How Do Herbal Antidepressants Work

Lots and lots of people who suffer from depression are beginning to turn to alternative antidepressant treatments, which is why there is a rise of herbal antidepressant supplements in the market. Depression and defining postpartum mood disorders sufferers prefer natural antidepressant remedies over prescription drugs, because there are usually health risks associated with using conventional medications.

Herbal antidepressant remedies are known to have fewer side effects and will work naturally and slowly in the body, instead of making instantaneous changes as some traditional medications do.

Below is a list of most effective alternative antidepressant remedies and how they work:

St. John’s Wort

This particular herbal antidepressant remedy is not only inexpensive; it is also known to have few side effects and it great for long term treatment. It works like a weak MAO inhibitor and like an SSRI (this is a group of antidepressant medication). St. John’s Wort teas and supplements are known to be pretty effective in peaceful mood and treating depression.

Licorice

Research has shown that this natural antidepressant herb is even more effective than a couple of prescription medication, but this herb should be taken under the supervision of a qualified health care provider.

Siberian Ginseng

Research has shown that Siberian ginseng is suitable herbal mood booster, which is very useful for treating other types of emotional problems and not only depression. This herb improves the effectiveness of neurotransmitters and it is also an immune booster as well. Siberian ginseng can also be used to regulate the body’s blood sugar levels. It also helps the body to successfully cope with stress – this will benefit the user’s overall mental health.

Lavender

This is one herbal mood booster that has a calming fragrance that soothes the nervous system – this helps relax people who suffer from depression and it can also increase the brain’s activity.

Peppermint

This is also a well known herbal mood booster; it helps users by relieving symptoms of depression such as listlessness and anxiety.

Lemon Verbena

This particular herb is known to have properties which are similar to peppermint. It works by improving the mood and calming the mind.

Ginkgo Biloba

This herbal antidepressant works by increasing the blood flow to the brain – which makes it especially beneficial for old people. It also works by lifting the mood.

Kava Kava

This is one of the herbal alternative antidepressant remedies that is used for the treatment of severe depression. Kava Kava tea can be brewed from the dried herb, this can induce a really good night’s rest.

Passion flower

This herb is known for its sedative properties, it can soothe a person’s mood in order to relax them (naturally) and also enable them to have a good night’s sleep. This herb can also be used in combination with other herbs.

Natural antidepressant herbs work by helping to keep the chemical serotonin in the brain for a longer period, thus improving blood flow which leads to active brain function.

If you are thinking of using herbal remedy for treating depression, you will need to get advice from a qualified health care provider. Some herbs maybe great for treating depression but might also have negative effects on other conditions and drugs. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their physician before they take any type of herb.