Herbs for Depression - St John's Wort, Kava Kava, and more

Many individuals experiment with Herbs For Depression either before or after turning to prescribed medication. There are a number of herbal remedies available which have proven to be amazingly effective in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. Undoubtedly the most effective herb to be used in the treatment of depression is St John's Wort.

Named after John the Baptist, St John's Wort is often referred to as the natural Prozac. German doctors in particular are quick to sing the praises of this powerful herb when it comes to the treatment of anxiety and depression.

Studies show that the active ingredient in the herb, known as Hypericum, is able to alter the levels of chemicals or neurotransmitters in the brain. When taken in correct doses, the herb is thought to ease symptoms of depression in as little as three weeks.

It is believed that Hypericum inhibits the re uptake of a specific neurotransmitter in the brain known as serotonin. Due to the fact that deficiencies of this neurotransmitter have been strongly linked to mood disorders such depression and schizophrenia, it stands to reason that an ingredient which increases serotonin levels would naturally ease the symptoms of depression. In addition, St John's Wort is also thought to inhibit the production of a chemical known as monoamine oxidase which is thought to be partly responsible for the onset of depression.

St John's Wort is available in oil, tincture, and capsule form. In addition, the flowers of the St John's Wort plant can be boiled to make a tea which has the same effect as other forms of the herb. Researchers are divided in their opinion as to what the most effective dose of the herb is for the treatment of depression. Anything from 200g to 900g per day is thought to be effective in the easing of depressive symptoms.

The only disadvantage to St John's Wort is that it may cause gastro internal disturbances and increased photo sensitivity. In addition, it cannot be consumed in conjunction with certain medications and should under no circumstances be used as a substitute for prescribed antidepressants in the treatment of severe depressive disorders.

Other herbs for depression include Kava Kava which is extremely effective in the treatment of somatic complaints and nervousness, ginger, gingko biloba, licorice, Siberian ginseng, basil, thyme, rosemary, lemon balm and valerian. In addition, Chinese tinctures and herbs such as Ding quai and Bupleurum are also known for their effectiveness in the treatment of depressive symptoms.

As is the case with all alternative remedies, it should be stressed that herbs should not be seen as a substitute for anti depressant medication and professional treatment. It is always advisable to visit your medical practitioner before embarking on any form of treatment programme whatsoever and herbal treatments are in no way an exception to this rule.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Herbs for Depression

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