Depression is a condition that affects practically all human being at least once in his/her life. It ranges from mild to serious. Signs can vary from the not-so-critical feeling of sadness and anxiousness, often called "the blues", to the more life-threatening thoughts of suicide and suicide attempts. Other indicators include loss of interest in everyday activities including sex, feelings of worthlessness and guilt, too much changes in hunger and weight, complexity in concentrating and remembering, fatigue and lethargy.
Experts know from experience that depression can be cured. The vital thing is to recognize the indicators and seek expert help as soon as possible. Most of the depression experts, aside from counseling, prescribe anti-depressant medicines like Prozac. However, these almost always have side effects that may trigger other problems like insomnia and anxiety. Today, therefore, more people prefer organic herbal supplements over pharmaceutical medicines.
The most popular herb that's used to treat depression is St. John's Wort. It is a plant with yellow flowers that contain lots of chemical compounds including hypericin and hyperforin. For centuries, this plant has been used for mental and other health disorders. Recent studies show that St. John's Wort is effective for mild to moderate depression, as it enhances sleep and feelings of well-being. It likewise is non-addictive and doesn't show any significant negative effects. St. John's Worts are sold as capsules, tablets, dried teas & liquid extracts.
Another accepted herb for the treatment of depression is kava-kava, a shrub that belongs to the pepper family. Found mainly in the Pacific, the roots of this plant have been used traditionally for sedating and treating anxiety. Now a days, even the stems and leaves are used, though there have been signs of negative effects affecting the liver, particularly hepatitis and cirrhosis. It is always suggested to take kava-kava under close supervision by a doctor. Children, pregnant women, persons with liver disorders and those with history of alcohol use aren't advised to take kava-kava.
Passionflower is also used to treat mild depression. Native to the USA, with a number of species in Asia, South America and Australia, this perennial vine has been referred to as a calming herb since ancient times. It is believed to aid lower the activity of some brain cells, thus it makes a person relaxed and calm. However, since it is always combined with other herbs like valerian and lemon balm, there is no known effect of passionflower if taken alone. Similarly, its negative effects are inconclusive. It is available in the form of teas, fluid extracts and tinctures.
Other efficient herbal supplements for the treatment of depression are: 5 HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), an amino acid that's known to improve a person's mood in just a few days without any major unwanted effects; SAM-e or S-adenosylmethionine, another amino acid that helps normalize liver function apart from its antidepressant properties; Ginseng, an herb grown in many parts of Asia and is proven to increase energy and vitality; Ginkgo or Ginkgo Biloba, a tree whose leaf extract works well in improving the social behavior of the elderly.
Overall, all the above herbal supplements have their own merits. Appropriate doses with professional medical supervision will help alleviate the symptoms of depression, particularly if still within the mild and moderate levels.
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