Depression is a mood disorder that impacts millions of adults around the world. Many suffering from depression barely seek treatment for various reasons. Some people, however, prefer herbal remedies to medication prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of the disorder.
Although depression can be assuaged by medications and therapies, some alternative treatments — such as herbs and supplements — also play a key role in fighting the disorder.
In this blog, we will discuss the common herbs and supplements that may significantly help fight depression.
Herbs and supplements
The use of alternative treatments continues to gain traction, as people look for more natural means of managing their health.
Nevertheless, contrary to the general perception, herbal medicines are not always safe or effective, so it’s important to know which products to choose in a bid to save your time and money.
Per research, some supplements are indeed effective in treating mild-to-moderate depression. Here are some of the supplements that are widely used by people afflicted with the disorder:
St. John’s wort
St. John’s wort is a plant that has been a common herbal mental health treatment for a number of centuries. Nevertheless, it’s important to exercise caution if one chooses to try it as a potential treatment for depression.
A 2016 study revealed that St. John’s wort was more effective than a placebo for treating minor depression and worked nearly as well as antidepressant medications.
Ginseng
This herb comes from the twisted root of the American or Asian ginseng plant. Experts of Chinese medicine have used ginseng for a number of years to help people improve mental clarity and energy and decrease the effects of stress.
Some people link these properties of ginseng with possible solutions for the low vigor and impetus that can happen with depression. Nevertheless, medical experts advise that none of the many studies that people have conducted on ginseng have been of adequate quality to form health recommendations.
Saffron
Saffron is considered to be a safe and effective way to control the symptoms of depression. Nevertheless, more research is needed to establish the possible benefits of saffron for people with depression. Scientists also need to comprehend any possible side effects in more detail.
Chamomile
Chamomile, which comes from the Matricaria recutita plant, helps manage depression and anxiety. A study conducted in 2012 showed that chamomile produced more substantial respite from depressive symptoms than a placebo. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to confirm the health benefits of chamomile in treating depressive symptoms.
Lavender
Lavender oil is a popular essential oil, and is typically used for relaxation and decreasing anxiety and mood disorders.
A 2013 study suggested that lavender might have huge potential in reducing anxiety and improving sleep. The herb has mixed results in studies that evaluate its effect on anxiety. Nevertheless, its effectiveness as a treatment for ongoing depression has little high-quality evidence in support at the moment.
Omega-3 fatty acids
In a 2015 study, researchers found that omega-3 fatty acid supplements are not beneficial across the board for treating depression. While no adverse effects from the supplement were reported, experts advised that the supplements would be quite effective in treatment for depression that was due to omega-3 deficiency.
Allopathic medications may also help
If you have been taking herbs and supplements for quite some time and have not noticed any positive results, then some allopathic medications may also help treat symptoms of depression. Some well-known medications to treat the disorder include Paraxyl CR, Mirtazep, Brintellix, Prozac, Depex, Depricap, and Faverin.