Home Remedies for Common Diseases

Home Remedies for Depression

Natural Home Remedies for Depression.

Everyone experiences grief and sadness times, just as we experience happiness and joy. Moods come and go, and cycles of
emotional and downs are a normal part of life. However, ongoing feelings of profound sadness that are accompanied by feelings
of hopelessness, fatigue, difficulty in concentrating, disturbed sleep and eating habits, and a loss of pleasure in activities that
you would normally find pleasurable are an indication of depression. The spectrum of depression ranges widely, from feeling
low to serious contemplation of suicide. Depression can be caused by a number of factors, but it is usually the result of either a
traumatic life event or an imbalance in brain chemistry.

The Causes of Depression.

Situational depression is triggered by a stressful life event such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness, ongoing
relationship problems, or job loss. Many women experience situational depression associated with midlife and the
myriad changes that accompany this life transition, such as menopause, children leaving home, relationship changes,
and the loss of youth. Obviously, deep sadness is a normal reaction to a major life loss or trauma. But after a period of
grieving, it is also normal to accept the loss and to begin to enjoy life again. Physically based depression is usually
caused by a biochemical disorder in the brain, and there is often a family history of depression, with the disorder
occurring at midlife or later. Depression can also have physiological causes such as hypoglycemia, hypothyroidism, and
hormonal imbalances triggered by PMS and menopause.

Depression is one of the most common emotional disorders. It may be manifested in varying degrees: from feelings of
slight sadness to utter misery and dejection.

Depression is a very unpleasant malady and is far more difficult to cope with man a physical ailment The growing
complexities of modern life and its resultant crises, as well as the mental stress and strain of day-to-day life, usually
leads to this disorder.

The most striking symptoms of depression are an acute sense of loss, inexplicable sadness, loss of energy, lack of
interest in the world around, and fatigue. A disturbed sleep is a frequent occurrence.

Other symptoms of depression are loss of appetite, giddiness, itching, nausea, agitation, irritability, impotence or
frigidity, constipation, aches and pains all over the body, lack of concentration, and indecisiveness. Cases of severe
depression may be characterized by low body temperature, low blood pressure, hot flushes, and shivering.

Prolonged periods of anxiety and tension can cause mental depression. The excessive and indiscriminate use of drugs
also leads to faulty assimilation of vitamins and minerals by the body and ultimately causes depression.

Antidepressants and Depression.

Antidepressants such as Prozac are commonly prescribed for treating depression, and while they are effective, they can
also cause unpleasant side effects such as anxiety, agitation, and digestive disturbances.

Antidepressants work by increasing levels of brain chemicals such as serotonin that have a natural mood-elevating and
tranquilizing effect. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, anxiety, irritability, and the inability to
concentrate, while high levels of serotonin are linked with feeling optimistic, calm, creative, patient, loving, and focused.
Antidepressant drugs are not the only solution for balancing brain chemistry, however. Diet, exercise, nutritional
supplements, and herbs are powerful tools for increasing levels of the natural mood-enhancing compounds that your
body makes and for restoring emotional balance. Many doctors are too quick to write prescriptions for antidepressant
drugs when lifestyle changes and natural remedies present a safer and healthier alternative. It is far better to avoid
drugs, especially in cases of mild to moderate depression, and to use natural therapies combined with appropriate
emotional work for healing the underlying psychological distress.

Nutritional Help for Depression.

What you eat has a powerful effect on your mood-in fact, psychological disturbances are one of the first symptoms of
nutrient deficiencies. Your brain requires an adequate and steady supply of nutrients and quickly shows signs of stress
when your diet is inadequate. Nerve cells in the brain communicate through chemicals called neurotransmitters, which
are dependent upon specific nutrients in the blood. Antidepressants work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters, but
you can also increase these mood-elevating substances with foods and nutritional supplements. For a strong nutritional
foundation that supplies your brain with the building blocks it needs for emotional well-being, eat a nutrient-dense,
whole-foods diet. Pay special attention to maintaining stable blood-sugar levels, because the brain and nervous system
are highly sensitive to blood-sugar fluctuations. Avoid sugar, caffeine, and alcohol, and eat small meals several times a
day centered around high-complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthful fats to ensure a steady supply of
nutrients that help to keep blood-sugar levels balanced. Protein-rich foods such as chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, eggs,
lentils, almonds, and yogurt are particularly important for overcoming depression because they are made up of amino
acids, which are the building blocks for mood-elevating neurotransmitters. Eat a small serving of protein-rich food at
each meal (approximately 8-10 ounces per day total) and snack on a few almonds, walnuts, or other raw nuts and
seeds a couple of times a day.

Essential fatty acids are another important nutrient for alleviating depression because they play a critical role in
maintaining healthy cell membranes, which are involved in the synthesis and transmission of neurotransmitters.
Depression is associated with low levels of essential fatty acids, particularly gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and omega-3
fatty acids. GLA is found in capsules of evening primrose, black currant, and borage oil. Take enough capsules to equal
between 120 and 240 milligrams of GLA daily. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in cold-water fish (salmon, mackerel,
sardines), flaxseeds, and walnuts. Take one tablespoon of flaxseed oil daily, and eat omega-3 rich fish two or three
times a week.

Since low levels of many nutrients are associated with depression, it's helpful to take a high-potency vitamin and
mineral supplement that contains 50 to 100 milligrams of the B-complex vitamins. Vitamin B-12 is especially important
for alleviating depression. Because it is not easily assimilated, use sublingual tablets of B12, which are dissolved under
the tongue and absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Take one milligram every other day.

Diet Help for Depression.

Home Remedies for Depression with Apple:
Apple is one of the most valuable remedies for mental depression. The various chemical substances present in this fruit
such as vitamin B, phosphorus, and potassium help the synthesis of glutamic acid, which controls the wear and tear of
nerve cells. The fruit should be taken with milk and honey. This remedy will act as a very effective nerve tonic and
recharge the nerves with new energy and life.

Natural Depression Cures using Cashew nut:
The cashew nut is another valuable remedy for general depression and nervous weakness. It is rich in vitamins of die B
group, especially thiamine, and is therefore useful in stimulating the appetite and the nervous system. It is also rich in
riboflavin which keeps the body active, cheerful, and energetic.

Home Remedies for Depression with Asparagus:
The root of asparagus has been found beneficial in the treatment of depression. It is highly nutritious and is used as a
herbal medicine for mental disorders. It is a good tonic for the brain and nerves. One or two grams of the powder of the
dry root of the plant can be taken once daily.

Cardamom Depression Remedies:
The use of cardamom has proved valuable in depression. Powdered seeds should be boiled in water and tea prepared in
the usual way. A very pleasing aroma is added to the tea, which can be used as a medicine in the treatment of this
condition.

Home Remedies for Depression using Rose:
An infusion of rose petals should be prepared by mixing 15 gm of rose petals in 250 ml of boiling water. If drunk
occasionally, instead of the usual tea and coffee, it is beneficial for treating this condition.

Natural Depression Cures using Vitamin B:
Diet has a profound effect on the mental health of a person. Even a single nutritional deficiency can cause depression in
susceptible people. Nutritional therapy builds up brain chemicals, such as serotonin and nor epinephrine, that affect the
mood and are often lacking in depressed people. Eating foods rich in vitamin B, such as whole grains, green vegetables,
eggs, and fish helps restore vitality and cheer in an individual.

Banish Depression with Exercise.

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools you have available for banishing depression. Regular daily exercise has been
proven to be as effective as antidepressant drugs for relieving mild to moderate depression, and in contrast to
pharmaceutical drugs, has only beneficial health-enhancing side effects. Aerobic exercise stimulates the release of
endorphins, the body's natural mood-elevating compounds. It also offers a healthy outlet for burning off feelings 01
anger and frustration and provides a sense of empowerment for coping with the challenges that life presents. The
minimum amount of exercise that is effective for relieving depression is approximately 30 minutes of activity five days a
week.

Early morning exercise seems to be most helpful for establishing a balanced and positive mood for the day, but exercise
is beneficial at any time. Try taking a brisk walk the next time you fee low; it is an immediate and effective way to
quickly shift your mood.

Natural Home Remedies for Depression.

An herbal strategy for relieving depression focuses not only on easing the depression, but also includes herbs that help
to restore balance to the endocrine and. nervous systems. Because depression is often accompanied by lack of energy
and insomnia, it is helpful to take energizing herbs such as ginseng in the morning and herbs that encourage restful
sleep such as passionflower and skullcap at night The following are the most helpful herbs for treating depression:

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) has become extremely popular in the past few years for easing
depression. It has been use for centuries to treat depression and has been proven to be as effective as pharmaceutical
antidepressants but without the negative side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and nausea. St. John's wort
also helps to relieve insomnia, which often accompanies depression For the most consistent results, take an extract of
St. John's wort standardized to contain 0.3 percent hypericin, which is recognized as the active ingredient. Take 300
milligrams three times per day. It usually takes one or two months of regular use to produce the desired
mood-elevating effect, but the same is true for prescription antidepressants. If you are currently taking antidepressant
medication, consult with your doctor before taking St. John's wort because the herb may intensify the effects of the
drug. Work with your doctor to gradually make the transition to St. John's wort by gradually tapering off your
antidepressant medication. Avoid intense sun exposure while taking St. John's wort, because although it is unlikely, the
herb may cause skin photosensitivity.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is best known for improving memory, but it can also improve mood because depression in
people over 50 can be caused by decreased blood flow to the brain. Older people are also more susceptible to
depression because the number of serotonin receptor sites on brain cells decreases with age. Ginkgo increases blood
flow to the brain by dilating the arteries and improving circulation, and preliminary studies show that it increases the
number of serotonin receptor sites. Take 120 to 240 milligrams daily of an extract standardized for 24 percent ginkgo
flavone glycosides.

Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) strengthens the nervous and endocrine systems and restores
healthy adrenal function. The adrenal glands playa critical role in the body's ability to adapt to physical and emotional
stressors. Emotional and physical stress is a primary cause of adrenal fatigue, and weak adrenal function is clearly
associated with depression. Take a standardized extract of Siberian ginseng, approximately 250 milligrams twice daily.
Take Siberian ginseng consistently for two months, with a two-week break before resuming the dosage. Avoid taking
near bedtime, because ginseng can be stimulating.

In cases of serious depression, standardized extracts are the most certain way of obtaining the recommended amounts
of an herb's active ingredients. If you suffer from mild depression and want to make your own antidepressant formula,
try the following recipe. If you do not obtain noticeable results within six weeks, switch to standardized extracts.

Natural Remedies for Depression with Aromatherapy

Essential oils have a direct influence on the limbic portion of the brain, which is the center of the brain responsible for
emotions and memory. That's why smells evoke such immediate and powerful memories and feelings. Essential oils
have a subtle and profound effect on the psyche and. can be incorporated into your daily life in many ways to uplift your
spirits and balance your emotions. Just the act of using essential oils is healing, because the more things you do to
nurture yourself, the better you will feel.

The following essential oils are especially helpful for relieving depression and can be used daily in baths and massage
oils.

Bergamot has a fresh, spicy, citrusy fragrance and has an uplifting effect on the psyche. Bergamot contains bergapten,
which can cause skin photosensitivity. Buy bergapten-free essential oil.

Lavender has a sweet, herbaceous, floral fragrance and is balancing for the nervous system. It acts as a restorative
tonic and has antidepressant properties.

Rose has a sweet, floral, intensely rose fragrance. It promotes a feeling of well-being, eases sorrow and psychological
pain, and opens the heart to feelings of love.

Sandalwood has a rich, woody, sweet fragrance. It has anti-depressant effects and is also calming and harmonizing.

If you want learn about AROMA THERAPY visit our Aroma Therapy page.

Uncovering the Message Beneath Depression.

While it is important to take positive steps to relieve depression, it is equally important to pay attention to the messages
that your psyche is trying to give you. If you are feeling down, take time for reflection. What is calling for your
attention? Depression is usually accompanied by a feeling of wanting to withdraw, which might be just exactly what you
need to do for a day or two. Take some time out, and allow yourself to rest, to go inward, and to allow the feelings that
are buried to surface. Depression is sometimes referred to as anger turned inward. Ask yourself what you might be
angry or frustrated about, and try journaling or talking with a trusted friend about your feelings. Often, when you allow
the full expression of your feelings, the depression will lift naturally. If you are severely depressed or if your depression
continues for more than a couple of weeks, seek help. Chronic depression needs to be evaluated by a mental-health
practitioner.

Finally, do as much as you can to nurture yourself when you are feeling down. Use relaxation practices such as
meditation, deep breathing exercises , and visualization excercises. Massage and other forms of body work can also be a
helpful tool for releasing deep emotions, and touch is wonderfully healing for the body and the spirit. Spend time in
nature, watch a favorite film, read something inspiring, listen to uplifting music. When you have allowed yourself the
time to feel all of your feelings, begin to take positive steps to return to living fully.

Mood-Elevating Formula for Depression.

1 ounce St.john's wort extract
1 ounce Siberian ginseng extract
1/4 ounce licorice root extract
1/4 ounce ginger root extract

Combine the herbal extracts and store in a dark-glass bottle. Take 1/2 teaspoon times
a day in a small amount of warm water.

How to Make Herbal Preparation

Mood Uplifting Massage Oil for Depression

3 ounces almond oil
1 ounce jojoba oil
20 drops lavender essential oil
10 drops rose essential oil
10 drops bergamot essential oil

Combine almond and jojoba oils with essential oils in a dark bottle. Store in a cool. dark
place, ,and shake well before using.

Alternative Fragrant Baths to Relieve Depression.

Choose one of the following combinations of essential oils and add to a bathtub of warm water. Soak for 15 to 20
minutes. If you are feeling tense, add 2 cups of Epsom salts to the bath, which are rich in magnesium, a
tension-relieving mineral.

Rose-Bergamot Bath: 5 drops rose, 5 drops bergamot
Sandalwood-Lavender Bath: 10 drops lavender, 5 drops sandalwood
lavender-Bergamot Bath: 10 drops lavender, 5 drops bergamot