There have been many instances in this past week where people are complaining of unexplained depression, anger and complete anxiety. Could this have something to do with the extreme weather changes and the super moon that was recently seen? Whatever the reason is for the new wave of depression, be aware that there is natural help to alleviate these bothersome symptoms.
Curing depression is a task few can
say they have accomplished. Natural remedies are being used more and more as
pharmaceutical medicines have many side effects, including the fact that you
will gain weight. The weight gain alone is enough deterrent to convince you
that there are better and less expensive alternatives available.
What
is depression?
Depression is the inability to cope
with normal day-to-day problems. It is an illness that affects the entire body
and mind. Depression may come in many forms from anxiety to the more severe
cases of manic bipolar disease. Depression will not cure itself and without
treatment depressive personalities will seep further into despair.
There are many natural herbs and
remedies that will alleviate depression symptoms and provide relief. These
herbs are meant to provide you with the ability to handle normal stress without
thoughts of suicide or hopelessness. Some herbs will however have side effects.
So, make sure to speak to your doctor prior to beginning any natural protocol.
Natural
treatments for depression
Ginger and black seeds are used in
conjunction together to cause relaxation. You simply grind around one inch of
fresh ginger and then add in some black seeds (Nigella sativa). Mix well and
then eat. This mixture will relax you completely.
Another common remedy for depression
and stress is anise tea. Do not use the tea bags as the bags may be toxic. Use
fresh anise seeds and a few leaves of mint in one cup of boiling water. Let the
tea steep for a few minutes, drain and then drink. You may add some honey if
you prefer.
One of the newer reported remedies
for depression is 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan). Although there are not enough
scientific studies on the effectiveness of this natural remedy, many users do
swear by its effectiveness. 5-HTP helps to boost the serotonin levels of the
body and thus eliminate depression. This remedy may not work on bipolar and
manic depression.
Diet may also contribute to
depression. Change your diet to a healthy diet and see the change. Sugar should
be avoided along with processed foods. A diet of fruit and vegetables is best. Exercise is also suggested. Go for a walk in the park or jump on a mini trampoline to flow lymph and refreshen your very soul.
St. John's Wort - #1 Natural Medicine for Depression
The use of St. John's Wort has
increased recently especially in Europe and the US. In Germany, St. John's Wort
is used seven times more than Prozac and sold only by prescription. St. John's
Wort's benefits are many and should only be used from mild to moderate cases of
depression. Studies showed that the natural medicine was effective on manic and
bi-polar disease.
What
is St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort has been used for
over 2400 years for many illnesses including depression. It has been used as a
pain killer, menstrual relief and for treating arthritis. It is a perennial
yellow flower plant that is available all over the world. There have been numerous
studies proving its effectiveness against depression.
With over 30 studies being
conducted, St. John's Wort was proven to be just as effective as Zoloft or
Prozac, except for two studies which showed that it was not more effective than
a placebo.
Benefits
of St. John's Wort
The benefits of St John's Wort are
only seen in mild and moderate depression. It is not suggested for bi-polar or
manic depression. The benefits of taking this natural remedy are:
- promotes sleep
- relieves anxiety and the feeling of hopelessness
- returns appetite and removes stress
St Johns Wort side effects
The side effects are very minimal
and in most cases, are not noted at all. The side effects are:
- Sensitivity to light
- Stomach problems
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
Do not take St John's Wort if you
are pregnant or in conjunction with any other herbal or prescription medicine.
Long-term use of this natural medicine has not been established yet.
Studies are under way before final
conclusions can be made. You should consult with your physician before taking
any natural medicine for depression.
How
to take St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort can be taken in
several ways. You can buy the tablets; make a St. John's Wort tea or oil. St.
Johns Wort dosage is 900 mg daily. You should take 300 mg of 0.3% hypericin
three times a day and not all at once.
The medicine is sold in strengths of
0.125% to 0.3% hypericin. The normal range of this herbal treatment for
depression is 0.3%. Results with St. John's Wort will not be seen for several
days. As with other depression medicines, your body must first absorb the
medicine and then the results can be visible.
If you want to make the tea, put 1
to 2 cups of the flowers in a pot of water containing 1 cup of boiling water.
Let the tea steep for a few minutes and then drink the tea three times a day.
If you use dried flowers, you can use less.
MY RECOMMENDED ST. JOHN'S WORT ON AMAZON
MY RECOMMENDED ST. JOHN'S WORT ON AMAZON
Resources:
WebMD.com
Vanderbilt.edu.com
Bhia.com
