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Home Remedies Index
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Alternative Treatment for Depression
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Alternative Treatment 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.
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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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
lternative Herbal Help 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.
Aromatherapy Alternative Treatments for Depression.
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.
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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
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Mood Uplifting Massage Oil.
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.
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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
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