Alternative Medicine for Depression & Anxiety

Alternative medicine for depression and anxiety is effective for relieving symptoms and treating causes. Mood disorders are quite common. They can be the result of other illnesses, a disruption in the brain's chemicals, hereditary or environmental. When treating depression and anxiety it is important to discover and treat the underlying cause.

Herbs for Depression

• A popular and effective herbal remedy for depression is St. John's wort. It is taken in a standardized extract of .3 percent hypericin. St. John's wort has been proven as effective as prescription medications in treating mild to moderate mood disorders. There are some side effects, such as an increased sensitivity to light. Ginkgo biloba has shown some promise in treating depression, especially in older individuals. More research into how it helps is needed, but it appears to affect the serotonin receptors and is known to be an antioxidant.

Herbs for Anxiety

• Valerian is a sedative that helps with anxiety and the sometimes resulting symptom of insomnia. Kava is also a mild sedative used to treat anxiety. It is safest in a standardized extract. Though kava has been studied and proven to aid in the treatment of anxiety, there are some concerns about possible damage to the liver. Taken in proper dosages and for a limited amount of time, it appears to be safe.

Supplements

• 5-HTP is used to treat depression that is caused by a deficiency of serotonin in the brain. 5-HTP is a serotonin precursor and increases levels of endorphins. It is manufactured from the seed of an African plant, Griffonia simplicifolia. In studies it rivals prescriptions for the treatment of depression. 5-HTP does have some mild side effects, usually affecting the digestive system. Other supplements to consider are a B complex vitamin and omega fatty acids. Deficiencies in B vitamins and essential fatty acids have been connected to depression.

Exercise & Diet

• Exercising 30 minutes at least three times a week decreases mood disorder symptoms. Better results are achieved with an increase in the intensity of the exercise. An exercise plan for depression and anxiety should include both strength training and aerobic exercise. Walking, bike riding, swimming and jogging all are aerobic exercises. Eating a healthy diet is important to any treatment plan. Eliminate caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. Eat a variety of whole foods and maintain a balanced diet.

Warnings

• There may be some contraindications when taking herbal medicines and supplements with prescriptions. Be sure to speak to a health care provider before taking any remedies. Exercise should also be discussed before a program is started.