Herbalists, what is a good LEGAL herb that controls seratonin?

Question

I have to come off my wellbutrin and lexapro to apply for a pilots liscense. Is there something herbal I can take that will work on seratonin levels like these psychotropics?

Answer 1

sam-e. It can be found at any drugstore or gnc, it's not a normal medicine, it's herbal/new ageish. I took wellbutrin before and sam-e is pretty similar. I've heard st John's wart is too, but when I take it I throw up and I hate it, but that's just me.

Answer 2

There is a dietary supplement you can get at your pharmacy that possibly has demonstrated the same effects as the prescription antidepressants. It is called 5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin.

It is my belief that this will work if your problem is a deficiency of 5-HTP. In some people, you could lack adequate levels of serotonin because of some other reason. In that case, this wouldn't work.

5-HTP is sold over the counter and is considered safe. It should be okay to try it. Main thing is to make sure you don't take it at the same time as your other antidepressants. Coordinate the transition with your physician and pharmacist.

Read about 5-HTP below.

Good luck, DJ

Answer 3

Not an herb though Fish Oil Omega 3's are showing to have potentially profound effect on depression. NIH has done studies involving worldwide analysis. They need to be HIGH QUALITY such as Nordic Naturals or Carlsons, otherwise effectiveness varies and mercury residues are possible. Here is the site of one guy who has been involved with these studies as well as ones conducted at the FDA on St Johns Wort, also worth consideration/looking into more
http://www.jerrycott.com/IntegrativePsychiatry.html
Check out American Botanical Councils for contraindications for St J's if you consider: www.herbalgram.org
Search there with term: hypericum monograph
woops there actually are some contraindications that are not mentioned there for some reason - mainly dealing with the metabolism of other pharmaceutical drugs as St J's may enhance cytochome P 450 enzyme activity, also sun sensitivity may be enhanced with use of this herb

Best Wishes and remember that optimum nutrition, fresh air and exercise, engaging in soulful activities (whatever that means to you) are foundations of health