5 Herbs For Treating Depression

According to popular wisdom, people have used herbs since antiquity to treat depression or, rather, to relieve suffering and emotional tension.

Although they cannot replace drug treatments, their use seems to improve mood in some people, helping the body to relax and fall asleep.

Medicinal plants for the treatment of depression

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved numerous medications to treat depression in recent years. But they are not necessary in all cases. Therefore, priority should initially be given to medical consultations.

But there are herbs whose properties can relieve the symptoms of depression. Although not a first-line treatment, some studies support their use as adjuvants to improve rest and mood.

But be careful! Although they are natural products, these plants can cause interactions and side effects. In some cases they may even be contraindicated. Thus, before opting for a certain medicinal plant, it is advisable to document it.

Now that you have all this information, discover below the herbs useful in treating depression or, rather, in maximizing general well-being. Use them carefully, following the consumption recommendations.

1. St. John’s wort

Of all the herbs, St. John’s wort is one of the most popular when it comes to treating depression. Some studies suggest that it is also effective against anxiety.

St. John’s wort consumption apparently increases the secretion of serotonin, a chemical associated with well-being. A systematic review published in Cochrane claims that this plant may be useful in cases of minor or moderate depression.

It is good to remember that St. John’s wort should only be used in completely natural treatments. In other words, it is not advisable to combine this plant with antidepressant drugs.

ingredients

• 1 cup (250 ml) water
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) of St. John’s wort

Way of ussage

• Heat the water. After boiling, add the St. John’s wort and let the mixture stand for 5 minutes before consuming the tea.
• Drink 3 cups a day.

Remember that the effects only appear after about 3 weeks. Natural treatments are very effective, but they have a harder effect.

2. The poppy

Poppy is also on the list of herbs for treating depression. Due to its rich alkaloid content, its main active component, this plant helps relieve anxiety and moderate depression,  according to a study published in Biochemistry Research International .

The poppy can be eaten without problems, except during pregnancy and lactation.

ingredients

• 1 tablespoon (10 g) of poppy flowers
• 1 cup (250 ml) water

Method of preparation

• Make a tea and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Drink 3 cups a day. Do not forget that this is also a treatment that works over time.

3. Angelica

Angelica is included in the group of herbs for treating severe depression. In fact, a study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine mentions its antidepressant effect.

This remedy has strong effects due to its sedative properties. Among other things, angelica relieves anxiety, insomnia and even lack of appetite which is a symptom of severe depression.

• This treatment is not recommended for children under 6 years of age due to the strong effect of its active compounds.
• It is important that angelica does not come in contact with the skin as it can cause dermatitis.

ingredients

• 1 teaspoon (5 g) of angelica flowers
• 1 cup (250 ml) water

Way of ussage

• Make angelica tea with a teaspoon of flowers in a cup of boiling water and let the plant infuse for 5 minutes.
• Drink 3 cups a day before meals, and you will see results one week after starting treatment.

4. Valerian

Valerian is one of the most popular herbs for depression.

After the discovery of its medicinal properties, valerian was mainly used to treat spasms. Over time, however, its sedative effect was also observed. Valerian is currently used to treat insomnia and relieve depression.

Moreover, a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine suggests that it may be effective against the emotional symptoms of PMS.

ingredients

• 1 tablespoon (10 g) of valerian
• 1 cup (250 ml) water

Way of ussage

To prepare this tea, you need the whole plant, including the root, this being the part where the antidepressant properties of valerian are concentrated.

• Add a tablespoon of the plant to a cup of boiling water and let the mixture set aside for 5 minutes.
• It is recommended to drink 3 cups a day. Be patient, the effects will be visible in a few days.

5. Ginseng

Ginseng is a natural stimulant that can be helpful against depression. It has an invigorating effect on the brain, helps to relax and, as a result, fights anxiety, depression and loss of appetite.

Research published in the Journal of Ginseng Research indicates that this plant can help relieve depression caused by constant stress and anxiety.

Some possible side effects of ginseng are nervousness and hypertension, but they usually only occur when the recommended dose is exceeded.

ingredients

• 1/4 teaspoon (1.2 g) ginseng
• 1 cup (250 ml) water

Way of ussage

• Heat the water and add 1 g of ginseng.
• Bring the mixture to a boil for 3 minutes, then set aside for another 5 minutes.
• Drink one cup in the morning because ginseng tea has a stronger effect in this part of the day.

conclusions

In conclusion, some herbs can help you reduce the symptoms of depression. But in order for them to be more useful, you need to change your lifestyle, go out, play a sport and monitor your sleep and diet.

Last but not least, keep in mind that it is advisable to consult a psychologist or health specialist. No herbal supplement can replace medical treatment. Take this into account!