Researchers who test the efficacy of even the most potent prescription antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs are looking for improvement in a significant number of patients, but not all patients are expected to benefit. The same principle applies to natural supplements and herbs. The ones that "work" may benefit many people, but there is no telling whether they will work for you. Consult a qualified health care provider when considering the use of natural supplements or herbs.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are natural substances found in the body. They are essential nutrients, meaning that they must be replenished through dietary means. The working surface of the brain consists largely of fatty acids. According to the Franklin Institute, a lack of omega-3 fatty acids in the body has been shown to correlate with symptom severity in depressed patients. Communities that traditionally consume significant quantities of fish, an especially rich omega-3 source, tend to have lower rates of depression. You can replenish the omega-3s in your body by consuming fish twice weekly, as recommended by the American Heart Association, or by taking fish oil supplements. Use fish oil and other supplements under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Kava
The use of kava is for ceremonial rather than health purposes in its region of origin, the Pacific islands. In indigenous Pacific islander culture, participants in gatherings, ceremonies and religious occasions would use kava to promote conviviality and relaxation. According to the Association of Natural Medicine Pharmacists, two double-blind studies comparing kava with benzodiazepines, a class of prescription anxiety drug, found them equal in their effects. Kava does appear to work, but some studies have indicated it may cause liver problems, the University of Maryland Medical Center states. Consult your physician before adding kava to your daily regimen.
St. John's Wort
Herbalists have been recommending St. John's wort for nervous disorders since the time of the ancient Greeks. Scientific studies suggest that this shrubby, yellow-flowered herb works just as well as tricyclic antidepressant drugs in alleviating mild-to-moderate depression, according to MayoClinic.com. While St. John's wort is generally well-tolerated at recommended doses, side effects have been reported in up to 3 percent of patients who use it. These include gastrointestinal distress, dermatological reactions, dizziness, dry mouth, headache and rarely an exacerbation of psychiatric symptoms. To ensure your safety, discuss using St. John's wort with your doctor.
Passionflower
Known also as apricot vine, maypop, passion vine and corona de cristo, passionflower is commonly used for anxiety, sleeplessness, epilepsy and nerve pain. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, the active components of passionflower may cause the activation of GABA receptors, resulting in relaxation and the alleviation of anxiety. A small pilot study found that in patients with generalized anxiety disorder, passionflower worked as well as oxazepam, a prescription anti-anxiety medicine. More studies are required to assess its safety and effectiveness. Talk to your doctor before using passionflower to treat any medical condition.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Kava Kava
- Association of Natural Medicine Pharmacists: Comparing the Studies of Kava With Conventional Treatments
- Franklin Institute: The Human Brain: Nourish: Fats
- MayoClinic.com: St. John's Wort (Hypericum Perforatum L.)
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Passionflower
