St. John's Wort and increased folic acid intake can do wonders for many depressed people. Herbal remedies for depression are increasingly popular, but should not be undertaken without medical intervention.
Introduction
Many traditional medications for depression can cause or worsen the very symptoms the pills are designed to combat. When I was on Tegretol, a popular mood stabilizer, I was nearly crippled by leg pain and fatigue. With proper medical supervision and the right herbs, medications for depression can be minimized or even eliminated.
A suicidal depression, or depression with symptoms of mania or psychosis, needs immediate medical attention. The advice in this article should be used under professional supervision only, as suddenly going off antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-anxiety drugs, or anti-psychotics can cause serious, even potentially fatal, complications.
If you are not already on a depression medication regimen, it’s still probably a good idea to check in with a professional to ensure you are not allergic to any of the popular herbal remedies for depression mentioned in this article.
St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort is arguably one of the most popular herbal remedies for depression. Known as hypericum perforatum, numerous clinical trials have claimed St. John’s Wort is just as effective as antidepressants, but warn the herb should only be taken for mild or moderate depression. People with major depression or bipolar disorder should not take St. John’s Wort in lieu of their recommended medication. The herb is widely available, but like its traditional antidepressant counterparts, can take up to six weeks to work.
Folic Acid
Depressed people often lack enough vitamins in their body, especially vitamin B, found in folic acid. That compound, also known as folate, is found in green leafy vegetables such as lettuce and spinach, whole grains, fruit, beans, and some other vegetables. Even those eating enough fresh and whole foods with folate in it may have their stores depleted by taking aspirin or birth control pills, Folic acid is available in over-the-counter supplements. And for those who have a depression requiring antidepressant use, they can still benefit by eating foods with or taking a vitamin containing folic acid.
Other Methods
There are a variety of other methods you can employ to ease the symptoms of depression. These involve eating a healthy diet including some natural supplements, getting plenty of sunlight, exercise, yoga and even aromatherapy.
Disclaimer
Please read this disclaimer regarding the information you have just read.