Herbs for Depression

Depression is becoming more common in our society and is currently at its ultimate high. Although we have more of everything in this day and age, it is becoming more difficult to live a happy life.

Symptoms of Depression include the following:

- feeling sad longer than several weeks

- difficulty sleeping

- low energy level

- lack of interest in sex

- loss of appetite and interest in food

- feelings of pessimism and self-doubt

- difficulty concentrating or remembering simple things

- restlessness and agitation

- lack of interest in friends or social events

- thoughts of suicide

More and more people are seeing their doctor about this problem and as a result, there is a huge increase in the numbers of people who are taking medication for depression. This form of dependence will not solve the root of the problem and often leads to a need for increased doses and stronger medications.

An alternative option for many people is to seek out herbs for depression. The single most popular herb found to be effective for depression is St. John's Wort.

St. John's Wort - nature's depression drug

St. John's Wort has been shown in over 1700 patients to have an antidepressant action comparable to conventional drug treatment, with lower side effects. Its compounds allow serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine to build up between neurons in a manner similar to other antidepressants.

The recommended dose is 300 mg, three times a day, however, each person is different and it is advisable to consult your doctor, pharmacist or herbalist for more precise directions.

Although side effects are usually very minimal, they still are possible and may include one or some of the following: upset digestive tract, constipation, restlessness, dizziness, sedation, and sensitivity to sunlight. In fact, anyone taking St. John's Wort should stay out of bright sunlight.

It is also important to note that taking St. John's Wort in combination with antidepressant drugs and other medications can cause side effects.

Not all herbs for depression with St. John's Wort are equal. Many products contain a low-quality form of St. John's Wort or don't provide the herb in the full proven dose. High-quality St. John's Wort extracts contain at least 3% hyperforin, and the best pharmaceutical-grade products are standardized to a minimum of 5% hyperforin. (Hyperforin is the active antidepressant compound in St. John's Wort.) And since the effective daily dosage of St. John's Wort is 900 mg for mild-moderate depression and 1800 mg for severe depression, herbs for depression that provide 450 mg per capsule/capsule are superior to those that provide only 100-200 mg per capsule/capsule.

It is important to remember that the best herbs for depression are those containing proven ingredients in the proper doses and potencies and manufactured with strict quality-control procedures.

Where to Purchase Effective Herbal Formulas

St. John's Wort can be found at any herbal store. An excellent online resource for herbal remedies is evitamins.com. This company is regarded in the natural health industry as having the utmost integrity and knowledge.

Get informed about depression and herbal remedies! Find out about recent St. John's Wort research and new specials and discounts offered at evitamins.com.

Do something smart and natural about your depression today and start feeling great again! Herbs can be a major part of the solution to depression, however, don't forget to think of the following additional factors: exercise, social support, and positive thinking!

Wishing you Happiness always!