Natural Remedies For
depression treatment cbtDepression is a challenging illness to treat. However there are a variety of effective treatments. Medications can reduce symptoms, and psychotherapy- or "talk therapy" -- is also an important component of
treatment resistant bipolar depression.
Some herbal supplements can also aid. For example, St. John's wort, an herb that's not FDA-approved for treating depression, may improve symptoms in some people. It can interact with birth control pills, heart drugs and drugs that can prevent rejection of organs following the transplant.
Saffron
Saffron's primary function is to add color to food, but it also acts as a mood booster. It's made up of a variety of compounds, like Crocins and crocetins that contain antioxidants and radical scavenging properties, that help fight harmful free radicals which could cause chronic illnesses, including depression.
The research conducted on saffron and depression has been mixed however, some of it is promising. In one study, individuals who were suffering from depression were randomly assigned to take saffron for six weeks or a placebo. After that, they were assessed by using a depression and anxiety questionnaire. Those who took saffron had less anxiety and depression than those who did not.
Other trials have not found the similar results. The article from 2019 mentioned above highlights the fact that many studies that found positive results were conducted using small samples, short-term follow-ups and were conducted in Iran where the researchers had financial relationships with saffron producers. This raises doubts about Iranian researchers' claims that saffron is beneficial to depression.
It's possible that saffron may have antidepressant properties since it boosts serotonin in the brain. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, helps to improve mood and promote relaxation. It is believed that saffron inhibits serotonin synaptic uptake which helps to keep the chemical in the body.
In a different study, women who were suffering from premenstrual symptoms were given either saffron extract or an inactive placebo for two months. They were then assessed with a Premenstrual Daily Symptoms (PDS) questionnaire and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. People who took the extract of saffron experienced significant improvement in their PMS symptoms and were better in coping with stress than those who used the placebo.
There's lots of interest in saffron for depression, but we have to conduct larger, more long-term clinical trials before it can be considered an option for
non pharmacological treatment for depression. Also, it's essential to consult with your doctor before taking any supplements to your diet for depression, especially those that aren't endorsed by the FDA. They can interact with other medications or cause serious adverse effects.
5-HTP
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is an amino acid that the body converts into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that sends signals between nerve cells. Serotonin levels are low and associated with anxiety and depression as well as sleep disorders and fibromyalgia as well as other health issues. Studies have shown that 5-HTP supplements to improve mood and increase serotonin in certain people. More research is required to determine the effectiveness of this supplement in treating depression.
Tryptophan can be found in bananas, milk, cheese and yogurt. It is also offered as a dietary supplement available over-the-counter. The body converts tryptophan to serotonin. This stimulates brain chemicals that regulate mood, appetite and sleep patterns.
In a variety of studies, it has been shown that 5-HTP can be just as effective as antidepressant medications in treating depression. Some of these studies are flawed, including the small sample size and short duration. Some of the studies employed SSRIs, which can interfere with 5-HTP's effectiveness.
5-HTP may be beneficial for many ailments, such as chronic headaches and fibromyalgia. It can also aid in weight loss. It has been demonstrated to improve sleep habits and decrease fatigue in fibromyalgia patients. It also has an calming effect and decrease anxiety in certain people. Research has also indicated that 5-HTP could increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels which is a neurotransmitter, which can reduce anxiety and increase feelings of peace.
Certain studies suggest that 5-HTP may aid in treating other ailments caused by low serotonin, like migraines and tension headaches. It has also been proven to increase the production of melatonin which is essential for a healthy sleep pattern. A few studies suggest that consuming 100 mg of 5-HTP per day may help relieve fibromyalgia stiffness and pain, as well as mood.
Anyone who is considering taking 5-HTP should discuss it with a doctor first. This is important for people who are taking SSRIs or MAOIs because 5-HTP can interact with these medications and cause dangerous adverse side effects. Some people be prone to nausea when taking high doses of 5HTP.
Kava
Kava is a traditional medicinal herb from the Pacific Islands. It has been utilized for centuries as a ceremonial drink and as a medicinal. It functions like alcohol in calming the mind and relaxing muscles, but it doesn't cause the adverse effects associated with many prescription drugs. The plant's active compound, kavalactone, alters the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway in the brain, causing anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Studies have demonstrated that it is effective in treating general anxiety disorder (GAD) and stress and without the "hangover" effect of traditional sedatives.
It has been shown to have many other health benefits. These include boosting dopamine and alleviating the symptoms of chronic pain or fibromyalgia. It also lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones and boosts the immune system. Kava is available in capsule, tablet or tincture form. Kava can be added to teas and other beverages. It is a good idea to consult with your doctor before trying any herbal supplements. Dietary supplements aren't controlled by the FDA as such, and are not subject to the same rigorous clinical tests as prescription drugs. This puts consumers vulnerable to various health dangers such as liver damage.
Kava should be avoided by those suffering from lung, heart or liver problems. It can aggravate those conditions. Kava should be avoided by people suffering from mental health issues because it can cause dilated pupillary eyeballs, reddened eyes, and diminished muscle control. When it is combined with other psychoactive drugs such as prescription medication or alcohol, kava can be a risk. Kava is also not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing mothers.
Kava is a natural substance and there's no evidence it has addictive properties, but the risk of liver damage can't be completely eliminated. People who are concerned about liver damage must speak to their doctor before starting a kava regimen. More research is needed to identify the factors that make kava dangerous however, it's generally safe for most patients under medical supervision.
St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort (Hypericum Perforatum) can help with mild to moderate depression. Certain studies suggest that it can improve your mood by affecting how to treat anxiety and depression without medication (
Opensourcebridge.science) your body uses certain chemicals, such as serotonin. It is also believed to be a part of a type antidepressant referred to as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. They are the most popular medications used to treat depression. It might not work as well for people suffering from severe depression however. And it's important to talk with a physician prior to taking St. John's Wort, since it can interact with certain drugs in dangerous
holistic ways to treat depression.
In a 12-week study, St. John's wort was equally effective as a standard antidepressant for reducing symptoms of mild depression.