Herbs That Promote Seratonin

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that facilitates communication between nerve cells. The level of serotonin in the brain has a profound influence on behavior and mood. Many prescription antidepressants work by changing serotonin levels, according to MayoClinic.com. Certain herbs may have similar modes of action. Consult a qualified health care professional before using herbs as a treatment for low serotonin or any other condition.

St. John's Wort

St. John's wort, a flowering herb native to Europe, is popularly used for depression, as well as anxiety, fatigue, appetite loss and insomnia. Its use as a therapeutic herb dates back to the time of the ancient Greeks. The U.S. National Library of Medicine states that St. John's wort boosts serotonin in the brain, and that it may be as effective as certain prescription drugs for the symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression. St. John's wort carries with it the risk of side effects, including vivid dreams, restlessness, irritability and gastrointestinal distress. Because it increases serotonin, it should not be combined with prescription antidepressants. Use St. John's wort under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.

Rhodiola

Rhodiola, also known as golden root or Arctic root, has been used for generations by Russian and Scandinavian herbalists for relieving depression, increasing energy and boosting the body's resistance to stress. In his book "The Rhodiola Revolution," Columbia University psychiatry professor Dr. Richard Brown states that rhodiola increases the brain's supply of neurotransmitters, notably norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. Brown states that while only a few preliminary clinical trials have studied rhodiola for depression and other symptoms of low serotonin, many of his patients have reported an increase of joy, pleasure and excitement when using the herb. Like any herb, rhodiola may interfere with the action of drugs and other supplements. Consult a qualified health care professional for guidance on its use.

Bacopa

Bacopa, a traditional Ayurvedic herb, has been used for centuries to boost memory, intelligence, mood and cognitive health. It is also known as "brahmi." A succulent plant with small white flowers, bacopa is native to the wetlands of Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and China. Researchers from the University of Montana showed that bacopa regulated serotonin supply in animal studies, though studies on humans are needed to verify those results. According to "Nutraceuticals World," bacopa has demonstrated antidepressant effects similar to those of imipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant. The use of bacopa is not a substitute for qualified medical advice and treatment.