Natural Medicine and Herbal Remedies For Depression

Natural Medicine and Herbal Remedies For Depression

Dealing with depression can be a sensitive subject, with many people trying to hide their inner feelings. Winters and season changes are two most common triggers for depression, but many people do suffer from anxiety and depression throughout their life. There can be number of reasons for increasing depression, but the remedies and treatments are often same. If you’re looking for natural medicines or herbal remedies for depression, read on to explore your options for treating depression.

In this article, we’ll talk about some natural methods, herbs and supplements that will help you get rid of your anxiety disorders and depression. All the natural remedies mentioned below have been proven to deliver effective and lasting results. 

How To Treat Depression Naturally

Eat Serotonin-enhancing Food

Most of the OTC available antidepressants act by increasing the production of serotonin in the body. Since imbalance of serotonin levels often lead to depression, eating serotonin-enhancing diet will help you uplift your mood naturally. Serotonin-enhancing foods can include: fruits and vegetable rich in omega-3 fatty (wild salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines and anchovies). If you have been pregnant, have cracked lips, dry lips and/or aching joints, chances are that your body needs more Omega3.

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)

Without any doubt, 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) has been one of the most commonly used natural supplements for depression. It is an amino-acid that works as an intermediate step between serotonin and tryptophan. Many people have started using it as an effective alternative for expensive and risk-bearing traditional depression drugs. It is made from the extract of an African plant’s seed. It helps boost serotonin levels that regulate mood, calm anxiety and improve sleep. 

B Vitamins

There is a lot that can be said about B vitamins as an alternative for boosting moods. Including food items that provide your body with B vitamin complex i.e B1, B2, B6, B12 and so on can help you get over the depressing phase in an instant and keep your mind relaxed. Best sources of B-complex are green leafy vegetables, organs (liver and kidney) of grass-fed sources, and whole grain foods.

St. John’s Wort

One of the most preferred and commonly recommended herbs - St. John’s Wort is an ultimate natural solution for depression. This herb has a reputation of being one of the most effective treatments for anxiety and mood swings. It is a mild-sedative and acts by reducing pain, stress, anxiety and inflammation.

Stress Zapper/Buster Teas

There are number of herbal teas available that are prepared by using stress-busting herbs. When combined together with the goodness of tea, this natural remedy can help fight depression, as well as anxiety disorders as soon as you consume it. For anyone suffering with depression, cannot go wrong with a couple of cups a day of a stress buster tea. These teas contain traces of stress relieving herbs like St. John’s Wort, Siberian Ginseng and Ginkgo. All of them help by eliminating the feeling of fatigue, and boost mental alertness.

Other Useful Things to Keep in Mind

Apart from proper diet, supplements and herbs, there are other activities that you must perform when fighting with your depression. Naturopathic physicians recommend performing any one of the below given activities a day, to keep depression at bay.

● Quality sleep is important as it puts you body and mind at rest. After a hectic, stressful day, 7-8 hours of quality sleep can help you keep anxieties and stress at bay.

● Fresh air, sunshine and some refreshments is a good way to feel close to the nature. Spending at least 15-20 minutes outside everyday is a good way to maintain a healthy mind.

● Even moderate exercises or leisurely brisk walks can help increase circulation of feel good brain chemicals. Hence, improving the overall quality of your life.

● Caffeine and aerated drinks not only dehydrate your body, but can also make your mind feel more stressed and anxious at the same time. Try to limit your consumption of caffeine and aerated drinks. A couple of coffee cups a day should help you maintain a good balance.

These were some of the most effective natural medicines and herbal remedies for depression. If western medications and other alternative treatments doesn’t seem to work, consulting expert and experienced naturopathic physicians can prove to be your best choice. Natural medicine has been proven to treat depressions successfully and provide lasting relief to patients. You should also consider conducting an RBTI analyst to ensure that there are no underlying problems.