In the United States, between 13 and 14 million people experience some form of depressive disorder every year, only 20 percent of whom receive adequate treatment. Ninety-seven percent of people suffering from depression feel that their home life, relationships and work suffer as a result. Many herbal practitioners recommend licorice as a treatment for depression.
Depression
Feelings of sadness happen to everyone from time to time; usually they pass within a day or to. When these feelings last longer, it might be a sign of depression. Depression interferes with your daily life. It makes it hard to function and carry out your normal routines. Depression can affect both men and women, though more women than men are affected each year.
Forms of Depression
There are different forms of depression, such as major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, psychotic depression and seasonal affective disorder. Many people suffering from depression seek treatment. If you are looking for an alternative treatment for depression, you might want to consider licorice, but consult your physician before taking licorice for depression or before you stop taking prescription medication for this disorder.
Licorice
Licorice root, Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a perennial plant native to southern Europe and Asia. It produces long seed pods and can grow up to 3 feet in height. Licorice has been used in folk medicine for centuries to treat ailments including depression. One way in which it might indirectly help this disorder is with its glycyrrhizin content. Glycyrrhizin is a compound that prevents the break down of cortisol, the hormone that helps the body cope with stress. Licorice also contains isoflavene and isoflavan, natural serotonin reuptake inhibitors. This also might help to alleviate symptoms of mild depression.
Cautions
Licorice comes in many forms: powder, lozenge, capsule, extract, tea and dried root. Common side effects include abdominal pain, water retention, shortness of breath, headache and stiffness. You should not take licorice if you suffer from hypertension, kidney disease or osteoporosis, or if you are pregnant or nursing. Use of licorice for longer than four to six weeks might lead to elevated blood pressure, low calcium and potassium and water and sodium retention.
