1/7
The World Health Organization reported that that more than 70% of the world's population uses unconventional medicine for various ailments. Depression is a common mental illness, however, anti-depressants have a wide range of side effects. Instead, you could add these natural remedies to your routine along with your regular treatment.
2/7
Saffron: Researchers have found that saffron can improve symptoms of depression in adults with major depressive disorder [1]. Saffron is known to have an antidepressant quality as it modulates the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, including serotonin (a mood-elevating neurotransmitter). Around 30 mg of saffron a day is found to be effective.
3/7
Ginseng: Red ginseng has been found to significantly reduce symptoms of depression. In a study, it was found that women between the ages of 18-65 years suffering from residual symptoms of major depression were given 3 gms of ginseng a day [2]. You can have ginseng tea or even consume the powdered form.
4/7
Lavender: Other than treating insomnia, lavender fragrance has been found to have a beneficial effect on depression [3]. You can either use lavender oil by adding a few drops to your bath water or even drink lavender tea to treat depression and fatigue [4]. You could also use lavender essential oil in a diffuser.
5/7
Omega-3 fatty acids: Around 70 adult patients suffering from persistent depression were given 1 gm of omega-3 fatty acids for 12 weeks. Researchers found that 53% of them showed noticeable improvement in their mood as there was a significant decrease in experiences feelings of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts among them [5]. You can add flaxseeds and walnuts to your diet as one quarter of a cup of each contains 6.3 g and 2.7 g of omega-3 respectively.
6/7
St. John’s wort: It is a medicinal plant and Germans use its flowers and leaves are commonly used for treating depression. Researchers have found that the plant extract can act as muscle relaxants and also regulate serotonin receptors in the brain, which contributes to one’s wellbeing and happiness [6]. You could use the dried herb as tea or it is even available in a capsule or liquid form, but only after consulting your doctor.
7/7
Chamomile: Another medicinal herb, chamomile is effective in fighting against symptoms of depression as researchers have found that it can stimulate the release of feel good hormones like dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenalin, which have a calming effect [7]. Chamomile can be used the same way as lavender.
