Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of low mood, sadness and hopelessness. It causes a wide variety of symptoms, some of which may include fatigue, insomnia, and changes in appetite and sleeping patterns. There are many herbal depression treatments on the market today, some of which may provide considerable relief when used in conjunction with counseling and other therapies.
Types
St. John's wort, Panax ginseng and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) are among the most popular herbs for depression. While not an herb itself, 5-HTP is derived from the African Griffonia simplicifolia plant. It has antidepressant effects, and is also marketed as a weight loss and insomnia remedy due to its effects on serotonin.
St. John's wort is a perennial plant with yellow flowers that has been used traditionally to treat burns and other skin wounds, though its primary use is treating depression. While not known to have direct antidepressant effects, Panax ginseng may help reduce the effects of stress while improving energy levels and overall quality of life.
Effects
Panax ginseng is an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to the physical damage caused by stress. According to the National Institutes of Health, ginseng may improve energy, stress levels and overall quality of life. Other potential benefits include improved immune function and cognition.
St. John's wort is a mild monoamine oxidase inhibitor that is frequently prescribed in Germany and other countries to treat depression. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, St. John's wort may be as effective as fluoxetine (Prozac) and other Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors in treating mild-to-moderate depression.
5-HTP is a tryptophan precursor that can help increase levels of serotonin in the brain. Because serotonin is responsible for regulating mood, sleep patterns and appetite, 5-HTP may be a useful remedy for depression and accompanying symptoms such as insomnia and weight gain.
Safety
When taken with other antidepressants, 5-HTP can cause serotonin syndrome--a potentially fatal condition caused by excessive serotonin in the body. Symptoms include profuse sweating, muscle rigidity, nausea and hallucinations.
Due to its mild monoamine oxidase inhibiting effects, St. John's wort can cause dangerous interactions with a number of medications, including benzodiazepines, immune suppressants and hormonal contraceptives. Side effects of St. John's wort include sun sensitivity, nausea and dry mouth. Panax ginseng has been shown to increase blood pressure and should not be taken by those with a history of heart disease or high blood pressure.
Considerations
Not everyone taking herbal supplements will experience side effects. Because they are loosely regulated by the FDA, herbal supplements may contain impurities that can pose health risks independent of those caused by the herb itself. Buying standardized preparations that bear the "U.S. Pharmacopeia" seal may reduce the risks of contamination.
Warning
Ask your doctor before taking an herbal supplement for depression. Never stop taking your depression medication without a doctor's supervision, and avoid mixing herbal depression supplements with pharmaceutical antidepressants.
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