Depression, PND, & Anxiety Information

Dietary Supplements


5-HTP supplements are claimed to provide more raw material to the body's natural serotonin production process. There is a reasonable indication that 5-HTP may t be effective for those who haven't already responded well to an SSRI.



S-adenosyl methionine (SAM-e) is a derivative of the amino acid methionine that is found throughout the human body, where it acts as a methyl donor and participates in other biochemical reactions. It is available as a prescription antidepressant in Europe and an over-the-counter dietary supplement in the United States. Clinical trials have shown SAM-e to be as effective as standard antidepressant medication, with many fewer side effects. Its mode of action is unknown.



Omega-3 fatty acids (found naturally in oily fish, flax seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, and canola oil) have also been found to be effective when used as a dietary supplement (although only fish-based omega-3 fatty acids have shown antidepressant efficacy)



Magnesium has gathered some attention.



St John's Wort [Hypericum Perforatum] Traditionally used by 'wise women' and midwives for hundreds of years, to 'chase away the devil' of melancholia and anxiety. It is a mood-enhancing antidepressant supplement that increases the availability of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine at the neuron synapses. Also popular for treating insomnia, mood swings, fatigue, PMS and menopause.



Ginkgo Biloba Effective natural antidepressant said to stabilise cell membranes, inhibiting lipid breakdown and aiding cell use of oxygen and glucose - so subsequently a mental and vascular stimulant that improves neaurtransmitter production. Also popular for treating mental concentration (eg for Alzheimer's and post-strokes).



Siberian Ginseng [Eleutherococcus Senticosus] Although t a true panax ginseng it is a mood enhancement supplment against stress. Also popular for treating depression, insomnia, moodiness, fatigue, poor memory, lack of focus, mental tension and endurance.



Zinc: 25mg per day have had an antidepressant effect in an experiment



Biotin: a deficiency has caused a severe depression. The patient's symptoms improved after the deficiency was corrected.



The amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine have also a favorable effect by easy forms of depression. They enhance the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenalin.