Herbs That Increase Serotonin

Serotonin is a chemical produced by the brain that plays a role in depression and the susceptibility to depression. Low levels of serotonin can result in a depressive state that can produce changes in the nervous system, moods, thoughts and behavior. Symptoms and severity of depression can vary, and episodes may be short-term or can become a chronic condition requiring long-term treatment. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that depression affects 18 million Americans a year.

Serotonin Levels

A study published in the "Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience" in Nov. 2007 reports that there is a correlation between normal serotonin levels and normal moods. Lower serotonin function is associated with more negative emotions and may also affect physical health and social behavior. Increasing serotonin levels may help protect against mental and physical disorders. Pharmaceutical medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are often considered a first course of treatment to increase serotonin levels. It can take time for these medications to take their full effect, and some can have adverse side effects, such as weight gain, fatigue and sexual dysfunction.

St. John's Wort

St. John's wort, an herb used for centuries to treat a variety of nervous disorders, may help treat mild-to-moderate depression. St. John's wort works similarly to anti-depressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which boost levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin, but with fewer side effects. St. John's wort has shown similar results to prescription-brand anti-depressants such as Prozac, Celexa and Zoloft. It may take one to two months to feel the full effects of St. John's wort. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends a dose of 300 mg two to three times per day to treat mild-to-moderate depression. This herb interacts with many medications, such as birth control pills, and you should not use it before talking to your health care provider.

Ginkgo Biloba

The ginkgo tree is the oldest living tree species. The leaves and seeds have been used medicinally for thousands of years. Ginkgo biloba, often used to treat memory problems in adults, may help reduce symptoms of depression. Initial laboratory research in rats showed an increase in the number of serotonin-binding sites in the brain, which may increase the amount of serotonin released in the brain. Additional clinical research on humans is needed. Ginkgo may interact with anti-depressants, blood pressure medication, blood thinners and medications used to control blood sugar levels. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends a dose of 40 to 80 mg three times daily for mild depression.

Kava Kava

The roots of the kava kava shrub are used medicinally to treat nervous disorders and anxiety. Kava kava is used to calm the body and bring on feelings of relaxation, and it may help relieve symptoms of depression. Kava can help elevate the mood and produce feelings of well-being and contentment. It may take up to a month before the full effects of kava are felt. Kava may cause drowsiness and should not be taken with other anti-depressants or sleeping medications. Kava kava may cause liver damage when taken in high doses for prolonged periods of time. Consult your doctor for recommended dosing before taking this herb.