2007-01-30 10:43:43 · 9 answers · asked by Megha 1 in Health ➔ Mental Health
As already mentioned, St. John's Wort is one herbal remedy for depression, the problem is that is can cause side effects for some people and may interact with some medications.
I have done some research on the link between depression and nutrition, and the following things have been found to help: B vitamins and Omega-3 fatty acids (can be found in fish oil, walnuts, flaxseed oil) are supported the most by research. Also unrefined or Celtic sea salt has trace minerals that supprt neurotransmitter functioning (it also has trace amounts of lithium salts - and we all know what that's good for!), and lecithin. Lecithin is not indicated specifically for depression, but it is very good for keeping a healthy nervous system in general, and is therefore thought to help with depression.
You can buy lithium salts at some health food stores, but I would be cautious with this, especially if you are taking any other medications.
You can also buy 5-HTP at some health food stores (or online, of course) - this is a substance that your body turns into serotonin. Effectiveness has not yet been proven, but some people say it works and it seems to be safe - but there again, it has not been proven. I would do a little research on that yourself first, just to be safe. But I have never heard of any problems with the 5-HTP.
One last thing - make sure you get enough Vitamin C and Zinc. Vitamin C helps your body turn the tryptophan you eat into serotonin (which btw, in case you don't know, serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is often lacking in depression) and several studies have shown that zinc produces antidepressant effects.
Plus make sure you eat healthy - not too much sugar, alcohol, or caffeine. Best of luck to you!
2007-01-30 13:05:55 · answer #1 · answered by Amber W 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are herbs available, like St. John's Wort, but they only work somewhat. Caffeine helps some people (drink extra coffee) and chocolate also helps some people. Marijuana can help, but it's wicked expensive and illegal.
Generic Prozac, if you have medical insurance, only costs about $5- $10 for a month's supply. There are many anti-depressants on the market because each one only seems to work well for a certain percentage of the population (this indicates that depression is still poorly understood). Therapy helps a great deal, but it is a real investment in time and money. Good luck!
2007-01-30 18:52:47 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm going to pick up some of my old trusty, dusty St. John's Wort (after I check to be sure its okay for nursing moms to use) because it works. It really "supports a good mood." I used it before and I will try it again. Give it a try. It takes about 10 days be consistent and drink enough water. It works. Oh, honey. I hope you cheer up. Depression sure does suck.
2007-01-30 18:49:08 · answer #3 · answered by Sleek 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The only thing I ever heard of is an herb called "St. John's Wort". It's not the most powerful but it works in a lot of cases. Check the link.
2007-01-30 18:49:54 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Chocolate
2007-01-30 18:51:13 · answer #5 · answered by dukefenton 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Recent research has found that fish oil might help alleviate depression. You can find fish oil supplements over-the-counter but I can't tell you exactly where.
2007-01-30 19:28:50 · answer #6 · answered by el curtido 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Whether u try the shot of alcohol or not, take B 12 and eat blueberries.
St.John Wart is your best herbal bet.
Aromotherapy.....
http://www.aromatherapy.com
2007-01-30 18:50:12 · answer #7 · answered by sunflare63 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
go to the health food/ vitamin store, there are many options for you.. st. johns wort, sam-e, mood enhancing vitamins,
2007-01-30 18:51:52 · answer #8 · answered by KAT 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes its called alcohol. can make it worse sontimes though!
2007-01-30 18:48:16 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋