Depression is a debilitating disorder that can affect people at any age. People with depression often have low mood, little or excessive appetite, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness and thoughts of suicide. Prescription antidepressants help maintain normal levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine--the neurotransmitters that carry messages about mood between nerve cells. Unfortunately, these medications often have unpleasant side effects. Herbs for depression, as teas, tinctures or oils, can be an effective alternative.
Damiana
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is an aromatic shrub with bright yellow flowers. It is a nerve tonic with a calming effect on the central nervous system. In their book "Medical Plants of the World," van Wyk and Wink state that in aromatherapy, damiana essential oil is used to elevate mood. Damiana is useful when anxiety accompanies depression. Do not take excessive doses of damiana or use it during pregnancy.
Hops
Hops (Humulus lupulus) is useful in treating the anxiety, insomnia and tension that often accompany depression. In his book, "Medical Herbalism: the Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine," herbalist David Hoffmann recommends hops for mild depression; however, persons experiencing significant depression should avoid hops because the sedative action might deepen the depression.
Kava
Kava (Piper methysticum) is a relaxing herb that is used to treat anxiety and depression. Kava can relieve muscle tension and insomnia, often associated with depression. Kava may enhance the effects of other sedative drugs or alcohol. Avoid kava if you have liver disease.
Ginseng
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a key plant in Asian medicine, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine. It is used as an adaptogen, an herb that works on the entire body to improve stamina and reduce stress and fatigue. Ginseng enhances mood and improves mental clarity.
Cola
Cola (Cola acuminata) is an evergreen tree with bitter seeds or nuts. The cola nut contains caffeine and theobromine, which are central nervous system stimulants. These chemicals can elevate mood and energy level, giving temporary relief from anxiety and depression.
Lavender
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is an aromatic herb with potent volatile oils. It is a popular herb for treating frayed nerves, insomnia and tension. Lavender tea combines well with chamomile as a relaxing remedy for headache and mild depression.
Linden
Linden (Tilia cordata), also known as lime or basswood, is a tree with sweet-smelling yellow-green flowers. The medicinal value of the linden tree is in the flowers, which contain flavonoids and volatile oils that have a relaxing effect on the nerves.
Oats
Oat (Avena sativa) is a popular herbal treatment for nervous exhaustion and depression. Oats can be taken as a tincture or eaten as a cereal. Oats in the bath are another way to calm the nerves.
Rosemary
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an aromatic herb used in cooking and traditional medicine. The volatile oil contains central nervous system stimulants like borneol and 1,8-cineole. According to Hoffmann, rosemary reduces psychological tension. Rosemary may interfere with iron absorption, so avoid it if you are anemic.
References
- "Medical Plants of the World;" Ben-Erik van Wyk and Michael Wink; 2009
- "Medical Herbalism: the Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine;" David Hoffmann; 2003
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