Depression is an illness that affects an individual not only mentally but emotionally and physically as well. It is traditionally treated with antidepressants and therapy. While not widely studied, there are some home treatments available, including herbal and natural remedies, which may help relieve symptoms as well.
Naturopathic medicine promotes a holistic approach to health with minimal use of surgeries and drugs. Please make sure to consult your physician before attempting naturopathic remedies at home.
St. John's Wort
According to the University of Maryland, St. John's wort has been shown to be equally effective in treating mild to moderate depression as traditionally prescribed antidepressant medications. Those suffering from depression can take 300mg, one to three times a day, though it may take up to a month to take effect fully. When taking other medications, consult a doctor or pharmacist to ensure no drug interaction occurs. St. John's wort should not be taken with birth control as it may render the birth control ineffective.
L-tryptophan (5-HTP)
L-tryptophan (5-HTP) increases serotonin levels in the body, which naturally decreases symptoms of depression. According to the University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine Department, this supplement is thought to be as beneficial as Luvox and Tofranil in relieving depression. Individuals can take 150 to 300mg per day.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo is a supplement traditionally taken to improve memory, though patients reported an improvement of depression while taking it. According to the University of Maryland, ginkgo is thought to increase the brain's ability to absorb serotonin. It is most effective in older people. Further research is needed to understand fully ginkgo's effect on people suffering from depression.
Melatonin
Patients suffering from depression have been found to have an imbalance of melatonin. According to a study published in the "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience," supplementation of sustained release melatonin was found to improve sleep in these patients. Some study participants experienced improvement of depression symptoms, despite not responding to other antidepressant medications.
SAM-e
S-Adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) is a chemical compound found naturally in the human body. It is responsible for a variety of functions from supporting the immune system to production of brain chemicals. Supplementation with SAM-e has been used successfully to treat mild to moderate depression without harmful side effects, as reported by the University of Maryland Medical Center. Maurizio Fava, M.D., of Massachusetts General Hospital confirmed these results in a clinical trial performed by its psychiatry department regarding the usage of SAM-e as a treatment for depression. The clinical trial went on to prove the effectiveness of SAM-e when it was added to antidepressant therapy that didn't work alone.
