Natural Remedies For Depression
Depression is a challenging condition to treat. However there are a variety of effective treatments. Treatments can ease symptoms, and psychotherapy- or "talk therapy" -- is also an important component of treatment.
Some herbal supplements may also aid. St. John's Wort, an herb that is not FDA-approved to treat depression, can improve symptoms in some people. However, it can interfere with heart medication as well as birth control pills and medications that prevent rejection of organs after a transplant.
Saffron
Saffron is most well-known for its role in bringing colour to food items, but it's also an excellent mood enhancer. It is a rich source of compounds, including crocetin and crocins, that have antioxidant and radical-scavenging properties which help protect against harmful free radicals. These may contribute to chronic diseases, such as depression.
Some of the research regarding the effects of saffron on depression are mixed. In one study, patients who suffered from depression were randomly assigned to either saffron or placebo for six weeks. They were then assessed using a depression questionnaire as well as an anxiety test. The people who took saffron had less anxiety and depression than those who did not.
However, other studies have not found the same effect. The article from the year 2019 mentioned above reveals that the majority of studies that have shown positive results utilized small samples, short-term follow-ups and were conducted in Iran where the researchers had financial relationships with saffron producers. This raises questions about Iranian researchers' claims that saffron is beneficial to depression.
It's possible saffron can have antidepressant properties because it increases serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that can improve mood and encourage relaxation. It is believed that saffron hinders synaptic serotonin absorption which helps to keep the chemical in the body.
In a different study, women who had premenstrual symptoms received either saffron or an inactive control for two months. They were then assessed using a Premenstrual Daily Symptoms (PDS) questionnaire and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. The saffron supplement significantly improved PMS symptoms, and those who took it were more at coping with stress.
There's lots of interest in saffron's effects on depression, but we have to conduct larger, more long-term clinical studies before it is recommended as an option for treatment. It's also important to consult with your doctor prior to taking any dietary supplements for depression, especially those that aren't endorsed by the FDA. They may interact with certain 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 that are low have been linked to depression, anxiety and sleep disorders, fibromyalgia and a range of other health issues. Research has shown that 5-HTP supplements can raise serotonin levels and improve mood for some people. However it is still necessary to conduct more research to determine how effective this supplement is in treating depression.
Tryptophan is found in milk, bananas cheese, yogurt and bananas. It is also available as an over-the-counter dietary supplement. The body converts tryptophan to serotonin. This stimulates brain chemicals that help control appetite, mood and sleep patterns.
In several studies it has been proven that 5-HTP is as effective as antidepressant medication in treating depression. Some of these studies are flawed, for instance the small sample size and short duration. In addition, a few of the studies have used SSRI medications, which may hinder the effectiveness of 5-HTP.
5-HTP can be beneficial for a variety of health conditions, such as fibromyalgia, chronic headaches and weight loss. It has been demonstrated that it improves sleeping habits and reduces fatigue among patients with fibromyalgia. It also seems to have a relaxing effect and can decrease anxiety in some people. Research has also indicated that 5-HTP can increase the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, a neurotransmitter that can reduce anxiety and increase feelings of peace.
Certain studies suggest that 5-HTP could help treat other conditions that are a result of low serotonin levels, like migraines and tension headaches. It has also been shown to boost melatonin production, which is important for healthy sleep patterns. Additionally, research suggests that consuming 100 mg of 5-HTP daily may relieve fibromyalgia pain, stiffness and mood.
Before taking 5-HTP, people should consult with their physician. This is important for people who are taking MAOIs or SSRIs, as 5-HTP may interact with these medications and cause dangerous adverse effects. Some people may also experience nausea when taking high doses of 5HTP.
Kava
Kava, from the Pacific Islands, has been used as a medicinal herb and ceremonial drink for many centuries. It acts like alcohol to calm the mind and relax muscles however, it does not have the adverse effects of a lot of pharmaceutical drugs. The plant's active ingredient, kavalactone, alters the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway in the brain to produce anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Research has shown that it can be used to treat general anxiety disorder (GAD) and stress, without producing the "hangover effect" of some sedatives.
It has been shown to have numerous other health benefits. It is believed to boost dopamine levels and easing the symptoms of chronic pain or fibromyalgia. innovative depression treatment www.iampsychiatry.com reduces blood pressure, reduces stress hormones, and improves the immune system. Kava is available in tablet, capsule or tincture forms. Kava can be incorporated into drinks like tea and other beverages. It is recommended to consult with your doctor before attempting any herbal supplements. Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so they are not subject to the same rigorous clinical tests that are required for prescription drugs. This could expose consumers to a range of risks, including liver damage.
People who have pre-existing heart, lung or liver conditions should avoid the consumption of kava. It can worsen these conditions. Kava should be avoided by people with mental health issues, as it can lead to dilated pupils eyeballs, reddened eyes and decreased muscle control. Kava can be dangerous when used in conjunction with other psychoactive substances, like alcohol or prescription drugs. Kava should be avoided by breastfeeding mothers.
Kava is an organic substance that occurs naturally. While there is no evidence to suggest that it is addictive however the risk of injury to the liver isn't completely eliminated. Before starting a kava regime people who are concerned about liver damage should consult with their physician. There is a need for more studies to determine the risk factors that make kava unsafe 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 a natural remedy that can help people suffering from mild to moderate depression. A few studies have shown that it can boost your mood by affecting how your body utilizes certain chemicals, including serotonin. It also seems to work with a specific type of antidepressant known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. These are the most commonly used drugs used to treat depression. It may not work as well on those suffering from severe depression, however. It's crucial to speak with a doctor before taking St. John's Wort, since it can interact with certain medications in dangerous ways.
In a 12-week study, St. John's wort was as effective as a standard antidepressant for reducing symptoms of minor depression. In another study the combination of St. John's herb and citalopram, a SSRI, was equally effective as a placebo for treating depression. The research was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health.
There's less research on 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 dried in tablets, capsules or tea. It could take anywhere from 3 to six weeks before you begin to feel the effects. It's crucial to inform your doctor or naturopath what other medication you're taking before making the decision to try it, since St. John's wort can interfere with many medicines, including some antibiotics and birth control pills. It can also alter the way your body processes certain drugs, such as opioids and sedatives. This can cause severe side effects when they are combined.
You should not try to treat depression by yourself. Instead, you should consult with a medical professional. If you're thinking about using natural treatments for depression, you should consult a naturopath or integrative medicine specialist who can help you make an informed decision. They can also recommend alternative approaches to healthcare that don't require prescription medications. If needed, they may refer you to specialists. You will find a naturopath as well as an integrative healthcare provider in the Mayo Clinic directory.