If you've ever suffered from depression, anxiety or stress, you know that every area of your life suffers as a result. And if you've experienced one of these symptoms, it's likely that you've endured all three as they are closely related. This troublesome trifecta of ailments drives many individuals to seek a pharmaceutical solution, and while that may seem like the most plausible remedy, the laundry list of possible side effects associated with such drugs is enough to drive anyone to a different, more wholesome solution. In order to understand why natural treatments for depression are highly effective, let's first take a look at its root causes.
The Causes of Depression
As of 2005, a study by the CDC showed that antidepressants were among the top three most commonly prescribed drugs in America. As many medical professionals will tell you themselves, antidepressants are just a bandaid of sorts. They only treat the symptoms of depression while ignoring the root causes of it.
Depending on who you talk to, some doctors believe depression is caused by out-of-whack hormones. Some physicians attribute it to an imbalance in one's brain chemistry. Still others think that depression is strictly due to genetics and life events. While the proposed causes may differ, they all have a common theme - imbalance. Whether it's the leveling out of hormones, stabilization of chemical secretions or an adjustment to everyday life, balance seems to play a key role in fighting depression and its related conditions.
Ways to Treat Depression and Stress Naturally
So if depression is caused by an imbalance somewhere, the solution to this crippling condition must lie in stabilizing those imbalances. Since there are often many factors that contribute to depression, anxiety and stress, there is no one single remedy. Instead, the best way to overcome these conditions may be to take a multi-faceted approach that includes eating healthy foods, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep.
Another great way to combat depression is through the use of herbs – nature's finest medicine. Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Here are a few of the most effective varieties that are said to improve moods and reduce stress:
- Wild Lettuce: Popular as a mild sedative, wild lettuce contains a milky substance called lactucarium, which acts to soothe and calm the nervous system.
- Chamomile: Known for its soothing qualities, chamomile is among the most ancient herbs known to man and is often enjoyed as a warm tea. Loaded with antioxidants, it's a natural way to fight stress and induce relaxation.
- St. John's Wort: Used to treat nervous conditions in ancient Greece, St. John's wort is believed to possess various xanthones and hypericin, both of which elevate serotonin and dopamine levels much like modern antidepressants do.
- Ashwagandha Root: Also known as Indian ginseng, ashwagandha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It's composed of active compounds like alkaloids and saponins that help relieve the effects of physical fatigue, nervousness, anxiety and mood swings.
- Feverfew: A European perennial, feverfew contains a substance called parthenolide, which is known to act as a natural stress reliever and sleep aid.
- Fennel: As an herb rich in phytoestrogens, the use of fennel has been linked to better moods and decreased stress levels.
While you can certainly take any of these herbs individually, a better solution would be to choose a product that combines all of these powerful herbs into one convenient bottle. If you're considering an herbal supplement for depression, anxiety or stress, consider an all-in-one, potent formula like the HAPPY – Organic Mood Blend. It's an all-natural, vegan blend of organic chamomile and organic ashwagandha root along with all the other high-quality herbs listed above.
Though these herbs are considered safe for consumption, it's always best to consult your physician before starting a new regimen.