Monday, December 3, 2007

Herbal Remedies for Depression

An herbal strategy for relieving depression focuses not only on easing the depression, but also includes herbs that help to restore balance to the endocrine and. nervous systems. Because depression is often accompanied by lack of energy and insomnia, it is helpful to take energizing herbs such as ginseng in the morning and herbs that encourage restful sleep such as passionflower and skullcap at night The following are the most helpful herbs for treating depression:

Herbal Remedies for Depression with St. John's Wort:
St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) has become extremely popular in the past few years for easing depression. It has been use for centuries to treat depression and has been proven to be as effective as pharmaceutical antidepressants but without the negative side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and nausea. St. John's wort also helps to relieve insomnia, which often accompanies depression. For the most consistent results, take an extract of St. John's wort standardized to contain 0.3 percent hypericin, which is recognized as the active ingredient. Take 300 milligrams three times per day. It usually takes one or two months of regular use to produce the desired mood-elevating effect, but the same is true for prescription antidepressants. If you are currently taking antidepressant medication, consult with your doctor before taking St. John's wort because the herb may intensify the effects of the drug. Work with your doctor to gradually make the transition to St. John's wort by gradually tapering off your antidepressant medication. Avoid intense sun exposure while taking St. John's wort, because although it is unlikely, the herb may cause skin photosensitivity.

Herbal Remedies for Depression using Siberian Ginseng:
Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) strengthens the nervous and endocrine systems and restores healthy adrenal function. The adrenal glands playa critical role in the body's ability to adapt to physical and emotional stressors. Emotional and physical stress is a primary cause of adrenal fatigue, and weak adrenal function is clearly associated with depression. Take a standardized extract of Siberian ginseng, approximately 250 milligrams twice daily. Take Siberian ginseng consistently for two months, with a two-week break before resuming the dosage. Avoid taking near bedtime, because ginseng can be stimulating.

Herbal Remedies for Depression with Ginkgo:
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is best known for improving memory, but it can also improve mood because depression in people over 50 can be caused by decreased blood flow to the brain. Older people are also more susceptible to depression because the number of serotonin receptor sites on brain cells decreases with age. Ginkgo increases blood flow to the brain by dilating the arteries and improving circulation, and preliminary studies show that it increases the number of serotonin receptor sites. Take 120 to 240 milligrams daily of an extract standardized for 24 percent ginkgo flavone glycosides.

Mood-Elevating Herbal Formula for Depression:
1 ounce St.john's wort extract
1 ounce Siberian ginseng extract
1/4 ounce licorice root extract
1/4 ounce ginger root extract

Combine the herbal extracts and store in a dark-glass bottle. Take 1/2 teaspoon times a day in a small amount of warm water.

Mood Uplifting Aromatherapy Massage Oil for Depression:
3 ounces almond oil
1 ounce jojoba oil
20 drops lavender essential oil
10 drops rose essential oil
10 drops bergamot essential oil

Combine almond and jojoba oils with essential oils in a dark bottle. Store in a cool. dark place, and shake well before using.

Aromatherapy Baths to Relieve Depression:
Choose one of the following combinations of essential oils and add to a bathtub of warm water. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. If you are feeling tense, add 2 cups of Epsom salts to the bath, which are rich in magnesium, a tension-relieving mineral.

Rose-Bergamot Bath: 5 drops rose, 5 drops bergamot
Sandalwood -Lavender Bath: 10 drops lavender, 5 drops sandalwood
Lavender -Bergamot Bath: 10 drops lavender, 5 drops bergamot


Natural Cures for Depression with Apple:
Apple is one of the most valuable remedies for mental depression. The various chemical substances present in this fruit such as vitamin B, phosphorus, and potassium help the synthesis of glutamic acid, which controls the wear and tear of nerve cells. The fruit should be taken with milk and honey. This remedy will act as a very effective nerve tonic and recharge the nerves with new energy and life.

Natural Cures for Depression using Cashew Nut:
The cashew nut is another valuable remedy for general depression and nervous weakness. It is rich in vitamins of die B group, especially thiamine, and is therefore useful in stimulating the appetite and the nervous system. It is also rich in riboflavin which keeps the body active, cheerful, and energetic.

Natural Cures for Depression with Rose:
An infusion of rose petals should be prepared by mixing 15 gm of rose petals in 250 ml of boiling water. If drunk occasionally, instead of the usual tea and coffee, it is beneficial for treating this condition.

Asparagus for Depression:
The root of asparagus has been found beneficial in the treatment of depression. It is highly nutritious and is used as a herbal medicine for mental disorders. It is a good tonic for the brain and nerves. One or two grams of the powder of the dry root of the plant can be taken once daily.

Natural Cures for Depression using Cardamom:
The use of cardamom has proved valuable in depression. Powdered seeds should be boiled in water and tea prepared in the usual way. A very pleasing aroma is added to the tea, which can be used as a medicine in the treatment of this condition.

Vitamin B and Depression:
Diet has a profound effect on the mental health of a person. Even a single nutritional deficiency can cause depression in susceptible people. Nutritional therapy builds up brain chemicals, such as serotonin and nor epinephrine, that affect the mood and are often lacking in depressed people. Eating foods rich in vitamin B, such as whole grains, green vegetables, eggs, and fish helps restore vitality and cheer in an individual.