|  | Conditions Treatments | Depression

How to Treat Depression With Herbs

Herbal remedies and supplements are becoming a popular alternative to treat depression, especially among those people who wish to avoid the possible side effects of prescription medication such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs. By talking with your doctor about your condition, you may be able to treat depression with herbs.

Things You'll Need

  • Doctor or mental health professional
  • Herbs and herbal supplements
Show More

Instructions

  1. Treat Depression With Herbs

    • 1

      Consult with your physician or mental health professional about the effectiveness of herbs and herbal supplements to treat depression and whether or not it is a viable option for you.

    • 2

      Decide if you want to take the herbs in capsule form, or if you want to drink them in a tea form. Many of the herbs used to treat depression, such as licorice, can also have a pleasing flavor that many people enjoy.

    • 3

      Find a resource for buying herbs and herbal supplements in your area. Most health food stores and vitamin stores have a wide variety of herbs to treat depression, and you may even find a local gardener who grows and sells medicinal herbs. Or, you can consider growing the herbs yourself if you have a green thumb.

    • 4

      Try St. John's Wort, which one of the most common herbs used to treat depression and to reduce mood swings. Most health experts recommend a daily dosage of 900 to 1,800 mgs. per day for best results. Do note that there is some controversy about the safety of St. John's Wort, especially if you're currently taking prescription medication.

    • 5

      Use licorice, in either capsule form or in a tea, to treat your depression. Licorice contains many of the same monoamine oxidase inhibitors found in more powerful prescription medication used for the treatment of depression and personality disorders. It is possible, however, to experience side effects with licorice, such as an elevation in blood pressure, so check with your doctor before taking it.

    • 6

      Investigate other types of herbs used to treat depression. These include valerian root, damiana and ginseng. Look for herbal supplements that may combine two or more of these herbs together for better results.

Depression - Related Articles