5 natural remedies for depression

5 natural remedies for depression

The experience of emotional and psychological depression has been noted and subjected to various explanations since the beginning of recorded history and most likely earlier. The current model, which reduces all depression to a lack of serotonin, seems as simplistic and inadequate as the previous ones. This means, at least in part, that depression is a complex and ancient disease with a long history of treatment. There are a number of herbs that have been used successfully to relieve symptoms of depression, and careful consideration of various causes of psychological unwellness can help bring about improvement.

Recent studies have reinforced the potential effectiveness of a number of traditional herbal remedies for depression.

Herbal remedies for depression

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

One of the most well-known herbs that is said to help with depression; St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) has been the subject of much debate in recent years. Although the data on St. John's wort is confusing to say the least, it is worth noting that it has been used long and extensively worldwide and that several independent studies reinforce its effectiveness. A 2009 meta-analysis by the Cochrane Collaboration found that "overall, the St. John's wort extracts tested in the studies were superior to placebo, had similar effectiveness to standard antidepressants, and had fewer side effects than standard antidepressants." ((link removed))

Another thoughtful and comprehensive meta-analysis published by four physicians in the British Journal of Psychiatry considered 37 previous studies and found that "Hypericum perforatum extracts improved symptoms more than placebo and similarly to standard antidepressants in adults with mild to moderate depression." In addition, Hypericum extracts caused fewer side effects than questionable antidepressants. ((link removed))

Our recommendation: (link removed)

Roseroot or Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

Less known, but also an interesting aid for depression, is the adaptogen Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea). In a very well designed and conducted study of Rhodiola rosea, 89 male and female subjects aged 18 to 70 years, selected according to DSM-IV criteria for depression, were divided into three groups. One group received 340 mg/day of rhodiola in two tablets, a second received 680 mg/day in two tablets, and a third received two placebo tablets. Both groups that received the Rhodiola showed significant improvements in depression, insomnia, emotional instability, and somatization as assessed on the Beck Depression Inventory and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD) questionnaire. The placebo group showed no such improvement. No serious side effects were reported in any of the three groups. ((link removed))

A 68-year-old female patient with recurrent moderate depression with somatic syndrome (ICD-10 F33.11) was reported who was self-medicating with ironwort while also taking paroxetine, among others. had developed vegetative syndromes, a feeling of restlessness and slight tremors. The following applies: Do not combine it with antidepressant medications. ((link removed))

Our recommendation: (link removed)

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)

This herb has been used extensively to relieve depression that occurs during menopause or other times of hormonal fluctuations. The recent debate about possible liver damage from long-term and excessive use is notable, but certainly not a reason to discount the potential benefits of this herb. Like all herbal remedies, responsible use requires responsible consideration of the entire cost-benefit picture.

Our recommendation: (link removed)

Saflor Bergscharte or Rhaponticum (Rhaponticum carthanmoides)

Another interesting alternative for mood disorders associated with menopause is Rhaponticum (Rhaponticum carthanmoides): In a study of 109 women published in the journal Menopause in 2007, over 80% of women who took Rhaponticum daily for twelve weeks reported a significant improvement in health and general well-being."

No product recommendation at this point, as most products are offered for use as anabolic steroids and are mixed with a lot of chemicals. No products found on the German market that are actually worth recommending. We are welcome to make suggestions. We then check the product.

Lavender and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Two lovely herbs to examine: lavender and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). A fascinating study from the Neuroscience Unit at the University of Northumbria in Newcastle found that a 600 mg serving of Melissa officinalis moderated the physiological effects of laboratory-induced stress in healthy individuals, suggesting that the herb has great potential for mitigating harmful effects of stress outside the laboratory. ((link removed))

Researchers in Korea studied the effects of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) aromatherapy on insomnia and depression in 42 college students and found that both conditions showed improvement. In another study suggesting that lavender may have stronger effects than previously speculated, Japanese scientists found that lavender "may have beneficial acute effects on the cardiovascular system." ((link removed))

Our recommendation: (link removed)

Other herbs commonly used by herbalists to reduce depressive symptoms include:

• Mimose (Albizzia julibrissin)
• Pulsatilla (Anemonenpulsatilla)
• Tigerlilie (Lilium lancifolium)
• Kaktus (Selenicereus grandiflorus)
• Schizandra (Schisandra chinensis)

And of course, if all else fails, don't forget these Body cleansing. A clean intestinal tract and liver can do wonders for depression.

Also an interesting article: (link removed)