Herbal Remedies For Depression

Depression is a serious matter so herbal remedies for depression should only be taken under your doctors supervision. There are many herbs that can help alleviate the symptoms of depression. In addition, eating a healthy diet can help you to be healthier and happier. Cutting out processed foods and eating lots of fruits and vegetables can help to give back some of your energy and elevate your mode.

Herbal Remedies For Depression

St Johns Wort
St Johns Wort is the most widely recognized herbal depression remedy. It contains the compound hypercin that has been shown in studies to lessen anxiety and depression. It can also help with insomnia which can add to depressed feelings. St Johns Wort can be taken in a tea or in pill form. It has few side effects but should be avoided if you are pregnant and taking the herb can increase sensitivity to the sun.

Licorice
The herb, not the candy (although the candy may contain some of the herb but probably not enough), is less publicized herbal remedies for depression but more powerful anti depressant then St Johns Wort. It tastes great so you can use it to add flavor to teas or other foods. It is safe for normal use but if you abuse it or take it for the long term you may experience headache, water retention and even high blood pressure).

Ginko Biloba
Ginko helps blood flow to the brain and may have a role in treating depression. Studies have shown that it can enhance mood.

Ginseng
Ginseng can elevate mood and improve your whole outlook. An ancient herb, this can be taken in an extract or pill.

Using Nutrition To Fight Depression

In addition to herbal remedies for depression, eating the right kinds of food can help improve your mood. Foods that contain magnesium and potassium like green vegetables, bananas, potato and lentils have been shown to have antidepressant properties. In addition, making sure you get enough B vitamins can help your nerves function and keep up your mood. I found that taking a B complex supplement helps to keep the blues away. Foods high in B vitamins include leafy greens, bananas and broccoli.

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