Herbal Therapy for Depression

Herbal remedies can be very effective at treating symptoms of depression for those who are unable or unwilling to take the depression medications that are usually prescribed. The herbs that are used to treat depression offer a natural alternative.

St. John's Wort

• St. John's wort has been used to treat depression with success in Europe for many years. The herb is taken in a supplement form as well as in a tea to alleviate the symptoms of depression. In the United States, herbal treatments such as St. John's wort do not require a prescription to use for treatment.
  St. John's wort is not a proven treatment for depression, and patients should seek the advice of a medical professional before any herbal treatments are used. This herb also interacts with prescription medications and can cause prescription medications to be less effective.
  St. John's wort has been shown to have a only a minimal effect on major depression and it may be effective only for treating milder cases, according to a study funded by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Ginkgo Biloba

• Ginkgo biloba is used to treat depression as a complementary therapy that can enhance other depression treatments. It is not as effective as St. John's wort in the treatment of mild depression, but it can be helpful to improve circulation in the brain. This may have an impact on depression and its treatment.

Ginseng

• Herbal therapies for depression treatment may include ginseng. There is no evidence that ginseng will aid in the treatment of depression, but it has been used to increase energy levels in those who are suffering from the disorder.
  Ginseng is not considered a cure or treatment for depression, but it is used to improve adrenal function and to relieve the stress that accompanies depression.

Diagnosis and Medication

• It is important to understand that depression is a major mental illness that should be diagnosed and treated under the guidance of a qualified doctor. While herbal remedies can offer some relief from specific depression symptoms, a treatment plan that includes therapy, prescription medications and counseling also should be part of the overall approach to depression treatment.
  Depression left untreated can lead to tragic circumstances and must be diagnosed before beginning any treatment program. Herbal remedies can be a part of the approach, but they should be used with caution and with the direction of your doctor.