Photo by Inzmam Khan.

7 Herbal supplements used to treat depression

Over the years, humans have found some herbal supplements helpful in addressing depression. This is a severe ailment that affects a lot of people. More than 40 million people suffer from depression worldwide. According to studies, many things and body processes influence depression. As a result, oxidative stress, inflammation, and others set the stage for depression.

These herbal supplements could be taken alongside other antidepressant medications or alone. It is an excellent call to get depression before it graduates to another unpalatable health issue. This article will explore various herbal supplements that can lift you away from depression.

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Herbal supplements to treat depression

Kratom

Kratom is a powerful herb that has been proven to help mental health in many ways. This plant is native to Southeast Asian countries. It is rich in various alkaloids that support mental health.

People who have used kratom have reported significant mood elevation. As a result, it can automatically fight depression in users. Kratom will trigger users’ positive state of mind, bringing a positive attitude.

When consumed, kratom delivers an effect similar to opioids. It can be consumed in many ways – tea, leaves, or as a supplement. The mitragynine in it binds with the opioid receptors of the brain, which helps regulate mood. While there are many varieties of kratom, white dragon kratom stands out for its mood-lifting properties. You can read the white dragon kratom powder review here.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega 3 fatty acids are part of the essential building block for fats and lipids in the body. They also stand out as an integral component of the cell membrane. According to some studies, omega three fatty acids tend to relieve depressive symptoms in everyone – adults and kids.

Based on a 2008 review of clinical trials involving omega-3 fatty acids, it was discovered that these compounds might help relieve symptoms associated with depression.

Omega-3 supplements are a healthy addition to the diet, especially for those who lack fatty fish in their meals. The body tolerates them well, and there are no severe side effects from omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to omega-3, supplements like L-glutamine can also support overall health, helping with gut function and muscle recovery, and potentially countering issues like depression.

Lavender oil

This is a popular essential oil that many people are familiar with. It finds application in aromatherapy as people use it to induce relaxation, improve mood and reduce anxiety.

According to studies, lavender can improve anxiety, making sleep easy for people. According to research, lavender might relieve the physical and psychological symptoms associated with depression. Based on a 2016 study, lavender improved the sleep cycle of a college student with sleep disturbance that could be traced to depression.

Folate

Folate is a type of Vitamin B that is essential for neurological functioning. This compound might help break down a specific amino acid called homocysteine that is primal in the generation of SAM-e. Many foods contain veggies, especially fruits, eggs, grains, dairy products, and green veggies.

Many studies have been conducted which showed the link between depression and folate deficiency. A 2005 study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology advised that folic acid might help reduce depressive symptoms. However, more research is essential to determine its effectiveness, alongside the best dosage to manage depression.

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Vitamin D

This essential nutrient performs a series of functions in the body. However, many people lack the D vitamin, which manifests in many ways, including depression.

According to research, people living with depression will likely be deficient in Vitamin D. Such people tend to have lower Vitamin D levels, and they deal with the most significant depressive symptoms, according to research.

Vitamin D can handle depression in many ways. According to studies, it helps reduce inflammation, improve mood, and keep the neurocognitive function intact. A 2020 study of people with depression who were deficient in Vitamin D discovered that they had improved symptoms after receiving an injection of 300,000 IU of Vitamin D plus their standard treatment.

However, more evidence and studies are required before Vitamin D can be recommended as a universal treatment to address depression, based on research.

Vitamin B

Some evidence suggests that B vitamins fall under herbal supplements that can also help with depression. This is not surprising as Vitamin B is in charge of producing vital brain chemicals that affect depression and mood regulation.

Neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, GABA, etc., require folate, B9, B12, and B6 for optimum production. According to studies, deficiency in these vitamins might set the foundation for depression.

Vitamin B12 might reduce depression and its associated symptoms in people.

Ginseng

This supplement can be traced to the gnarled root of the Asian Ginseng plant. For thousands of years, Chinese medicine practitioners have used Ginseng to help improve people’s mental health and reduce the side effects of stress.

Ginseng comes with properties that can relieve low energy and equip people with the needed motivation to beat depression.

It can regulate the immune response alongside any hormonal change due to stress, which helps maintain homeostasis. Ginseng can also reduce the tendency of psychological issues and all illnesses associated with anxiety and depression.

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Description

Non-GMO
Dietary Supplement
Panax Ginseng
550 mg Per Capsules
Whole Root
Lab Verified

Discussion: Korean ginseng, also known as panax ginseng, has a long history of use in herbal medicine. It is highly regarded in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its adaptogenic properties. Adaptogens are a unique class of herbs that support the body’s ability to adapt to physical and mental stress. Studies suggest that Korean ginseng may provide support for energy and physical endurance.

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Conclusion

Depression can be limiting and reduce life expectancy for many. As a result, one needs to consider helpful ways to manage depression. Herbal supplements are safe and come with no severe side effects. Ensure to consult your doctor if you are on any medication before using the recommended supplements in this article.

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