Valerian, St. John's Wort and Kava are three commonly used herbs for mental health. Scientific research points to these herbs as having substantial benefits for improving mental health conditions.
The use of herbs for mental health is not a new concept. Herbs have been used for thousands of years for mental health conditions. Modern science has shed new light on understanding how these age old remedies work.
Herbs can contain active compounds that produce actions similar to pharmaceutical drugs and often cause fewer side effects. Just because herbs are natural, does not mean that they cannot cause side effects or interactions with other medications. It is wise to do research and consult with a doctor or a pharmacist before taking new herbs.
Positive results in scientific studies prove that herbs should not be overlooked as an option for treatment of mental health conditions. Valerian, St. John's Wort and Kava in particular have been shown to have beneficial properties.
Uses: Relieve anxiety and treat insomnia.
The active compounds in Valerian are not known, but research suggests that Valerian may work in a similar way as benzodiazepines by affecting the brain chemical GABA.
Scientific research suggests that Valerian helps a person to fall asleep quicker and enables them to experience a more restful sleep. Studies show that Valerian may have an accumulative effect and work better when taken nightly for a period of more than four weeks.
Scientific studies on the use of Valerian to treat anxiety have been limited. The limited studies have shown reduced anxiety in patients who took Valerian.
Use: Treatment of Depression
Warning: St. John’s Wort can cause serious reactions when taken in combination with some herbs or prescription drugs. A doctor or pharmacist should be consulted before taking St. John’s Wort.
Scientific research conducted on the use of St. John’s Wort in the treatment of minor to moderate depression has shown favorable results. Results showed that St. John’s Wort was as effective as tricyclic antidepressants and serotonin reuptake inhibitors in the treatment of depression.
Studies on the use of St. John’s Wort for the treatment of severe depression were inconclusive.
Use: Anxiety
Warning: There have been some reports that Kava has caused liver damage and liver failure in some patients.
There is strong scientific evidence that Kava is useful in the treatment of anxiety. One study suggested that Kava was comparable to Buspar. Another showed that Kava might be comparable to benzodiazepines.
U.S. National Library of Medicine
National Institutes of Health
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not meant to act as or replace medical advice. Always seek the advice of a medical profesional before taking any herbal supplements.