Natural Herbal Treatment for Depression – It IS Possible!

Depression is among the top mental illnesses affecting Americans.  Around 10 million Americans suffer from the effects of depression – every six months.  It is important to realize however, that depression does not affect people of one race or social rank more than people of another race or social status. Depression can lead to suicide if left untreated.

Naturally, there are many treatment and home remedies for depression. Unfortunately, many of the commonly used treatments involve the use of medications that lead to potentially harmful or disruptive side effects. For this reason, therapy is gaining popularity among medical professionals and patients alike because it has no negative side effects.

Other patients are seeking a natural treatment for their depression, one that does not include the use of mainstream medications commonly prescribed. Fortunately, there are natural alternatives available. However, it is important that even natural treatment plans include a discussion with a mental health provider or physician.  Here is a list of some alternative natural treatments commonly used by depression sufferers.

It Starts with the Diet

Depression symptoms may be alleviated or at least reduced by improving one’s diet.  The effects are not only emotional, and can benefit the patient in terms of physical health as well.  Dietary modification may include changes in eating habits, the addition of minerals, vitamins and amino acids.

Amino acid supplements like D, L-phenylalanine and L-tyrosine may provide a good alternative for depression patients who are not comfortable with traditional depression medications.

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies within the body can also lead to depression. With correction, depression can be alleviated when the deficiencies no longer exist. Supplementing minerals and vitamins as part of a healthy lifestyle may inadvertently assist in the treatment of any depression symptoms and should be seriously considered.

Some Very Useful Herbs for Depression

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) in an herb that in its extracted standardized form, is commonly used among depression patients in Germany and other European areas for treating mild to moderate depression.  St. John’s Wort is known for its ability to eliminate anxiety and sleep disorders.

St. John’s Wort is also an anti-viral herb that will help promote general health as well as treat mild forms of depression.

Ginkgo Biloba extract is a great supplement when added to the diet of anyone suffering from mild depression symptoms. Studies show the effectiveness of using Ginkgo treat some forms of depression that do not respond to antidepressant medications. The appearance of this herb in the medical world is relatively new, in the past decade or so it has gained popularity.

Cut Back on Those Soft Drinks

Reducing the amount of refined sugars and carbohydrates in one’s diet will assist in generating a healthy lifestyle and in using a nutritional approach to the treatment of depression.  Many doctors believe that nutritional modification is a great place to start when treating depression.

Removing sodas, juices and other sugar-laced drinks in addition to pasta, white breads and other processed foods is a great idea.  Grains, whole wheat and other whole foods are much better nutritionally.  Removing the bad foods you’re your diet will improve your health tremendously, in addition to alleviating the symptoms and effects of depression from your life.

Nutritional modification is specifically recommended for people who feel the symptoms of depression most during the morning and afternoon. This is because most people with this type of depression will find solace in sugary snacks that give them a boost. The problem is that this relief is temporary, and will not solve the problem on a long term basis.

Depression is sometimes mislabeled with the words anger, guilt or sadness. However, depression is so much more complicated than those emotions. Although it may demonstrate those emotions, depression is a disorder and an illness that can be successfully treated by natural or medical methods. Consulting a mental health provider is the best step to take in beginning the process of dealing with depression.

Depression

• Depression is a real illness
• Signs of Depression
• How do I know if I am severely depressed?
• What causes Depression?
• When should I see a doctor?
• Is there treatment for Depression?
• Are there any "natural" treatments for depression?
• Depression and Suicide
• Depression and Anxiety Disorders
• Manic Depression and Bipolar Disorder
• Panic Attacks and Depression
• Depression and Alcohol
• Prevent Depression in a Few Easy Steps