Natural Herbs That Raise Serotonin

Produced in the brain, serotonin is a chemical that plays a vital role in a person's mental well-being. People with low serotonin levels may suffer from depression or exhibit abrupt behavioral changes. Serotonin deficiencies can also lead to anxiety, anger and aggression. There are drugs that can help restore these levels. However, for people wanting to use natural treatments, there are herbs that may raise serotonin levels.

Function

• A neurotransmitter relays messages between different brain cells. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter or chemical messenger found in the brain that has many functions. It helps in regulating moods, sleep, body temperature, appetite and metabolism. It also plays a role in relieving depression and other psychological and emotional conditions. Therefore, an imbalance in serotonin levels can cause serious health problems. Low levels of serotonin can cause depression, anxiety, sadness and other behavioral changes.

Significance

• To treat depression and other mental states associated with serotonin deficiency, drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be a first line of defense. SSRIs work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which in turn raises serotonin levels in the spaces between brain cells.
  A natural way to raise serotonin is to use herbs like St. John's wort that may have a similar effect to some SSRI drugs. Ginseng is another traditional herb used to treat some symptoms of serotonin deficiency like depression and anxiety.

St. John's Wort

• For centuries, herbalists used St. John's wort to treat ailments that included wounds, cuts, burns, anxiety, insomnia and depression. Today, this herb is a popular remedy for depression. According to the National Institutes of Health, certain studies and data suggest that for mild to moderate depression St John's wort could be as effect as some SSRIs. However, more research is necessary to show its true efficacy in treating depression. A chemical called hyperforin found in this herb may help inhibit serotonin uptake.

Ginseng

• In traditional Chinese medicine, ginseng is an herbal remedy used for ailments like depression, insomnia and fatigue. Herbalists claim that ginseng improves a person's sense of well-being and combats physical and mental stress. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, chemicals in ginseng called ginsenosides appear to be responsible for the medicinal properties associated with this herb.
  Ginseng can increase serotonin levels. However, taking serotonin-increasing drugs or herbal supplements like ginseng and St. John's wort can cause an accumulation of serotonin in the body. This could lead to a condition called serotonin syndrome, which can cause serious health problems (see Resources).

Warning

• Although these herbs may increase serotonin levels, there is no scientific proof that supports the use of these herbs to treat depression or other health conditions. People should consult their doctors.
  There are side effects associated with both of these herbs. In some people, possible side effects of using St. John's wort and ginseng are stomach problems and headaches. St. John's wort can interact with drugs like antidepressants and anticoagulants.