Herbal Supplements for Stress and Depression

Herbal Supplements for Stress and Depression

Every year, nearly 10% of Americans experience depression and many do not seek treatment. The first step to treating depression is visiting a physician because it is a very serious illness and can be a symptom of other conditions like thyroid problems. While self-medicating for depression is not recommended, some herbal supplements have been used widely in treating depression.

St. John's wort is one of the most popular herbs used in treating depression and its accompanying effects such as poor sleep. Clinical trials have shown that St. John's wort does work better than a placebo and can be as effective as conventional antidepressant drugs for mild to moderate depression. What's more, it tends to have fewer side effects. For major depression, however, it has not been found to be effective. This herb may take four to six weeks to have a noticeable effect, and it does increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it's important to protect eyes and skin when taking it. While St. John's wort is considered safe, it can interfere with drugs such as those used to treat HIV, contraceptives and some antidepressants. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Folic acid doesn't really fall into the category of natural herbal supplements, but it is found in many edible plants and herbs, including asparagus, beetroot, blue cohosh, catnip, dandelion, fenugreek, ginger, and red clover. Folic acid is often deficient in people with depression and is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies. Many chronic health conditions can deplete folic acid, and drugs such as birth control pills and aspirin can also lead to a deficiency. Folic acid can improve response to antidepressants too.

Magnesium deficiency is another common deficiency in people with depression. It can be gained through foods and herbs like aloe vera, black cohosh, blue cohosh, chamomile, comfrey, dandelion, garlic, ginger, peppermint, rosemary, shepherd's purse, and wintergreen.

Kava kava, a plant native to Polynesia, when taken in moderation, can improve the sense of well-being and relaxation. It can cause drowsiness, however, so it is important to take it as directed.

Natural herbal supplements have been used for literally hundreds of years in treating moods. While anyone with symptoms of depression should seek the help of a physician, they may be able to successfully incorporate the use of certain herbs into a program of treating depression, improving mood, and avoiding some of the side effects of some conventional antidepressant drugs.

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