According to the University of Michigan Health System, serotonin is a neurochemical that helps regulate and balance mood while providing an overall sense of well-being. If you are looking for a natural way to boost your serotonin levels, there are many herbal supplements available on the market today. Found in local drug stores and supermarkets, these herbs are available as pills, powders, beverages or liquid extracts. Before starting any new treatment, however, you should first speak to your doctor.
Kava Kava
The University of Michigan Health System lists kava kava, traditionally used as a means to treat anxiety and depression, as one herb that can increase serotonin levels within the brain. Kava kava contains active ingredients that promote a sense of calmness within the body, as the University website states. However, additional research into the herb suggest that liver functionality and health may be threatened when kava kava is taken as a daily supplement. Therefore, you should first speak to your doctor before consuming this supplement.
St. John's Wort
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, St. John's Wort can also be used to boost serotonin levels within the brain naturally. Also used as a means to help treat minor mental disorders such as anxiety and depression, St. John's Wort derives from a plant native to many parts of the world. As of 2010, there were no major side effects or adverse reactions documented for St. John's Wort consumption. Be sure to speak to your psychiatrist or medical doctor to determine the proper dosage to take for your condition.
5-HTP
5-hydroxtryptophan, often referred to as simply 5-HTP, is another herbal supplement known to increase serotonin levels within the brain. According to Drugs.com, a website dedicated to providing information on both prescription and alternative medications, 5-HTP can also help treat anxiety and depression in addition to fibromyalgia, insomnia, chronic headaches, binge-eating, and premenstrual disorders. Available in a variety of supplement dosages, 5-HTP is also suggested as a possible cause of seizure in patients, especially those diagnosed with Down Syndrome, as stated on Drugs.com. Due to this risk, it is imperative that you speak to your medical professional before using 5-HTP.
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ClaraHNS1 July 12
In addition to the Seratonin supplements mentioned by in this article, readers may also want to consider Alegria Del Campo (Scutellaria Coccinea), a South American plant used by indigenous tribes for decades to treat mental health issues. This potent natural antidepressant acts of the neurotransmitter seratonin, which influences moods and emotions helping people combat depression and lack of motivation.
Although its use its not intended to replace a conventional antidepressant drug, it may be used as a complementary supplement in the treatment of depression.
Alegria Plus is a great source of Scutellaria and also Sage, a central nervous system tonic.
This natural supplement manufactured by LabFarve, a prominent South American Laboratory, may be purchased at healthandnatureshop.com