In the United States, an estimated 28 million Americans take antidepressant remedies to combat the symptoms of depression. While, a nonpathogenic depression is considered a healthy reaction to loss or change, it becomes a disorder when the depression lingers past its adaptogenic purpose, and the patient "gets stuck" in the condition. Sufferers experience despair and hopelessness that can cause them to cry for no apparent reason, lose their appetite, have difficulty concentrating and experience insomnia, according to "Acupuncture Today." Long-term depression sufferers often take pharmaceutical medications to combat the symptoms, which can have unpleasant side effects. A qualified health care provider can recommend herbs for depression as an alternative to prescription medications.
Ding Xin Wan
Chinese herbal formulas have been used anecdotally for centuries to treat a variety of conditions including depression. A calming formula called ding xin wan treats heart yin deficiency and is especially useful for anxiety-based depression and insomnia. This formula contains bai zi ren, which has been used traditionally for irritability, insomnia and forgetfulness; enzymes that neutralize free radicals created from stress; the calming mineral magnesium and the amino acid taurine. Indications for the ding xin wan formula include include a fast pulse and dry tongue, according to "Acupuncture News."
Saffron
Saffron, a popular culinary and medicinal herb, was been studied in Iran for its effectiveness in treating depression. In 2005, A.A. Noorbala and his team studied the efficacy of saffron compared with fluoxetine (brand name, Prozac), and they published their findings in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology." Saffron was found to perform as well as fluoxetine for the treatment of depression. The recommended dosage for saffron is 30 mg daily taken in two divided doses, according to the Institute of Traditional Medicine.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort is a well-known herbal remedy for depression. Research in Europe and the United States has supported its use, suggesting that the herb is more effective than a placebo. Data gathered by K. Behnke from the Institute for Phytopharmaceuticals, Berlin, Germany, and published in "Advanced Therapy" in 2002, indicates that St. John's wort may be just as effective as SSRI antidepressants, such as fluoxetine, with fewer side effects, reported website Healthline.com. However, St. John's wort can cause interactions with prescription drugs, herbs and supplements, and patients should consult their health care provider prior to starting therapy. Dosage recommendations vary from 900 mg to 1,800 mg of St. John's wort daily.
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