Most prescription antidepressants work by increasing the circulation of certain neurotransmitters in your brain, usually serotonin, dopamine, noradrenalin or adrenalin. Different types of prescription antidepressants target different neurotransmitters. Herbs and supplements work in the same way, so there is no one herb or supplement that is going to help everyone who suffers from depression. You need to find out which neurotransmitter imbalance is the primary cause of your depression and then supplement accordingly. Always consult your physician before using any alternative remedy to treat a serious health condition like depression.
5-HTP
5-HTP, or 5-Hydroxytryptophan, is a supplement derived from the African plant griffonia, and it is a well known antidepressant supplement. If you experience depression along with anxiety and insomnia, 5-HTP may help. According to Patrick Holford in his book "New Optimum Nutrition for the Mind," a double-blind placebo controlled experiment found that 5-HTP outperformed SSRI antidepressants and worked equally as well as tricyclic antidepressants, with fewer side effects. 5-HTP works similarly to SSRI antidepressant drugs by targeting the serotonin, which is the "happy" neurotransmitter, in your brain and increasing its circulation. Do not take 5-HTP if you are currently taking an SSRI, because it might cause an overload of serotonin.
Supplementing with 5-HTP
If your health care practitioner recommends 5--HTP, take it on a relatively empty stomach, along with a small serving of a high-carbohydrate food for maximum absorption. Holford says that if you feel extremely tired after taking 5-HTP, this may be a sign that you do not need 5-HTP, and another supplement can be more beneficial for you.
Tyrosine
Tyrosine is another supplement that has been used for depression. It targets the neurotransmitters dopamine, adrenalin and noradrenalin. If you are experiencing a lack of motivation and energy, or you experience ongoing high stress levels along with your depression, then tyrosine may help. Tyrosine supplementation has been found to be an effective mood booster while also improving the mental and physical performance of individuals under stress.
St. Johns Wort
St Johns Wort is made from the yellow flowered tops of a perennial herb. It is likely the most widely known herb used for the treatment of depression. According to the academic journal "Consultant," St. Johns Wort is commonly referred to as "natural Prozac," and it may be helpful if you experience chronic low to moderate depression. Scientist do not know for sure which neurotransmitters St. Johns Wort targets, however, it is suspected that the herb targets serotonin and norepinephrine, says "Consultant."
Ginko Biloba
Ginko biloba is another herb that has been used to alleviate depression. According to Holford, it increases blood flow to the brain. Studies have found it can improve memory, concentration, energy and mood, as well as reduce anxiety. If you are depressed and over the age of 60, Ginko may be particularly helpful to you. Holford explains that Ginko has been shown to increase serotonin receptors in the elderly, and it may prevent an age-related loss of these receptors.
Considerations
There are many other supplements that preliminary evidence has shown to be effective in the treatment of depression. Holford says that omega-3s, B-complex, GABA, zinc, chromium, calcium/magnesium, SAMe and even vitamin C supplements have been indicated as useful for the treatment of depression. Supplements are not without side effects, however, and can be toxic if taken incorrectly. Consult your doctor to help you choose the supplement that will work best for you and ensure that you are supplementing safely.
References
- "New Optimum Nutrition For The Mind;" Patrick Holford; 2009
- "Consultant;" Five Herbs for Depression, Anxiety, and Sleep Disorders: Uses, Benefits, and Adverse Effects. Michael Zal; Dec 1999
