Depression is far more than sadness, explains Helpguide.org. People who are depressed commonly feel apathetic, empty and lifeless. The feeling of depression takes over day-to-day living, interfering with work, social life, eating and sleep. Typical symptoms of depression include, sleep or appetite changes, loss of energy, self-loathing, loss of interest in daily life and a feeling of helplessness. Patients suffering from depression should always consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
St John's Wort
The active parts of St John's wort, also know as Hypericum perforatum, are hypericin and hyperforin, explains the American Cancer Society. St John's wort has been approved by Germany's regulatory agency for herbs, Commission E, for the treatment of anxiety and depression. In a study published in a 1994 issue of the "Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology," researchers studied the affect of hypericum extract on patients suffering with depression. The team found that 300 mg three times a day for four weeks improved depression. Other symptoms of depression such as tiredness, disturbed sleep and lack of activity where also improved. St John's wort does react with a wide variety of medications and should only be taken under the guidance of a health care provider, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center website.
5-Hydroxy-L-Tryptophan
5-hydroxytryptophan, more commonly called 5-HTP, is made by the body from the essential amino acid tryptophan, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center website. 5-HTP is then converted in the body into serotonin, an important neurotransmitter, which helps to pass signals between brain cells. Serotonin is important for regulating our mood and behavior. In a study published in a 1978 issue of "Folia Psychiatrica et Neurologica Japonica," researchers studied the affect of 5-HTP on patients with depressive symptoms. The team found that 150 to 300 mg of 5-HTP daily for three weeks helped to improve depression.
People suffering with depression should always consult a doctor before taking any 5-HTP supplements.
Fish Oil
According to psychiatrist Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D on MayoClinic.com, fish oils may help ease the symptoms of severe depression. Fish oil is a good source of the omega-3 essential fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, which are very important for brain function. People with depression may have low levels of EPA and DHA, explains Flavin, who recommends a supplement of 100 mg to 300 g of EPA or a supplement that contains both EPA and DHA to help depression. Fish rich in omega-3 oils include salmon, sardines and mackerel.
References
- Helpguide.org: Understanding Depression.
- American Cancer Society: St John's Wort
- "Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology": Hypericum treatment of mild depressions with somatic symptoms: Hubner WD, Lande S, Podzuweit H: 1994
- University of Maryland: St John's wort
- The University of Maryland: 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
- "Folia Psychiatrica et Neurologica Japonica": Clinical evaluation of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan as an antidepressant drug: Nakajima T, Kudo Y, Kaneko Z:1978.
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