Depression is a mental illness that causes a person to feel sad, frustrated, worried, or angry most or all of the time. Although the exact cause of depression is unknown, it may be triggered by factors including nutritional deficiencies, stress, or social isolation. It could also have a genetic basis. If you are suffering from depression, your doctor may suggest you undertake some form of psychotherapy or take antidepressant drugs. The herb, ashwagandha, may help relieve symptoms, although there is little evidence to prove it works. Talk to your doctor before taking herbal supplements for depression.
Properties and Administration
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments including diabetes, gastrointestinal disease and stress. It contains several active compounds including alkaloids, steroidal lactones and saponins, which may may help calm the brain. Ashwagandha may be taken as tea or in capsules or tablets. RxList that the appropriate dose of ashwagandha may depend on your age and overall health. Read the label carefully and get medical advice on the correct amount to take.
Effectiveness
Human studies examining the role of ashwagandha in the treatment of depression are lacking. Early research by S.K. Bhattacharya and colleagues, published in the December 2000 issue of "Phytomedicine," found that its antidepressant effects were comparable with the prescription drug, imipramine. As such, the authors conclude that ashwagandha may be an effective mood-stabilizer. Subsequent research by G.L. Gupta and A.C. Rana, published in October 2007 in the "Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology," also found that ashwagandha conferred antidepressant effects. However, both studies were carried out in rats. The effect of ashwagandha on depression in humans remains unclear.
Side Effects and Contraindications
RxList notes that short-term ashwagandha use is probably safe, but adds that its long-term safety is unclear. Taking large doses of may cause side effects such as diarrhea and vomiting. Don't use ashwagandha if you have a stomach ulcer, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also avoid this herb if you have an auto-immune disorder. It may interact with other drugs that you are taking including benzodiazepines, immunosuppressants and thyroid medications. Check with your doctor that it is safe for you to take ashwagandha.
Other Herbal Help
Other herbs that may help alleviate depression, include St. John's wort and ginkgo biloba. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that St. John's wort has been studied extensively and that most findings indicate it is an effective antidepressant. Ginkgo biloba is primarily used to treat "thinking disorders" like dementia, but it may help the brain to better respond to the "feel-good" brain chemical, serotonin. Like ashwagandha, both these herbs may cause side effects or could be unsuitable for you. Consult your doctor before taking either of them.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Depression
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Ashwagandha
- RxList: Ashwagandha
- PubMed.gov: Anxiolytic-Antidepressant Activity of Withania somnifera Glycowithanolides: An Experimental Study; S.K. Bhattacharya et al; December 2010
- PubMed.gov; Protective Effect of Withania somnifera Dunal Root Extract Against Protracted Social Isolation Induced Behavior in Rats; G.L. Gupta and A.C. Rana; October 2007
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