Alternative Therapies

Depression disturbs the rhythmic pace of our life. Depletion in the level of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, acetylcholine and norepinephrine causes depression. Antidepressants act by increasing the level of these neurotransmitters especially serotonin. Natural remedies have proved to be very helpful in curing depression.

• The herb St. John’s-wort is considered to be more powerful antidepressant than some pharmaceutical drugs such as amitriptyline (Elavil) and imiprimine (Tofranil). It has been used for generations as an anxiety and stress relieving herb. It is due to the presence of an active compound called hypericin that causes a change in anxiety and depression levels. St. John’s-wort also improves the quality of sleep. Make tea using 2 teaspoons of the herb by boiling it for 10 minutes. Take two cups of tea every day for a month. The advantage of St. John’s wort is that this herb has very few side-effects.
• Licorice is also very powerful anti-depressant that contains compounds with high anti-depressant potentials. Three cups of tea in a day will easily relieve you from stress and anxiety.
• Boil two cups of water with one teaspoon each of rosemary and sage. Drink the tea daily.
• Ginger is an excellent remedy for depression. You can take ginger along with other herbal anti-depressants.
• The neurotransmitter tryptophan which is found naturally in certain food items we eat, acts as antidepressant. Tofu, soy products, walnut, pumpkin seeds are all rich sources of tryptophan.

If you are taking any other medicine prescribed by your doctor, then before starting off with herbal remedies, it is mandatory to get your doctor’s opinion.