Depression is a disorder characterized by moods, such as sadness, purposelessness and frustration that interfere with a person's ability to function. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), depression affects over 18 million Americans annually. Typical treatment involves psychotherapy and/or antidepressant medications. Natural supplements provide valuable options for those seeking natural treatment alternatives, those with mild-to-moderate depression and those seeking additions to current treatment. Supplements should be approved and monitored by medical professionals.
SAM-e
SAM-e is a substance that occurs naturally in the body and can be reaped through natural supplements. SAM-e supports brain development and helps produce important hormones associated with emotional well-being such as nor-epinephrine, serotonin, dopamine and opiates. SAM-e production reduces throughout the aging processes. People with depression tend to have reduced amounts. According to women's health expert, Christiane Northrup, M.D., SAM-e supplements may elevate a person's mood, provide a sense of emotional well-being, and promote vitality in people with depression. Standard dose of SAM-e is 400 mg, taken twice per day, or up to 800 mg divided into three doses and taken before meals. Northrup suggests that SAM-e often works for longer time periods than SSRIs (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors), such as Prozac, and may allow individuals with depression to gradually reduce intake of prescription antidepressant drugs. Such changes require doctor's approval and guidance.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, or omega-3 fats, are essential fats the body can't produce on its own. They are known to benefit heart health, reduce inflammation and support brain and nerve function. According to Northrup, omega-3 fatty acids may help alleviate depression in people whose brains do not produce proper chemicals. She suggests omega-3 fats for women who adhere to extremely low-fat diets in particular, as they are at heightened risk for brain chemical production problems. Omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce depression symptoms in women with postpartum depression and elderly adults Northrup recommends dosage of 1,000 to 5,000 mg of omega-3 fatty acid supplements daily for best results.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known simply as ginkgo, is a natural supplement derived from an ancient tree variety, recognized throughout history for its capacity to reduce symptoms related to asthma, bronchitis and fatigue. According to the UMMC, ginkgo supplements may also help alleviate memory problems in older adults and help alleviate depression. Ginkgo is believed to help the brain react more efficiently to serotonin, which promotes a person's emotional well-being. The UMMC suggests supplements that provide 40 to 80 mg of standardized ginkgo extract, taken three times daily, for people struggling with depression.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort (hypericum perforatum) is a yellow flowered plant known to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. St. John's wort is prescribed in Europe as treatment for depression and is available in natural supplement form in the United States. According to the UMMC, 300 mg of standardized extract of St. John's wort, taken two or three times daily, may help alleviate mild-to-moderate depression, while providing fewer side effects than most antidepressant medications. Once a person begins taking St. John's wort supplements, positive effects may take 4 to 6 weeks to appear. St. John's wort is known to cause interactions with other medications.
