approaches that don't require prescription drugs. If needed, they may refer you to a specialist. You can find a naturopath or integrative healthcare provider in the Mayo Clinic directory.