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Herbal Remedies to Schizophrenia

Jun 25, 2011 | By Kimberly Riggins

Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that affects approximately 1 percent of the U.S. population. This disorder is marked by the inability to recognize the difference between what is real and unreal, to think logically, to have normal emotional responses, and to behave appropriately in social settings. This can lead to catatonic behavior, delusions and hallucinations. The most common form of treatment is anti-psychotic medication. There is also some evidence that herbs may be helpful in treating schizophrenic symptoms. However, before using any herb, consult a doctor.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is an ayurvedic herb that may be used to alleviate stress and fatigue, two symptoms schizophrenics suffer from. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, ashwagandha does have a tranquilizing effect which may be beneficial to a schizophrenic but those studies have only been done using animals. Human trials should be done to prove this claim. It is imperative that before using ashwagandha for schizophrenia, a doctor is consulted. Using ashwagandha while pregnant could induce abortion and taking this herb while using sedatives could increase that medication's effects.

Passionflower

Passionflower, or Passiflora incarnata, is considered a calming herb that helps treat anxiety, insomnia and hysteria, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Passionflower has the ability to increase the level of a chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA. This allows the body and mind to feel more relaxed, which could prove to be helpful for schizophrenics. Passionflower does interact with some medication including sedatives, antidepressants and anti-psychotics and therefore, should be only used with the approval of a physician.

Ginkgo Biloba

Gingko biloba is an herb known to improve memory, elevate mood, and increase energy. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, people who use gingko biloba have shown improvements in cognitive function, in social behavior, and have fewer feelings of depression. Since gingko biloba is also high in antioxidants and it is believed that antioxidants play a role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, this herb may be a helpful treatment to use in conjunction with anti-psychotic drugs. In a study published in the March 2010 issue of "The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology," clinicians found that gingko biloba is an effective add-on therapy to anti-psychotic medication for schizophrenia. It appears that using gingko, alongside anti-psychotics, can ameliorate the symptoms of chronic schizophrenia.

Golden Root

Golden root, medicinally known as Rhodiola rosea, may be beneficial in treating mild to moderate depression and mental fatigue. In a study published in the 2007 issue of the "Nordic Journal of Psychiatry," researchers confirmed that golden root does have potential anti-depressive effects compared with a placebo, as measured on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale as well as the Beck Depression Inventory. Since schizophrenics often suffer bouts of depression, this herb may be used as an adjunct treatment. Consulting a doctor before incorporating it into your treatment plan is highly recommended.

References

Article reviewed by Tad Cronn Last updated on: Jun 25, 2011

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