The Little-Known Benefits Of Natural Remedies For Depression

Natural Remedies For Depression

Depression can be difficult to manage There are a number of effective methods. The use of medication to treat anxiety and depression can help reduce symptoms, and psychotherapy- or "talk therapy" -- is also an important element of treatment.

Certain herbal supplements could help. For instance, St. John's wort, an herb that's not FDA-approved to treat depression may improve symptoms in some people. It may interact with birth control pills, heart drugs and medications that stop rejection of organs following the transplant.

Saffron

Saffron is most famous for its ability to add color to foods but it's also an effective mood booster. It's made up of a variety of compounds, including Crocins and crocetins that contain antioxidants and radical scavenging capabilities, that help fight harmful free radicals that may cause chronic illnesses such as depression.

The research done on saffron and depression is mixed however, some of the results are promising. In one study, people with depression were randomized to either saffron or placebo for six weeks. They were then assessed using a depression in elderly treatment questionnaire as well as an anxiety questionnaire. The saffron-users had less depression and anxiety depression treatment than those who did not.

However, other trials have not been able to prove the same effect. In fact, the 2019 review article cited above mentions that a majority of the studies that showed benefits used small samples and brief follow-ups and the majority were done in Iran, where the researchers have financial ties with manufacturers of saffron. This raises suspicions that the Iranian researchers could be exaggerating the benefits of saffron for depression.

It is possible that saffron can have antidepressant effects because it acts on the brain to increase serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that can improve mood and encourage relaxation. It's thought that saffron works by blocking synaptic serotonin's Reuptake, which helps keep more of the chemical in the brain.

In a separate study women with premenstrual symptoms received either saffron or an active control for two months. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Premenstrual Daily Symptoms questionnaire were used to evaluate the women. The saffron supplement significantly improved PMS symptoms, and those who took it were better at coping with stress.

There's a lot of interest in saffron for depression, but we have to see more extensive, long-term clinical trials before it can be recommended as an option to treat. Likewise, it's important to talk to your doctor before taking any dietary supplements for depression, especially those that aren't endorsed by the FDA. They may interact with certain medications or cause serious adverse side 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. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression and anxiety, fibromyalgia and sleep disorders, among other health problems. Research has proven that 5-HTP supplements can boost serotonin levels and improve mood in certain people. However further research is required to determine how effective this supplement is for treating depression.

Tryptophan is found in bananas, milk cheese, yogurt and other dairy products. It is also available as a dietary supplement available over-the-counter. The body converts tryptophan to serotonin which stimulates brain chemical changes that promote mood stability and regulate appetite and sleep patterns.

A number of studies have proven that taking 5-HTP to treat depression can be as effective as some antidepressant drugs. However, some of these studies are flawed due to small sample sizes and shorter durations. In addition, a few of the studies have used SSRI medications, which can hinder the effectiveness of 5-HTP.

5-HTP may be beneficial for a range of health conditions, including chronic headaches, fibromyalgia and weight loss. It has been demonstrated to improve sleep habits and reduce fatigue in fibromyalgia patients. It also appears to have a calming effect and may reduce anxiety in certain people. Studies have shown that 5-HTP may increase levels of gamma aminobutyric (GABA), neurotransmitter that can help reduce anxiety.

Some studies suggest that 5-HTP may aid in treating other ailments which are related to low serotonin levels, like tension headaches and migraines. It has also been shown to boost melatonin production which is crucial for a healthy sleep pattern. A few studies suggest that 100 mg of 5-HTP per day can help ease fibromyalgia stiffness, pain and mood.

People who are considering taking 5-HTP must discuss it with a doctor first. This is particularly crucial for those taking SSRI or MAOI medications because 5-HTP can interact with these medications and cause dangerous adverse effects. Some people may be prone to nausea when taking high doses of 5HTP.

Kava

Kava is a traditional medicinal herb from the Pacific Islands. It has been extensively used as a drink for ceremonies and as a medicinal. It works like alcohol in calming mind and relaxing muscles, however it doesn't cause the adverse effects associated with many pharmaceutical drugs. The plant's active component, kavalactone, alters the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway in the brain to produce anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Studies have shown it is a viable option for treating general anxiety disorder (GAD) as well as stress and without the "hangover" effect of some traditional sedatives.

It has been demonstrated to provide numerous health benefits. These include boosting dopamine levels and easing the symptoms of chronic pain or fibromyalgia. It also lowers stress hormones, decreases blood pressure and boosts the immune system. Kava is available in tablet, capsule or tincture form. Kava can be added to drinks and teas. It is recommended to talk with your doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA as such, and are not subject to the same rigorous clinical tests that are required for prescription drugs. This leaves consumers exposed to a range of risks, like liver damage.

People with pre-existing liver, lung or heart ailments should avoid the consumption of kava. It can aggravate those conditions. People who have pre-existing mental health problems should be wary of kava as it may cause dilated pupils, eyes that are red, and decreased muscle control (ataxia). Kava can be harmful when it is combined with other psychoactive substances such as alcohol or prescription drugs. Kava should be avoided by pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.

Kava is naturally occurring substance. While there is no evidence that it's addictive but the risk of causing liver damage cannot be eliminated. Anyone who is concerned about liver damage must speak to their doctor before starting the kava program. More research is needed to discover the causes that can make kava unsafe but it's generally safe for most patients under medical supervision.

St. John's wort

St. John's Wort (Hypericum Perforatum) can help with mild to moderate depression. Some research shows that it may improve your mood by affecting how your body utilizes certain chemicals, like serotonin. It also seems to work well with a type of antidepressant known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. These are the most common drugs used to treat seasonal depression treatment. It may not work as well on those suffering from severe depression, however. St. John's wort can be dangerous when combined with certain medications It is therefore recommended to consult a doctor first.

In a 12-week clinical study, St. John's Wort was equally effective as standard antidepressants in reducing the symptoms of minor depression. In another study, a combination of St. John's wort and citalopram, an SSRI, was equally effective as a placebo for treating depression. This research was funded through the National Institute of Mental Health.

There's not as much research on long-term use of St. John's wort, but some studies suggest it has benefits when taken for a period of time, such as a few weeks or months. You can get it dried in tablets or capsules, or in tea. It is possible to feel the effects in 3 to 6 weeks. St. John's Wort can interact with many medications such as birth control pills and antibiotics. It can also affect how your body metabolizes certain drugs, such as sedatives and narcotics, which can lead to potentially serious adverse effects when they're combined.

You shouldn't attempt to treat depression by yourself. Instead, you should consult with a medical professional. If you are considering using natural remedies to treat depression you should talk to a naturopath. They can assist you to make an informed decision. They can also suggest alternative approaches to healthcare that don't require prescription medications. If necessary, they can refer you to an expert. You can locate a naturopath or integrative healthcare provider in the Mayo Clinic directory.