Herbal Remedies For Bi-polar & Depression

Bipolar mood disorder and depression are two unique and independent health problems, although these conditions can occur simultaneously. Bipolar mood disorder is a condition in which you experience alternating periods of elevated mood and bouts of depression, whereas depression is a mood disorder associated with prolonged feelings of sadness, anger or frustration. Herbal remedies have long been used in treating these health problems, but you should always clear the use of herbs with your doctor before using them.

Bipolar and Depression Defined

There are three principle types of bipolar disorder: I, II and cyclothymia. To have bipolar disorder type I, you must have experienced at least one bout of mania with periods of major depression. Bipolar disorder II is characterized by alternating bouts of hypomania and depression. Cyclothymia is the least severe type of bipolar disorder. The several types of depression include major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, psychotic depression, postpartum depression and seasonal affective disorder.

Appropriate Herbal Remedies

Several herbal remedies may be helpful in treating your bipolar mood disorder and depression, although the research evidence proving these herbs' health benefits may currently be lacking. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," ginger, licorice root, St. John's wort, kava kava, ginkgo, peppermint and oat straw are used to treat these disorders. Other beneficial herbal remedies for these health problems include lemon balm and Siberian ginseng. Taurine, tyrosine and zinc are nonherbal remedies that may be helpful in treating bipolar mood disorder.

Highlighted Herb

Tyrosine may be a commonly used dietary supplement in the treatment of bipolar mood disorder and depression. Tyrosine, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center, is an amino acid and a building block for several neurotransmitters, or substances that allow nerve cells to communicate and affect your mood. Tyrosine has historically been used for numerous health purposes, including stabilizing your mood swings and treating depression, phenylketonuria, stress and sleep deprivation.

Warning

Bipolar mood disorder and depressive disorders are serious health problems that require the assistance of a qualified healthcare professional. If you suffer from these conditions, discuss all possible treatment strategies with your physician. A healthcare professional specializing in botanical medicine can counsel you on the most appropriate herbal remedies for you and your condition. Certain herbs may cause unwanted health effects in your body and should be taken with care.