*Note: Please see this discussion of what is meant by “herbal-cure.” Also note that when we claim “herbal” cures in a headline, we’re also usually including nutritional supplements.
Since the causes or contributing factors of depression can be so various and widespread, there are many herbs that could conceivably help. If the adrenals are exhausted, for example, Licorice and/or formulas developed specifically to support the adrenals may help.
Often with depression, the liver is functioning below par because it is overtaxed (an overburdened liver is a threat to every American with our hypter-chemicalized, over-polluted environment). Nature’s Sunshine has a wonderful Chinese formula called Mood Elevator which decongests the liver and digestive organs, and that frequently does indeed elevate one’s mood. And there are many other good liver herbs as well — Dandelion is an old faithful, as is Milk Thistle.
Hypothyroidism is a cause of depression in 10 – 15% of depression patients, yet it may go undiagnosed — and therefore untreated — while depression is treated instead (and usually with pharmaceuticals). The thyroid can be aided by the iodine found in such NSP products as Liquid Dulse, Black Walnut, Thyroid Activator, and TS II with Hops. Two common symptoms that many people with low-functioning thyroids experience is cold extremities (pretty much all the time) and a lower than normal base temperature. The temperature can be tested by taking your underarm temperature each morning for several days before arising or even moving very much. If it consistently reads less than 97.6 (98.6 is normal), you probably have a low thyroid, especially if you have other symptoms. Since the thyroid is a master gland, this can create small but perisistent (and usually worsening) problems with other body systems, usually of the sub-normal functioning variety.
By the way, if you have or suspect you have a low thyroid, that is often caused by heavy metals, so a heavy metal detox might be in order. A majority of women in the United States, and many men, suffer from low thyroid. Many aren’t even aware that’s what their problem is.
Hormone imbalances due to childbirth, PMS, or menopause can frequently create problems of depression, in which case Black Cohosh often helps. For both men and women with low reproductive hormones as a contributing factor of depression, damiana can often help.
If chronic stress is a major contributor, adaptogens such as eleurthero root and SUMA may help.
Many have been helped with 5-HTP, which is a precursor of seratonin in the brain. It’s also useful in weightloss since seratonin helps regulate appetite along with mood and sleep.
Coming next, Cures for Depression, Part 3: the nutritional supplement which has been clinically shown to be “as effective as” some of the popular prescription drugs for depression. Don’t miss it. Subscribe to the RSS feed.
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Note: The links are to Nature’s Sunshine Products because as an independent NSP Distributor, I am familiar with the incredible quality of each product, the money-back guarantee, the integrity of the company as a whole. There are other good companies brands, but in my opinion none rival Nature’s Sunshine. Even so, there are other sources.
Puritan’s Pride, for example, is a low price leader in the industry. I purchase from Puritan’s now and then and have never been unhappy with the product. Similarly, you can find really great prices at HerbsPro.com and iHerb.com (use Coupon Code HUF552 for $5 off your first order) on brands you know and love. I had been recommending a third online cut-rate source, but my own order from them was so late recently, and the customer service so poor that I can no longer recommend them.
