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Herbs for Health & Happiness

Many people are turning to medicinal herbs to treat depression or to boost energy and mental focus. Medicinal herbs may prove to be a better choice for those suffering from mild depression, anxiety or fatigue--or for those who simply want to improve their overall well-being. As interest in alternative medicine grows, so does the body of research covering efficacy, side effects and optimal dosage of herbal remedies.

  1. St. John's Wort

    • St John's Wort, sometimes called "natural Prozac," has been used for centuries to alleviate depression. More than 30 double-blind studies show St. John's Wort to be as effective as the prescription antidepressants Zoloft and Prozac--but with far fewer side effects, according to Consultant magazine. Researchers are unclear how the herb works. Some evidence indicates that it boosts neurotransmitter activity in the brain, but it may also work by lowering stress hormones in the body.

    Kava-Kava

    • Kava-Kava, or "intoxicating pepper," may help reduce anxiety, decrease muscle tension and promote sleep--without slowing you down or affecting your mental clarity. It might even make you more sociable. Studies show Kava-Kava has long-term efficacy without the side effects and tolerance problems associated with drugs prescribed for depression and anxiety, according to Consultant.

    Ginseng

    • Use ginseng to fight fatigue or as an energizing substitute for caffeine. Ginseng strengthens your adrenal glands and helps your body respond to stress more effectively, which prevents adrenal depletion and the fatigue that follows. Research cited in Consultant also indicates that ginseng can help you sleep better at night, which should leave you feeling more energetic during the day.

    Ginkgo Biloba

    • Ginkgo biloba is used to boost brain power, improve concentration and increase circulation to the brain and extremities. The herb contains flavonoids, which promote good blood flow and help protect brain cells from the damaging effects of free radicals. Ginkgo is sometimes used for temporary improvement of cognitive function in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, according to Consultant. Because ginkgo reduces anxiety, it may improve mental function and stabilize mood during stressful situations, such as test-taking or giving a presentation.

    Herb Bath

    • Vegetarian Times invites readers to benefit from herbs in a more sensual way--by bathing in water infused with herbal oils and teas. The magazine recommends a 15-minute herbal bath to help calm nerves, boost energy levels or break a sad spell. Use one quart of strong herbal tea and no more than eight drops of essential oil per bath. Choose warm water for relaxation and cool water for stimulation.

    Expert Opinion

    • Psychiatrist Michael Zal, writing for Consultant, stresses the need for scientific testing and regulation of medicinal herbs--in order to make them a part of psychiatry's toolbox. He writes: "Without regulation, interpreting advertisements and labeling for these supplements can be an adventure in confusion. It is often difficult to separate 'hype' from reality." He would like psychiatrists to play a regulatory and guiding role in what has largely become patient self-diagnosis.

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