Bipolar disorders, also known as manic-depressive conditions, affect both men and women and are characterized by episodes of mania and depression. Conventional treatment includes drugs that help stabilize the mood and psychotherapy. Some natural herbs and vitamins may help improve symptoms of bipolar disorder, however, more research is needed to confirm their efficacy. Therefore, they do not replace any drugs you are currently taking for your condition. Talk to you health care provider before beginning any supplements.
Flax
Flax, scientifically known as Linum usitatissum, is a herb native to Asia, but currently cultivated worldwide. Flax seeds contain a large amount of omega 3 fatty acids, which are essential to optimal health of the brain, heart, joints and digestive system, according to Steven Foster, co-author of National Geographic " Desk Reference for Nature's Medicine", who also estimates that around 80 percent of Americans are deficient in omega 3 fatty acids.
Flax oil may reduce severity of bipolar disease in children and adolescents who have abnormal levels of essential fatty acids, notes BL.Gracious from Laboratory for Mood Disorders in Children and Adolescents, Rochester, US, based on a study published in March 2010 issue of "Bipolar Disorders". However, more research is needed to fully evaluate the efficacy of flax seed supplements for manic-depressive diseases.
Soy Bean Extracts
Phosphatidilcholine is a component of the membrane that surrounds all cells of the body. The supplement phosphatidilcholine is derived from soybeans and is commonly used by alternative healthcare practitioners for brain and liver conditions. Based on a review of research studies, phosphatidilcholine supplementation with 15 to 30 g daily has shown good results in the treatment of bipolar disorders and also has an excellent safety profile, according to Michael Murray, ND, author of "The Pill Book Guide to Natural Medicines".
Folic Acid
Folate or folic acid is a nutrient in the vitamins group that plays an important role in the optimal function of the nervous system. Folic acid is routinely recommended for pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects in babies.
In a research study using animal models, folic acid had anti-manic effects comparable with lithium chloride, a standard drug used in manic-depressive disorders. The study was conducted by PS. Brocardo and associates and published in June 2010 issue of "Bipolar Disorders". Larger studies in humans are necessary to evaluate these clinical findings.
Considerations
If you suffer from bipolar disorder, consult a qualified healthcare professional to find out if you may benefit from supplements such as flax seed, folate or phosphatidilcholine, as well as optimal dosage, possible side effects and drug interactions.
References
- Bipolar Disorders: Randomized, placebo-controlled trial of flax oil in pediatric bipolar disorder.
- Bipolar Disorders: Folic acid administration prevents ouabain-induced hyperlocomotion and alterations in oxidative stress markers in the rat brain.
- "National Geographic: Desk Reference for Nature's Medicine"; Steven Foster et al; 2006
- "The Pill Book Guide To Natural Medicine"; Michael Murray, ND; 2002
