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Natural Remedies for Depression: Alternative Treatments to
Antidepressants
For some people suffering from depression, antidepressants may not be a
favorable remedy. Some may prefer more natural remedies for depression.
Described below are some common
natural cures for depression, which include
natural antidepressants and other alternative treatments for depression. In
research studies, some natural depression treatments have been shown effective
in alleviating depressive symptoms while other natural remedies have not been
formally studied, but reported to be helpful anecdotally. In general, natural
treatments may be helpful for mild to moderate forms of depression.
Natural/Herbal Remedies for Depression
First, here is a precaution before you use natural remedies to treat
depression. With any natural medicine, you should consult your doctor before
taking, especially if you are taking other medication. Just because something is
all natural, does not mean it is not potentially dangerous (e.g. drug interactions).
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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.
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5-Hydroxy-Tryptophan (5-HTP) – A natural antidepressant 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 small studies indicate
that 5-HTP may be useful in treating depression, but further 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
5-HTP.
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B12 Vitamins – Some studies have shown a link between B12 vitamin
deficiency and depression (e.g. worsening). B12 (and 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
B12 vitamin supplements can be taken.
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Omega 3 Fatty Acids – Although not sufficient by itself to treat
depression, studies have shown that this all-natural remedy is a useful
adjunct to other depression treatment. The best way to get Omega 3s is to
eat fresh fish (e.g. salmon, sardines) or you can take
Omega3 supplements
(e.g. capsules, oil).
Natural Alternatives to Antidepressants
- Therapy of course! - Talking to a therapist can both help
alleviate depressive symptoms and help you cope with the stressors that
trigger or make depression worse. In fact, therapy can change brain
chemistry (as well as your thoughts – especially ones that are repetitive or
intense). The most common types of therapy to treat depression include
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT or Cognitive Restructuring), Interpersonal and
Solution Focused. For more information, please see
Get Depression Help and
Finding a Therapist.
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Depression Self-Help Book - To help therapy move along more quickly or
for mild to moderate depression, you can read a self-help book on treating
depression using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. CBT can be
relatively easy to learn which makes it well suited for self-help type
workbooks.
- 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 than anti-depressants.
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Light Therapy – Type of remedy that is used to treat Seasonal
Affective Disorder (SAD), which is depression that only occurs at specific
times of the year (e.g. fall, winter). As an alternative to antidepressants,
people with SAD are exposed to bright light (through a
florescent light
unit) that is equivalent to being outside during a sunny day. It is believed
that sunlight exposure helps regulate the body clock. When sunlight is
registered through the eyes, certain chemical changes occur in the brain
which involve Serotonin and Melatonin (which is associated with sleep/wake
patterns).
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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.
- 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.
Also see: [ treating depression ] [
antidepressants ]
DISCLAIMER:
The depression information provided is for educational and informational
purposes only. This information should not replace the advice of a physician,
psychiatrist or health care provider. Before taking any action, please consult
with a physician, psychiatrist or health care provider. Please see
Terms of Use for more information.
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