Depression is defined by the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, as a mood disorder involving feelings of loss, anger and sadness that disrupts daily life. About 18 million Americans are affected by depression each year. All herbal remedies should be used under medical supervision. Consult your doctor before using them.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh herb is widely used to treat menopausal symptoms, including mood disturbances according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. One study published in the medical journal "Menopause" found that black cohosh significantly reduced depression and anxiety in all of the reviewed trials. They concluded that black cohosh, along with St. John's Wort, appear to be the most useful for relieving mood and anxiety changes during menopause. There is concern about using this herb if there is a risk of breast cancer, however.
St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort is an herb that contains two active components that may have antidepressant effects. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians,or AAFP, St. John's Wort acts on the chemicals in the brain that cause depression. The AAFP lists eleven studies done on St. John's Wort as compared to a placebo. They concluded that St. John's Wort is recommended as a safe and effective treatment for mild depression, but not for major or severe depression.
5-HTP
5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP, is obtained from the seeds of an African plant. These supplements help raise levels of serotonin, a chemical in the brain which regulates mood. This herb works in a similar way as some prescription antidepressants. The "Cochrane Database Systematic Reviews" journal published a study that found that a 5-HTP supplement was better than a placebo for alleviating depression. The journal stated that further studies are needed to evaluate its safety.
Lavender
Lavender is an herb that grows abundantly; the essential oil is extracted from its flowers and is used for medicinal purposes. The UMMC states that aromatherapy, or using this essential oil in massage therapy, may be a supplemental treatment for depression. A Korean journal published a study in 2006 and concluded that lavender fragrance had a beneficial effect on insomnia and depression in female college students. A Japanese study reported that lavender aroma significantly reduced anxiety levels in dialysis patients.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Depression
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Black Cohosh
- PubMed.gov: Botanical and Dietary Supplements for Mood and Anxiety in Menopausal Women, SE Geller et al; May-Jun 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: 5-Hydroxytryptophan
- PubMed.gov: Tryptophan and 5-Hydroxytryptophan for Depression. K Shaw et al; 2001
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lavender
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