In his article, Herbal Remedies, Peter DeSmet, Pharm D., Ph.D. reported for "New England Journal of Medicine" that herbal remedies are becoming an increasingly popular form of alternative therapy in the United States. There are many popular alternative remedies for the myriad of health problems that humans face. Since alternative remedies are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are not as many studies done regarding their use. St. John's wort is the only herbal remedy that has had significant scientific research completed regarding depression.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort is commonly promoted for depression and anxiety. According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of this herb for mild or moderate episodes of depression. Be cautioned though, there is no evidence that St. John's wort is helpful in severe depression. Experts at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) say that St. John's wort contains hypericin, hyperforin, and flavonoids which researchers think may act like SSRIs by making more serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine available for the brain. These neurotransmitters elevate mood. Dr. Andrew Weil, author and an integrative medical physician, suggests that depressed patients take 300 mg. of St. John's wort three times each day with food.
Valerian
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, valerian has a long-standing reputation as a sleep aid; however, it is also used for anxiety and depression. Although there is no scientific data to verify the use of valerian for anxiety or depression, its effects on calming the nerves is significant says "Insight Journal." The experts at the UMMC say valerian has been shown in some studies to be safe and effective as a sleep aid. Since insomnia is a frequent symptom of depression, valerian may be useful for persons suffering from depression.
Other Herbs
Chamomile has long been known for its calming effects. "Insight Journal" reports this is a popular herb used to decrease tension, increase relaxation, and soothe nervous tension--all of which can be associated with depression. Passion flower is an herb that is a natural sedative and anxiolytic. It can reduce anxiety and improve mood, say the experts at UMMC, but is not as strong as valerian. Siberian ginseng may be helpful in treating depression according to World Health.
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