Herbs for Depression

Posted by on September 3rd, 2007 at 07:24pm

In the United States alone, it is estimated that there are about 17 million Americans who are being diagnosed with clinical depression every year. Thus, there is a rising demand for different treatments and cures for the mental and emotional condition. Because people nowadays patronize alternative medicines more, there are known herbs for depression that are being relied on primarily for treatment of the condition. Patients who have tried out the herbs attest that there is nothing more effective in the treatment of the mood disorder.

There is still not much approved therapeutic claims for different herbs that are used to treat depression. However, many people are relying on such herbs more and more as time passes by. For them, no regulations and health approvals from regulators are needed to ensure and emphasize the usefulness of such herbal treatments. Here are several herbs that can be easily found in your backyard that would help in controlling and treating depression.

Ginseng – This herb is known scientifically as Panax ginseng and is a common herb extracted to make usual home beverages in Asian homes. Ginseng has been found to contain natural nutrients and chemicals to help the body effectively resist overall stress.

Damiana – Turnera diffusa has been found to help eliminate sexual dysfunction that is associated as outcomes of numerous antidepressants that are usually taken and administered to clinical depression patients.

Valerian – The root of Valerian (Valerian officinalis) is used and taken to help treat insomnia, which is usually occurring and is associated with clinical depression. The root is boiled and is turned into a beverage, just like ginseng.

St. John’s wort – This herb has been proven to take the same effects as the usual antidepressants that are prescribed for clinical depression patients. However, unlike medications sold commercially, St. John’s wort has fewer side effects. However, experts advise patients to first seek medical advice before taking St. John’s wort because the strong chemical reaction to take effect from the herb may have adverse chemical reactions when exposed and combined to other medications like oral contraceptives, loperamide and warfarin.

Other herbs for depression treatment include ginger, clove, oat straw, thyme and kava kava. Basil and licorice are also commonly taken as alternative medicines. Rosemary could also do the trick. If you aim to cure your depression the natural way, it would be better if you would consider taking and using such herbs first before finally trying out and taking medical prescriptions, which usually deliver side effects and are significantly more expensive.

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