Depression affects all of us at some time or another, but for millions of people each year, depression is a serious problem affecting their daily lives. Often these people are subjected to years or a lifetime of prescription antidepressants, which can have a number of side effects from weight gain to seizures, and often over time these medications become less and less effective, necessitating constant adjustment for the patient to see results. But there are herbal alternatives which can be used alone or in a complimentary therapy to prescription medications, in order to use less of the prescription.
One of the most well known and widely accepted herbal treatments for depressions is St. John’s Wort. St. John’s Wort works by altering the levels of the brain chemicals serotonin and melatonin which regulate mood, energy levels and sleep patterns. It is also found in scientific studies to increase theta waves. These brain waves only occur in deep sleep or deep meditation. However for it to be effective, St. John’s Wort must be taken on a regular schedule so that it can build up in the body and it is most effective when used as a tincture or infusion. You can often find St. John’s Wort tea at natural food stores.
For the anxiety that often accompanies depression, you can’t beat Valerian. Valerian is the basis of the modern day valium, but it is often more effective in its natural form. It is a calming herb and muscle relaxer and is often recommended by chiropractors and massage therapist to ease chronic muscle pain. Valerian is also very useful in aiding sleep, which often suffers in those with depression because of the imbalance of melatonin and serotonin. Melatonin is a sleep regulator, so if the levels aren’t sufficient, sleep will suffer.
Other helpful herbs for treating depression include hops and borage. Hops is known for it’s anti-anxiety properties and can be infused into a tea. Borage is an adrenaline stimulant. This beautiful blue flower works with the adrenal gland to boost energy levels.
If you suffer from depression, know that there is something you can do, besides be subjected to drugs for the rest of your life. While these herbs may not be enough for everyone, but for some they may just be the cure you need.
One of the most well known and widely accepted herbal treatments for depressions is St. John’s Wort. St. John’s Wort works by altering the levels of the brain chemicals serotonin and melatonin which regulate mood, energy levels and sleep patterns. It is also found in scientific studies to increase theta waves. These brain waves only occur in deep sleep or deep meditation. However for it to be effective, St. John’s Wort must be taken on a regular schedule so that it can build up in the body and it is most effective when used as a tincture or infusion. You can often find St. John’s Wort tea at natural food stores.
For the anxiety that often accompanies depression, you can’t beat Valerian. Valerian is the basis of the modern day valium, but it is often more effective in its natural form. It is a calming herb and muscle relaxer and is often recommended by chiropractors and massage therapist to ease chronic muscle pain. Valerian is also very useful in aiding sleep, which often suffers in those with depression because of the imbalance of melatonin and serotonin. Melatonin is a sleep regulator, so if the levels aren’t sufficient, sleep will suffer.
Other helpful herbs for treating depression include hops and borage. Hops is known for it’s anti-anxiety properties and can be infused into a tea. Borage is an adrenaline stimulant. This beautiful blue flower works with the adrenal gland to boost energy levels.
If you suffer from depression, know that there is something you can do, besides be subjected to drugs for the rest of your life. While these herbs may not be enough for everyone, but for some they may just be the cure you need.
Check out http://www.moriahherbs.com/, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
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