5 Herbs And Supplements That Fight Depression

People are gradually shifting their focus on natural remedies like herbs and supplements as a way to alleviate and fight some life-threatening diseases such as depression and anxiety.

In case you didn’t know, over 17 million adults experience depression in the united states.

Today, depression remains one of the most dangerous mental disorders to ever exist. The sad thing is many people who experience this life claiming ailment fail to seek help due to one reason or the other, some of which may be embarrassment or ignorance.

Identifying and treating depression through certain medical and professional means might serve a great purpose in bringing it to an end.

Luckily, one of those means of fighting depression is what you’ll be learning from this article – the use of herbs and supplements.

According to research, herbs, vitamins, and minerals have proven potent in treating and fighting depression over the past few years.

So, what are examples of these herbs and supplements?

Herbs

1. St. John's wort

This potent herb for depression is a derivative of the Hypericum perforatum plant. And despite not being approved by the Food and Development Agency (FDA) yet, this herbal drug has proven effective in treating mild depression when used with great caution.

How does it help deal with depression? It works by reducing the level of production of the stress hormone in the body known as cortisol. Consequently, improving a depressive mood.

2. Lavender

For centuries, lavender has been used as one of the most important herbs to treat depression symptoms.

Science has revealed that lavender oil contains over 100 constituents most of which perform the function of healing.

When taken orally, lavender oil has both soothing and healing effects that contribute greatly to anxiety and depression management.

3. Ginseng

Being an antibacterial, antifungal, and antidepressant, it’s no wonder how ginseng has demonstrated its efficacy for clinically diagnosed anxiety disorders such as depression over the past years,

Supplements

4. Omega-3 fatty acids

“In countries where fish consumption is high, the risk of depression is lower than it is in nations where people eat less fish”, says research.

These essential fatty acids gotten majorly from diets (cold-water fish, walnuts, and some other foods) are food supplements that can alleviate depression according to studies.

Omega 3 fatty acids consist of a high ratio of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) which studies have found capable of alleviating depression symptoms.

Nevertheless, more research needs to be carried out for further discoveries regarding its role in fighting depression.

5. Folic acid

Also known as folate, folic acid is another well-known supplement that fights against depression. Found in beans, bread cereals, fruits, and green leafy vegetables, folate helps the brain to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that greatly improves mood.

But just like Omega-3 fatty acids more research is needed to fully discover its role in depression and anxiety.

Finally, never forget that regardless of how strong you think you are, depression can creep up on just about anyone. So, take note and never be ashamed to ask for help when the situation calls for it.

You must however note that natural remedies aren’t supposed to replace medical diagnoses as some of these herbs and supplements may not be completely safe to use due to lack of accurate doses, especially with herbs.

Not only that, some of these herbs may endanger you due to their interference with certain prescribed medications. This is why great caution must be taken before settling for herbs and supplements as a means of treating depression and anxiety.