by M. L. Kiser

Created on: September 01, 2011   Last Updated: April 30, 2012

Herbs can help with depression

Depression is a condition that is endured by millions of people, worldwide.  It may be the result of genetic, environmental, biochemical or psychosocial influences.  It’s estimated that over 38 million adults in the United States alone, have suffered some form of depression.  While it can be treated successfully with many prescription medications, many of these have even more debilitating, even potentially fatal side effects.  

Depression may be an intense or overwhelming feeling of sadness and it can occur after a loss or other sad events.  Approximately ten percent of the people, who see their doctors for physical symptoms, are really experiencing depression.  Feelings of sadness, helplessness, hopelessness, feeling irritable, angry, short tempered, insomnia or oversleeping, significant weight loss or weight gain, concentration problems, recklessness such as substance abuse or gambling increases, unexplainable aches and pains, lack or interest in daily activities, loss of energy, and self-loathing are all symptoms of depression. 

The good news is that depression can also be treated naturally, with little or no side effects.  There are many herbs, which can help to fight off or treat depression.  Many are easily grown or purchased in local stores and garden centers.  You can also purchase them in pill, tablet or capsule form, as well as, dried and whole or cut herbs, in health food stores and on line. 

Although most conventional physicians are not familiar with herbal use and its side effects or interactions, a good osteopath, herbalist, homeopathic or alternative or even integrative physician will be able to help you more.  Although many are not covered by insurance, they are well worth the expense, to get the best, safest health treatments.  Fortunately, today more physicians are willing to become integrative and will work with you if want to utilize alternative treatments.  Many integrative practitioners are covered by insurance. 

The following is a list of herbs that can help to fight off or relieve the symptoms of depression, some of which may be right in your cooking spice cabinet right now. 

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), used most often for seasoning meats, this culinary herb is also quite medicinal.  It has antiseptic, anti fungal and antibacterial properties that can enhance the immune system and increase circulation.  

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