Ayurvedic Herbs For Depression

Ayurveda is the traditional health care system of India. It is a comprehensive system based on the five natural elements of earth, air, fire, water and ether, which are combined to form three primary energy or body types known as doshas. Balancing the doshas with exercise, yoga, meditation and herbs is the goal of Ayurvedic medicine. As with any form of therapy, side effects and adverse reactions can occur. Consult a qualified health care practitioner to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Shatavari

This herb's scientific name is Asparagus racemosis. It is a member of the Liliaceae family and grows in low jungle areas in India. It is considered the most important herb in Ayurvedic medicine for female health. For both women and men, it is used as a rejuvenating tonic and, as such, it is helpful at relieving the nervousness and anxiety that often accompanies depression. It is also known to boost positive emotions and calm negative ones. Shatavari can cause skin and respiratory reactions in sensitive individuals, and those with fluid imbalances from kidney or heart conditions should not take this herb, according to the website Rvita.com.

Bhringraj

Popular as a remedy for preventing gray hair and for promoting liver health in Ayurvedic medicine, bhringraj also soothes the nervous system and is useful for lifting depression. Results of a study published in the October 2005 "Journal of Ethnobiology" led the researchers to recommend this herb for its potential neuropharmacologic effects in counteracting the effects of stress on the nervous system. Adverse effects, allergies or intolerance may occur, depending on pre-existing health conditions or other factors. Consult a qualified health care practitioner for the most appropriate course of treatment using bhringraj.

Brahmi

Brahmi has been a mainstay of Ayurvedic medicine since the 6th century, used primarily for enhancing mental health, memory, learning and mental clarity. It is believed to improve the rate of nerve impulse transmission. An October 2008 study in the "Journal of Ethnobotany" found that the antioxidant properties of brahmi suppressed oxidative effects on neurons and concluded that brahmi may be useful in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease, a chronic degenerative brain condition associated with cognitive loss and depression. As with any herbal product, a qualified health practitioner should be consulted before starting on a program that includes brahmi.

Guduchi

Guduchi is a deciduous, twining herb that grows in forests throughout India. It climbs over trees and sends out aerial roots as long as long as 30 feet. It is a rejuvenating and immune building herb that increases strength, improves immunity and enhances cognitive functions and memory, making it ideal for the mental sluggishness that accompanies some forms of depression, according to the website Ayurvedicdietsolutionscom. Though it is safe with short-term use, no long-term studies have been done.

Triphala

Triphala is a combination of three dried fruits: the Indian gooseberry, or amlaki, black haritaki and bibhitaki. This popular Ayurvedic formula has purported benefits for digestion and skin health. It is nourishing to the body and mind, says the website ILoveIndia.com, and is helpful in combating fatigue and the physical sluggishness involved in depression. Triphala may have gastrointestinal side effects, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.