Natural Remedies to depression

We are not doctors and we are not providing medical advise here. We will leave that to the medical professionals. These are natural alternatives that we have found as non-drug alternatives. We also have listed several books on natural alternatives where you can research for yourself.

There are many alternative solutions to an anti-depressant prescription. We have a list here of a number of articles and solutions to depressed mood and behavior. All people have been depressed at some time from economic reasons (unemployment), social (loss of a loved one, divorce), and physical health reasons. 

Humankind has survived throughout history with natural solutions for thousands of years. Yet the western world has been fooled with a quick fix of pills that can also cause great harm.

Here are some of nature's alternatives

Omega-3 is found naturally in fish oils like wild salmon, mackerel, sardines, chia seeds and it has been found to be  significantly correlated with a higher volume of brain matter in the areas associated with the regulation of mood and emotion. More studies are being done, but the outlook looks positive.

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St. John’s Wort (Hypericum Perforatum) – This herbal depression remedy is made from the plant with the same name. St. John’s Wort comes in tablets, capsules, liquid extract and oil. Some studies have shown that this herb may be helpful in treating mild to moderate depression. (There have also been studies which do not demonstrate this.) This natural antidepressant is commonly used in many European countries. A concern is herbal remedies are not regulated and are not required to be tested for safety and quality. There are also drug interactions with St. John’s Wort and can make certain medications less effective (e.g. which treat certain cancers, heart disease, HIV, seizures, transplant rejection). Consult with your physician before taking St. John’s Wort. Do not take this natural remedy if you are also taking an antidepressant (e.g. SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants). Side effects are not common and less severe than typical antidepressants. They include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, upset stomach, constipation, sleep problems, restlessness and allergic reactions.

Amino Acids 5-Htp and SAMe

5-Hydroxy Tryptophan (5-HTP) is a natural anti-depressant made from the seeds of the Griffonia Simplicifolia plant. 5-HTP is a precursor to neurotransmitter, Serotonin and as a result increases Serotonin levels. This herbal remedy primarily comes in capsule form.  Some people who take 5-HTP notice the benefit of better mood balance, decrease in appetite, reduced anxiety, better impulse control, and better sleep. 5-HTP may also be helpful in some individuals with migraine headaches and fibromyalgia, although much more research is needed. Side effects appear to be fewer and less severe than usual antidepressants. They include nausea, constipation, heartburn, gas, drowsiness, and decreased sexual desire. 5-HTP can interact with other drugs. Consult a doctor before taking. Unfortunately, natural remedy studies are not heavily funded like pharmaceutical research but 5-HTP appears to also reduce the severity of panic attacks, which may indicate that panic attacks may partly be due to low serotonin levels. Again, further research is needed to confirm to solidify this.

SAMe

Several recent studies have added to a body of evidence suggesting that the substance SAMe (S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine) is an effective antidepressant.  In the U.S. SAMe is available over-the-counter and in health food stores.

A 2002 Italian study found SAMe to be as effective as imipramine, one of the original triclycic antidepressants. Read full article from About.com here.

B-12 Vitamins-studies have shown a link between B12 vitamin deficiency and depression.  B12 (folic acid) may defend against depression and help maintain positive mood. This natural remedy would not be sufficient alone to treat clinical depression, but may be a helpful addition. B12 is found in foods such as meat/liver, chicken, fish, milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs or supplements can be taken. 

Practical alternatives

Dianetic Auditing-Is a natural alternative to psychosomatic illness, stress and depression. Dianetic has statistics that shows the reduction in depression, stress and anxiety before and after. This is the premiere practical alternative, and there are many many success stories regarding the end results of Dianetic Auditing.

Exercise - Has many health benefits including improving mood and other depressive symptoms like low energy and trouble sleeping. Research has shown that exercise may be helpful in treating mild to moderate depression. Exercise, when effective, may take longer to work

Acupuncture – An ancient healing remedy from China which uses very tiny needles to activate certain points (meridians) on the body to control symptoms, treat illnesses and improve health. Acupuncture can act as an antidepressant by improving mood and symptoms associated with depression such as insomnia, fatigue, changes in appetite and anxiety.

Meditation – Numerous studies have shown meditation to have many health benefits as well as improving mood, anxiety and stress. Meditation can be a helpful addition to treating depression. Over time, meditation can help one feel more at peace and be able to step back and let go of thoughts, which is helpful since depressed individuals often experience repetitive negative thoughts. Meditation can be as simple as sitting quietly with eyes closed and concentrating on one’s breath. When you notice yourself no longer focusing on your breath, gently bring your focus back to your breathing.