What Is a Good Tea for Depression?

Many people are interested in herbal or natural remedies for a variety of illnesses, and there are proven benefits to many of these remedies. However, depression is a serious medical condition that requires the attention of a doctor. The use of any herbal remedy should first be discussed with your physician.

St. John's Wort

• St. John's Wort has long been touted as an herbal alternative to antidepressants (and is even more effective than some) because it has fewer side effects than pharmaceuticals, and many herbal manufacturers now offer this herb in tea form.

White Tea

• A compound in white tea actually increases the levels of serotonin, dopamine and GABA in the brain, which can cause a person to feel happier.

Gingko Biloba

• In addition to memory-boosting effects, gingko biloba is now thought to increase feel-good chemicals in the body, which can help combat depression.

Licorice

• At least eight of the different compounds found in licorice act as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, which are chemical antidepressants, so drinking licorice tea can help you effectively treat depression.

Green Tea

• Many of the tannins and antioxidants found in green tea have been shown to reduce stress and combat depression, and green tea can also help reduce anxiety, which often accompanies many forms of depression.