Natural Remedies For Depression - Let Mother Nature Lend a Hand

If you suffer from depression, you know how hard it can be to face each day. You're not alone feeling the way you do. Millions of people suffer just like you, and many get the strength they need from natural remedies for depression.

Anyone who's tried medication to overcome depression knows that it has its ups and downs. Anti-depressants work well but often have side effects. The relief they offer is temporary, like a band-aid that simply covers the wound. Natural remedies for depression offer an easier way to keep the blues at bay.

Here are just a few of the most common natural remedies for depression:

St. John's Wort

This herb has been used to treat mental problems since the days of ancient Greece. It is a plant with yellow flowers that contains hypericin and hyperforin, which are believed to give it its mind altering effects.

Recent clinical studies show that St. John's Wort is just as effective as prescribed antidepressants in treating mild to medium level cases of depressive disorder. The plant is not as effective in treating severe cases, but studies are still being done on the plant's exact effects.

You can buy St. John's Wort capsules, tincture or tea. If you buy capsules, be sure to check the dosage. You should be taking about 900 milligrams per day for best results. If you're drinking tea, seep about a teaspoon of St. John's Wort in a cup of hot water. Make sure the leaves are dried, and let it seep for about 5 minutes. For best results, drink two cups a day at different times.

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5-HTP (5-Hydroxy-Tryptophan)

5-HTP comes from a plant called griffonia simplicifolia. 5-Hydroxy-Tryptophan is produced naturally in the body. It's a compound that helps change the amino acid tryptophan into serotonin, which regulates brain functioning. It also helps to regulate sleep, making it an effective treatment against insomnia also.

This herbal supplement is most often found in capsule form. Although it is sold over the counter, taking too much 5-HTP can be hazardous to your health. It's also been reported that the body builds up an immunity to it if taken over a long period of time.

For detailed instructions on when and how to take your 5-HTP capsule, talk to your doctor. Results vary from person to person. It's usually recommended that you take it on an empty stomach. It can also interact with other supplements, so check with your doctor.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

These are more commonly known as "fish oil." It is a type of fat found in fish and certain meat and dairy products that helps to regulate normal brain functioning. Recent studies show that depressive disorders may be caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. Fish oil helps to regulate and keep you on an even keel.

In addition to being one of the best natural remedies for depression, fish oil also helps lower blood pressure, prevent heart attacks and keep down swelling. You can increase the amount of omega-3 fatty acids you take in by either getting more fish in your diet (especially cold water fish like salmon) or from capsules.

When buying fish oil capsules, always check dosages. On the ingredients label it will tell you how much of your Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) this capsule will cover. It should be at least 30 percent for best results. At first, take just one pill per day, because your body needs time to get used to it. Some people have a mild allergic reaction, and it can interact with other medications. If you're taking it in liquid form, start with one teaspoon per day.

B-12 Vitamins

B-12 vitamins are also known as "folic acid." Recent studies show that they are linked with positive feelings and relaxation. Folic acid can be used not only to treat depressive disorder, but also to help reduce stress.

They're found naturally in lots of foods we eat daily, including meat, milk, cheese and other dairy products, fish and eggs. Doctors recommend pregnant women take folic acid supplements to help the baby develop. It's also been noted by scientists that countries whose diets are high in folic acid and folates, like China and Japan, suffer lower rates of depression than countries that do not. High intakes of B-12 vitamins are not known to produce toxicity, but always take just the recommended dose.

Natural remedies for depression are effective in balancing moods and regulating brain functions. Many of them also have other positive side effects, like helping handle stress or reducing the risk of heart attack. However, remember that these herbal remedies are potent. Just because they are natural doesn't mean they may not carry side effects.

Before taking any supplements, always talk to a doctor to make sure you're not at risk. Some natural remedies for depression interact with other chemicals in the body or with other medications you may be taking. Also, be sure to never exceed the recommended dosage.

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