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Herbal Remedies for Depression
ST. JOHN'S WORT (Hypericum perforatum) In the past decade, several scientific studies have demonstrated that St. John's wort works better than a placebo in treating mild to moderate depression. More recently, three key research trials have revealed that St. John's wort works at least as well as, if not better than, the leading antidepressant drugs with far fewer side effects. The mechanism behind St. John's wort's effects is still a mystery. Because it appears to produce the same type of effects as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), researchers believe that the herb (like these antidepressants) slows down the rate at which the brain reabsorbs serotonin. Furthermore, there is some evidence that St. John's wort may also alter concentrations of other neurotransmitters, as well as increase receptor-site sensitivity. On an even brighter note, a recent study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology described a trial in which St. John's wort (300 mg of kypericum per day) reduced premenstrual symptoms by more than half in two-thirds of 19 women. Therefore, St. John's wort's benefits appear to extend beyond general depression to include specific mood-altering conditions.
KAVA (Piper methysticum) is a traditional ceremonial drink from the South Pacific, now hailed for its ability to safely ease depression and the anxiety that often accompanies it. The active ingredients in kava, known as kavalactones, are stored in the roots of the plant. In the human body, these compounds can clear the area around gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain. This allows more GABA to bind, resulting in relaxed muscles and relief from anxiety and pain. Furthermore, kavalactones also act on the part of the brain called the amygdala, which controls emotions, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and appetite.
GINKGO (Ginkgo biloba) is known for its ability to improve blood flow through the brain, but has also been shown to improve mood by increasing serotonin receptors. In one double-blind study, ginkgo was shown to improve symptoms of depression in 40 patients who had been using standard antidepressant drugs without reaping full benefits. Therefore, ginkgo appears to be an independent mood lifter, as well as a safe and beneficial addition to an antidepressant drug regimen.
Dosage: St. John's wort is available in various forms: tablets, capsules and tinctures, although tinctures are believed to be the most potent form. The typical dosage is 300 mg three times daily of an extract standardized to contain 0.3% hypericin or 2 to 3% hyperforin. It may take up to three to four weeks, to reap significant rewards.
Note: St. John's wort should not be combined with prescription antidepressants, since the combination may cause serotonin levels to become too high. St. John's wort may also decrease the effectiveness of various medications, including protease inhibitors used to treat HIV, cyclosporine for organ transplants, oral contraceptives, chemotherapy drugs and more. Therefore, if you are on any major medication, it is important to check with your physician before taking St. John's wort.
Dosage: Take 135 to 250 mg per day of standardized extract containing 60 to 75% kavalactones in divided doses. Capsules, tablets and tinctures are available.
Note: At high doses, kava can cause a sleepy or heavily sedated feeling. Do not take kava with prescription antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs. Pregnant or lactating women should consult their physicians before using kava.
Dosage: Take 40 to 80 mg of an extract standardized to contain 24% ginkgo flavone glycosides three times per day. It may take up to six weeks to realize the full benefits.
Note: Individuals taking aspirin or blood thinners should avoid ginkgo.
