Herbs and Vitamins for Depression

Depression can cause serious physical and emotional symptoms that interfere with your ability to live life to the fullest. Chronic fatigue, lethargy, hopelessness, a constant sense of sadness and depressed mood are all signs of depression, and it can be very hard to function when you’re experiencing these symptoms.

For people with major depressive disorder, it is important to seek the help of medical professionals. Prescription medication might be necessary, at least in the beginning stages of treatment. For those who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of depression, however, there are herbal supplements and vitamins that can help alleviate some symptoms of depression.

If you’re interested in natural supplements for depressive symptoms, these are the herbs and vitamins to look for:

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum Perforatum)

St. John’s Wort has gained in popularity over the last several years as a “natural antidepressant.” Hypericin, Hyperforin, and Adhyperforin are the active derivatives that give St. John’s Wort its antidepressive action. It has been shown to be a Natural Reuptake Inhibitor, which means that it has positive effects on the availability of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine. These control and stabilize mood, warding off the symptoms of depression.

SAM-e (S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine)

SAM-e is a natural mood-enhancing chemical produced in the body. Supplementing the diet with SAM-e can increase levels of this chemical as well as the production of important mood stabilizing neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.

Vitamin B Complex

B-vitamins are essential for emotional health. They also increase energy, fighting the fatigue that often comes with depression. They have positive effects on cell communication in the brain and support a healthy central nervous system.

Bacopa (Bacopa Monniera)

Depression often interrupts our ability to concentrate, obtain mental clarity and make decisions. The Bacosides, Alkaloids, and Glycosides in Bacopa support brain functions including concentration, memory, focus and mental endurance.

Valerian Root (Valerina Officinalis)

One of the symptoms of depression is sleep difficulty. Valerian Root is a mild sedative that can alleviate sleep difficulty. Valerian Root soothes the nerves to reduce nervous tension and stabilize mood for a healthy emotional balance.

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)

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This phytochemical, derived from the seeds of Griffonia Simplicifolia, is a precursor to the production of serotonin. It controls mood balance and can counter the effects of depression on appetite and sleep.

When using herbal supplements and vitamins to support a positive mood balance, it is also important to practice healthy lifestyle habits and emotional coping mechanisms. Used as a part of an overall wellness plan, these herbs and vitamins can help you achieve relief from certain symptoms of mild to moderate depression, leaving you with a sense of overall well-being.

Author: Nan Little

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