Seasonal affective disorder is a condition that causes bouts of depression during fall or winter. Seasonal affective disorder, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, often first manifests during adolescent or early adult years. This condition is more commonly seen in women than men. Herbal remedies may be a beneficial adjunct therapy in treating seasonal affective disorder, although you should always exercise caution when using herbs. Speak with your doctor about taking herbs for any medical condition.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal affective disorder causes several characteristic symptoms. If you develop seasonal affective disorder, you may experience low mood, reduced interest in pleasurable things, decreased desire to engage in physical activity, weight gain and increased sleep. Although the exact cause of seasonal affective disorder is unknown, it is believed that ambient light, body temperature and hormone regulation may play a role in its onset.
Helpful Herbs
Herbal remedies are often prescribed in treating seasonal affective disorder, although the use of herbs -- and other dietary supplements -- for this condition may require further scientific study to determine their true effectiveness. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that St. John's wort might be helpful for this condition. Other helpful herbal remedies for seasonal affective disorder may include lemon balm, Siberian ginseng, oat straw and kava kava. Melatonin and vitamin D are non-herbal supplements that are commonly used in treating this condition.
Herb in Focus
St. John's wort is an herbal remedy that has historically been used in treating numerous health problems, including seasonal affective disorder and other types of depression. According to naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert Michael T. Murray, author of "The Healing Power of Herbs," the three principal uses of St. John's wort include depression, sleep disorders and viral infections. St. John's wort has shown to be in treating anxiety, apathy, insomnia and feelings of worthlessness. Talk to your doctor before taking St. John's wort to ensure your safety.
Warning
If your seasonal affective disorder is left untreated, it may self-resolve over time or progress to a major depressive disorder. If you suffer from seasonal affective disorder, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss appropriate treatments or therapies. Your physician, especially if she is knowledgeable about botanical medicine, can counsel you on what herbs may best treat your condition. Some herbal remedies may exert strong effects within your body or cause unwanted health effects.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Seasonal Affective Disorder
- National Health Service: Seasonal Affective Disorder
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herbs and Supplements for Seasonal Affective Disorder
- "The Healing Power of Herbs"; Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 1995
