Posted on April 8, 2008 in Common Ailments
Depression has become one of the most common psychological problems faced by people around the world. According to the statistics report approximately 20-13% of American adults show some or the other depression symptoms. Have you ever thought that various natural remedies for depression could be as effective as general medicine?
Many people think that anti-depressants are the best way to cure depression. But continuous use of anti-depressants makes you addicted to these drugs or you face major side effects. Depression can be treated with the help of various natural alternative methods. Various research studies shows that some of the natural remedies are highly beneficial in treating depression symptoms.
Listed below are few effective natural remedies for depression and anxiety:
- St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) Herb: This herb is effective in treating mild to moderate depression, sleep disorders and anxiety symptoms. Phytochemicals like Hypericin and Pseudohypericin has anti-depressant and anti-viral properties. The extract of this herb is available in the form of liquid extract, oil, capsules and tablets. This herb is effective for treating depression but might show some side effect like upset stomach, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, restlessness and allergic reaction. Hence it is advisable for you to use this drug under the medical supervision.
- Vitamin supplements especially B12: Some of the research studies show that Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to depression. Hence increasing the dietary intake of Vitamin B12 you can alleviate some symptoms of depression. Vitamin supplement alone is not sufficient for curing depression but in addition to other natural remedies for depression and anxiety, it would be effective. Dietary sources of Vitamin B12 are chicken, liver, meat, fish, eggs, milk, cheese and yogurt. You can even take Vitamin B12 supplements available in medical stores.
- Omega 3 Fatty Acid: Although alone omega 3 fatty acid is not capable of curing depression symptoms but works effectively in combination with other natural remedies. The best source of omega 3 fatty acid is fresh fish especially sardines and salmon. You can also take omega 3 fatty acid supplement in the form of capsules or oil.
- 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan (5-HTP): This natural anti-depressant is extracted from the seeds of Griffonia Simplicifolia. This phytochemical act as a precursor of Serotonin neurotransmitter. Consumption of 5-HTP enhances the Serotonin levels. 5-HTP is available in the form of capsules and as compared to other anti-depressant treatments number of side effects is less. Probable side effects observed are constipation, nausea, gas, heartburn, reduced sexual desire and drowsiness. Hence it is better to consume 5-HTP after consulting your physician.
Other Alternate Therapies for Curing Depression:
Some other natural remedies for depression anxiety effective in curing the condition are listed below:
- Remedy for depression through Acupuncture: This Chinese ancient remedy treat illness by puncturing tiny needles in specific body points. It mainly alleviates various symptoms associated with depression like fatigue, insomnia, anxiety and changes in appetite.
- Meditation: Various researches have proved that meditation is highly effective in treating stress, anxiety and depression. Mediation helps in improving your mood by making your mind calm and peaceful. Meditation is helpful in letting go your negative thoughts which are generally associated with depression.
- Depression Remedies from Exercise: Depression is generally associated with low energy levels. Regular exercising is beneficial in maintaining energy level as well as up beat your mood. Research study shows that mild to moderate depression can be cured by regular exercise.
- Light Therapy: People suffering from depression are exposed to bright light like florescent light. Exposure to bright light is supposed to regulate body clock as well as specific chemical changes. Light therapy brings chemical change in brain and release chemicals like Serotonin and Melatonin which regulates sleeping patterns.
Before following any natural alternative therapy it is advisable to consult your physician.
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