Bipolar disorder triggers manic and depressive mood swings, sometimes when you least expect them. If your mood swings are affecting your daily life and relationships, you may need to seek further treatment. Some herbs can help stabilize your mood by either elevating or calming your frame of mind. If you wish to try herbal treatments for bipolar disorder, talk with your doctor before you take them because they are not replacements for medications and should be closely monitored.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort has historically been used as medicine by cultures such as the ancient Greek society for various nervous disorders. St. John's wort may help alleviate the low mood swings associated with bipolar disorder. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that research suggests St. John's wort provides chemicals such as hypericin, hyperforin and flavonoids that act similarly to SSRIs, or common antidepressants, by making certain brain chemicals--including serotonin and dopamine--more available in your brain. These brain chemicals directly affect mood and increasing them generally raises your state of mind. St. John's wort has less side effects that most antidepressants. However, it can lead to mania, so have your intake closely monitored by a doctor.
Black Cohosh
Native Americans found that the root of the black cohosh plant aided the relief of menstrual and menopausal symptoms, including cramps, hot flashes, problems sleeping, irritability and mood swings, according to UMMC. Black cohosh represses the nervous system and acts as a sedative, according to Jim Haggerty M.D., contributor to the Psych Central website. This herb can help calm manic moods and anxiety associated with bipolar disorder.
Ginkgo Biloba Oil
Ginkgo biloba oil is distilled from ginkgo tree leaves, found in China and other Asian countries. It is often prescribed as a treatment for dementia in Germany. This herb is most commonly used to improve memory. However, it may also help stimulate blood flow to your brain, which improves absorption of nutrients, vitamins and oxygen. This may help alleviate symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, according to Haggerty.
Warning
Although herbal remedies are natural, some still pose potential side effects and risks. Many negatively interact with antidepressant medications such as St. John's wort. UMMC states that black cohosh has been associated with side effects including stomach pain, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, joint pain, slow heart rate, nausea, tremors, vomiting and weight gain. You should not take ginkgo biloba oil if you take prescription blood thinners or have a blood-clotting condition. Make sure to only take herbs to treat bipolar disorder if your doctor advises them and to have your intake closely monitored to prevent possible interactions and risks.
