Tag Archive | alternative therapies

Emergency Herbs for Anxiety and Depression

While you are still depressed and stressed it is very difficult to think clearly. Sometimes, you should consider using a bit of external help. Even if you detest antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication, there are still other natural remedies that could be of help.

For depression your best option would be St John’s Word, otherwise called Hypericum Perforatum. This is a herb that has been used in Greece for millennia with astonishing results. Several psychiatric studies have proven that the plant is superior to placedo and that it really helps patients who suffer from mild or moderate depression. It also has far fewer side effects than the standard antidepressants you will find in the market. It is used widely in Germany but you can find it also very easily in UK supermarkets, such as Tesco or Sainsburys. You do not need prescription to use it but, I would advise you, to inform your GP about it. Take 300 mg three times daily. It will take around six weeks before you see positive results. Continue taking it for no more than six months, during which time I would expect you to try to resolve your psychological problems also with the help of other methods.

Another excellent supplement you can take for depression (Unipolar or Bipolar) is Omega 3.It has been proven that in large dosage it stabilises the mood. The pills have to be high in EPA and DHA (up to 1000 mg). Ordering online is generally cheaper but make certain that the product is organic. You should take it at least for 4 weeks before you see positive results. Once it enters your system, it will help you also with heart problems.

Bear in mind that Lemon Balm Tea is excellent for depression and grief. Other supplements that could help with depression are Folic Acid and/or Vitamin B Complex. Also, if you are suffering from S.A.D. you should consider taking Vitamin D.

With regard to anxiety, I would highly recommend Kava Kava. This is a plant that grows in the Pacific Islands and has been used by the local for centuries. A minimum dosage of 60 kavalactones per day would alleviate the stress and will help you sleep in the evening. The problem is that you cannot buy it in Europe. There have been a few instances of liver failure, because of the prolonged usage of the pills (more than 3 consecutive months) and because the product was distilled in alcohol. You can easily order it online, though, from US, New Zealand or Australian pharmacies. Even if pharmacies in Europe are not allowed to sell it, the usage of the plant (and its products) is perfectly legal. Make certain that it is distilled in water and do not take it for more than 3 months. Again, you should inform your GP.

Other herbs used against stress are: a) Valerian root. Order it in liquid form and take around 30 drops per day before you go to bed. It will help you sleep. b) Linden Tea also helps relaxing but you should not drink more than two cups per day. c) Chamomile tea is soothing and also it is excellent for those who suffer from IBS. Be careful, though, because if you drink too many cups per day, you may get light diarrhoea.

Other supplements you can take are Vitamin B Complex and Vitamin C.