Anyone know of some all natural anti-depressants?

[Sonny McB]

I think major drug company anti depressants mess you up in the long term and are designed to keep you dependent on them. (money trail...) + they have some pretty negative side effects on some people depending on their physiology.

Anyway, I'd be interested in hearing if anyone has any natural anti-depressants. A good workout routine is great but I'm wondering if there are certain natural foods that can be beneficial in the aid of mild depression.

This thread is not for debate on whether drug companies are good or bad. Please just contribute by listing natural remedies if you have any.

[tanyapmc]

My doc told me that fish oil has anti depressant qualities.

[Sonny McB]

Originally Posted by tanyapmc

My doc told me that fish oil has anti depressant qualities.

What kind of fish oil? Like cod liver oil?

[nandm]

Here is a list from my Nursing herbal drug guide. Please note that I am not condoning or encouraging the use of any of these that is for you to decide. I am just providing the information because if you are going to choose to use an herbal medicine then you should be aware of the side effects as many people do not realize that herbal medications do have side effects some of which can be serious. I strongly recommend talking with your doctor before taking any herbal medication as they often interact with prescription and over the counter medications.

Ginseng (Asian)
Adverse reactions: Headaches, insomnia, dizziness, restlessness, nervousness, hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), diarrhea, vomiting, estrogenic-like effects, such as vaginal bleeding and mastalgia, ginseng abuse syndrome (increased motor and cognitive activity combined with significant diarrhea, nervousness, hypertension, edema, and skin eruptions)
Drug interactions: anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs; stimulants, corticosteroids (such as prednisone); estrogen; lasix (furosemide); Ibuprofen; Phenelzine and other MAO inhibitors.
Cautions: Patients recieving an anticoagullant or an antiplatelet drug and those with manic-depression disorder, psychosis, diabetes, or cerebral vascular disorders should use caution if using this herb.

Clary: Salvia sclarea
Adverse reactions: none known
Interactions: alcohol use
Cautions: Pregnant and breast feeding patients and those planning a pregnacy should avoid use. Patients who have breast cysts, uterine fibroids, or other estrogen related disorders should avoid long term use.

Damiana: Tumera diffusa
Adverse reactions: Insomnia, headache, hallucinations, uterthral mucous membrane irritation, liver injury
Interactions: Antidiabetic medications; Disulfram; metronidazole.
Cautions: Pregnant and breast feeding patients shouldn't use this herb because the effects on them are unknown

Dehydroepiandosterone: DHEA fuel; DHEA powder
Adverse Reactions: Severe mood swings; cardiac arrhythmias; acne; androgenic or masculinizing effects, including hirsutism (excess hair growth), in women: estrogenic effects, including gynecomastia, in men: male pattern baldness.
Interactions: none known

Ginger: Zingiber officinale, zingiber
Adverse reacctions: Central nervous system depression; arrhythmias; heartburn
Interactions: Anticoagulants, other drugs that can increase bleeding time; Disulfiram; metronidazole; Herbs that may increase bleeding time
Cautions: Patients with gallstones or an allergy to ginger shouldn't use it. Patients who are pregnatn or who have a bleeding disorder shouldn't use large amounts of this herb; Patients taking central nervous system depressants or an antiarrhythmic should use caution when using the herb and drug together.

Ginkgo
Adverse reactions: headaches, dizziness, subarachnoid hemorrhage, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, flatulene, diarrhea, bleeding, allergic reaction
Interactions: Anticoagulants; carbamazepine; phenobarbital; phenytoin; disulfram; metronidazole; drugs that lower seizure threshold such as bupropion; MAO inhibiters; SSRI's; Trazodone; garlic; other herbs that increase bleeding time;

Jambolan: Syzgium cumini
Adverse reactions: sedation, hypoglycemia
Interactions: antidiabetics, insulin,
Cautions: Patients who are pregnant or breast feeding shouldn't use this herb because its effects are unknown. Diabetic patients should use caution when using jambolan seed because no data exist to support its use.

Khat: Catha edulis
Adverse reactions: insomnia; hyperthermia; euphoria; increased alertness; garrulousness; hyperactivity; excitement; aggressiveness; anxiety; manic symptoms; malaise; lack of concentration; psychosis; migraine; psychological dependene; cerebral hemorrhage; hypertension; tachycardia; palpitations; heart attack; pupil dilation; decreased intraocular pressure; stommatitis; esophagitis; gastritis; constipation; anorexia; dry mouth; possible oral cancers; peridontal disease; keratosis of the buccal mucosa; cirrhosis of the liver; TMJ dsysfunction; increased respiratory rate; pulmonary edema; diaphoresis; loss of sex drive; impotence; increased susceptibility to infection; disturbed circadian rhythms
Interactions: other amphetamine like drugs;
Cautions; pregnancy; breast feeding; diabetes; hypertension; tachyarrhythmias; glaucoma; migraines; GI disorder; psychotic disorder

Marjoram
Adverse reactions: nausea; vomiting; diarrhea
Interactions: None noted
Cautions: allergies to oregano or thyme; pregnancy; breast feeding; children;

See next post for more

[Sonny McB]

Interesting! Thanks for the post I will have to research these in depth to see what I can find.

[nandm]

Melatonin
Adverse reactions: headache; daytime fatigue; drowsiness; dizziness; irritability; reduced alertness; abdominal cramps;
Interactions: Atenolol; central nervous system depressants; Fluoxetine; Immunosuppressants; Nifedipine; Verapamil; Sedating herbs or supplements, such as 5-HTP, Kava, Valerian root; alcohol use.
Cautions: may worsen depression; immunosuppressants; pregnacy, breast feeding;

Mugwort
Adverse reactions: sensitization through skin contact; hypersensitivity reactions;
Interactions: central nervous system depressants; Disulfram; Metronidazole; alcohol

S-Adenosylmethionine: SAMe;
Adverse reactions: headache; agitation; mania; diarrhea; nausea; GI disturbances
Interactions: Antidepressants; MAO inhibitors

Scented Geranium:
Adverse Reactions: edema; dermatitis; erythema; vesiculation; cheilitis
Interactions: none known
Cautions: Sensitivity to geraniums

Schisandra
Adverse Reactions: restlessness; insomnia; central nervous system depression; heartburn; dyspnea (shortness of breath)
Interactions: amphetamines or other central nervous system stimulants; Barbital; Pentobarbital; Body strengthening drugs; caffeine;
Cautions: Pregnancy; breast feeding; epilepsy; peptic ulcers; fever; high blood pressure

St. John's wort
Adverse Reactions: fatigue; neuropathy; restlessness; headache; digestive complaints; fullness sensation; constipation; diarrhea; nausea; abdominal pain; dry mouth; photosensitivity reactions; pruritus; delayed hypersensitivity
Interactions: Amitriptyline; chemotherapy drugs; Cyclosporine; digoxin; drugs metabolized byt eht cytochrome P-450 emzyme system; hormonal contraceptives; protease inhibitors; amprenavir; indinavir; nelfinavir; ritonavir; saquinavir; theophylline; warfarin; aneshetics; MAO inhibitors; nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors; delavirdine; efavirenz; nevirapine; reserpine; SSRI's; herbs with sedating effects; calamus; calendula; California poppy; capsicum; catnip; celery; couch grass; elecampane; German chamomile; goldenseal; gotu kola; Jamaican dogwood; kava; lemon balm; sage; sassafras; skullcap; shepherd's purse; Siberian ginseng; stinging nettle; valerian ;wild carrot; wild lettuce; Tyramine containing foods such as beer, cheese, dried meats, fava beans, liver yeast, wine
Cautions: Sun exposure; pregnancy; breast feeing; planning pregnancy; transplant patients;

[historyteach]

The fish oil thing is the omega oil. It's the stuff in salmon, sardines, and other "oily" fish. And it's the "good" oil, that raises the "good" cholesterol, so, don't worry about that. Twice a week eat or more for beneficial properties.

Shalom!

[redstuff]

Saint John's Wort has had the greatest amount of research, but it is only effective for minor depression. Some find that a combination of Gingko Biloba (to increase mental allertness) and Saint John's Wort (mood enhancement). works well as long as there are no other drug interactions involved. If depression is major, better stick with one of the medications from the drug companies unfortunately. Any medication that alters brain chemistry like the SSRIs can result in dependence, more of a physical dependence, and in some populations increased risk of suicidal thoughts. Most SSRIs have a black box warning for this now in children because of some bad press about this behavior in said populations. Granted this could happen in anyone with anything because it boils down to chemistry. This is theory, but it likely occurs when used in children because they are at unstable stages of development. Add changes in chemical balances to that and it can be the nail in the coffin for some. Anyway, it's not the same kind of dependence that addictions to alcohol and other substances produce. That notorious mental obsession. It's more of a physical dependence. So when quiting one of those it is suggested to taper off of it to minimize the effects of serotonin withdrawal syndrome. If you stop cold turkey, the symptoms of this can be fairly severe, and are less so if you taper over a longer period of time. These effects last about as long as it takes to get the full benefits of an antidepressant after you start one. About 4-6 weeks. Most commonly is an annoying dizziness/lightheadedness, but thankfully no cravings! For those with moderate to severe depression, it is recommended that they stay on an antidepressant indefinately, so this special population thankfully would not have to worry about the withdrawal symptoms.

[cinderellawkids]

St Johns Wort had me blacking out and fainting, it was quite scarey. Also, please be advised it interacts making birth control ineffective.

I have taken L-Tyrosine and Valerian Root when off my SSRI for a calming effect, they help keep my moods from rapid cycling. Also eating well and a diet high in fish and B vitamins.

When I feel moody, low or anxious I take extra B complex and 2 glasses of water and that often helps

[redstuff]

Originally Posted by cinderellawkids

St Johns Wort interacts making birth control ineffective.

SJW does speed up the metabolism of oral contraceptives, but it does not make them completely ineffective. A backup method would be advised while taking SJW and OCs in combination if using OCs for pregnancy prevention. If using them to control menstrual cycles, they are still effective. Also, since this is an alcohol forum, please keep in mind that valerian root can have harmful effects on the liver.

[nandm]

The omega 3, and vitamin B are probably your safest bet. Both help with depression and their side effects and risks are minute. I take both. The B also helps with memory and the Omega 3's help prevent Alzhiemers and dementia. There was a recent study that linked Omega 3 deficiency and aggression, depression, anxiety, dementia, bipolar, ADD, and several other mental health issues. If I can find the link I will post it. Good luck. I did try St. Johns wort for my depression but I could not handle the side effects. Valarian root increased my anxiety. CQ10 increased my anxiety. So I just take what the doctor orders, cymbalta and it has worked well with minimal side effects.

[pedagogue]

There has been quite a bit of research into herbal/natural alternatives, and some of them have been shown to be helpful for people who might feel a bit down, need to concentrate better, etc. If you go this route, you probably should go to a doctor who works in this area, as they can have just as many issues as medications if they aren't taken in the correct dosing and/or combinations. For instance, St Johns Wart interacts with a number of prescription meds and OTC meds....and can be problematic at too high of a dose. Getting your supplements from a trusted brand is important too, as there is much less quality control for supplements that are not reviewed by the FDA, and the dosing can vary greatly from bottle to bottle.

[kisukona]

Does anyone know if these herbs are safe for us addicts? I mean cannabis and coca are both herbs... I heard that ginseng is not so safe for addicts. Does anyone know if Maca is safe?

[frstnm]

St. John's wort

[ClayTheScribe]

Unfortunately your doctor won't know most natural anti-depressants. I would strongly recommend talking to an herbalist before taking any supplements as some of them can interact badly. And I understand your feelings about anti-depressants and drug companies, but they can also really help folks, so don't knock it if you're struggling. But I get your point.

Some natural mood lifters I've heard of: 5-HTP, GABA, Inositol, St. John's Wort (check interactions), fish oil, sex/masturbating, exercise, creating something, I found a website that encouraged a low glycemic aka low sugar diet (and I in general have found sugar gives me anxiety and makes my depression worse), love, laughter, Valerian root, Kava Kava (may have to go to head shop or online for this). Most of those supplements I can't take because they interact poorly with my psych meds, but I've heard they can do wonders for others.

Just like someone with depression shouldn't rely solely on psych meds, no one should solely rely on supplements. I'd suggest finding a form of therapy that fits for you. There's Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therpay, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy and others. One book I recommend anyone with depression is called The Mindful Way Through Depression. It's CBT techniques combined with mindfulness techniques from the Buddhist discipline. Actually therapy is always what has done the best to lift my mood, more than supplements or meds. So consider. And PM me anytime you want tips on how to go through depression as I've been at it awhile

Take care,

Clayton

[smynthia]

I don't know if it's for depression, but in the past I have taken Flaxseed oil, liquid form, cold pressed ( you need to keep it in the refridgerator) and it made a huge difference in my moods.

[wuzzled]

I watch a show on Fox New on Sunday Mornings called Housecalls. It is hosted by this Dr. Roenthal (i think). anyway, he answers viewers questions and a few weeks ago, someone asked about depression and if there was any non-prescription ways of helping depression. He said to eat 2oz. of Dark Chocolate everyday. There is something in dark chocolate that helps release things in your brain that help with depression.

[ClayTheScribe]

Originally Posted by smynthia

I don't know if it's for depression, but in the past I have taken Flaxseed oil, liquid form, cold pressed ( you need to keep it in the refridgerator) and it made a huge difference in my moods.

Flaxeed oil is good because it contains Omega-3s, which are good for brain function and in battling depression. However, having done some research, the type of Omega-3s you want to help combat depression comes from fish oil. I take 4 fish oil pills a day each containing about 1200 mgs of fish oil and almost 700 mgs of Omega-3 fatty acids. I notice the difference when I stop taking them for a day.

Another thing good for your mood and energy levels is a B complex vitamin and CoQ10. CoQ10 is fairly expensive but worth it for what it does to your mood, memory and energy. It also promotes heart health.

[ClayTheScribe]

Originally Posted by wuzzled

I watch a show on Fox New on Sunday Mornings called Housecalls. It is hosted by this Dr. Roenthal (i think). anyway, he answers viewers questions and a few weeks ago, someone asked about depression and if there was any non-prescription ways of helping depression. He said to eat 2oz. of Dark Chocolate everyday. There is something in dark chocolate that helps release things in your brain that help with depression.

And go for the high quality stuff, not the semi-sweet 65% c.rap from Hershey's. I think I heard 72% cocao or above is best in improving mood. Of course at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day does wonders for depression too.

[certified]

Has anyone tried SAM-E or SAM-E Complete? I find the SAM-E Complete makes a difference in lifting my mood with no side effects. St John's Wort made me manic.

[mikefreak]

I took St John's Wort about ten years ago. I had to go to the hospital, & when the tests came back, they told me that I had had more calcium in me than they had EVER seen, which isn't good. Could'nt figure out why until I read the label on the St. John's Wort- it was about 60% Calcium! I quit taking it, & my levels returned to normal. AND, it didn't work for me anyway.
Just MY two cents............

[otterbearcat]

5 HTP and cod liver or flax seed oil.

[ClayTheScribe]

Originally Posted by otterbearcat

5 HTP and cod liver or flax seed oil.

Actually fish oil has the type of Omega-3 fatty acids that are most beneficial to treating depression, more than flaxseed oil.

[Lilya]

I know Omega 3 is good for depression. I also take shark oil to boost the immune system.

I´ve recently heard of Avena Sativa (green oats). It´s supposed to calm the nervous system, help people sleep and is used for mental exhaustion.