At any given time, close to 20 million adults in the United States suffer from a medical illness that sends your body and mind on a roller coaster ride. Contrary to popular belief, you just can’t turn depression on and off like a light switch. The condition affects the way you think and how you treat others. Sometimes, your life feels out of control, as emotional and physical problems begin to mount.

If you suffer from depression, don’t worry, as you are not alone – this illness is one of the most common health conditions in the world and there are natural remedies for you to consider.

Causes and Symptoms

Doctors have been unable to pinpoint the exact cause of depression, but research suggests that a collection of factors (ranging from biochemical to environmental to genetic) is to blame [1]. Common causes of the illness are often attributed to:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Biological family members with the condition
• Specific genes
• Life experiences, such as losing a loved one or financial troubles
• High stress levels

When it comes to symptoms of depression, keep in mind that indicators of the illness vary from person to person. Age and gender will affect the kind of depression symptoms that arise. Some people encounter glaring symptoms that alert a severe problem, while others feel pretty unhappy and can’t really explain why. Typical signs and symptoms to consider include: unexplainable crying fits, sleep issues, feeling hopeless, irritability, restlessness, feeling worthless, easily annoyed, easily broken concentration, thoughts of suicide, and physical responses (like headaches or back pain).

Depression Natural Remedies

a) St John’s Wort:

The power of this herb possesses an ancient allure to individuals battling depression. In folk medicine, this natural remedy is used to combat nervousness, worry, sadness, and poor sleep patterns. Over the years, an assortment of clinical trials has focused on the effectiveness of St John’s Wort for mild to moderate cases of depression. You can find this herb in health food stores, pharmacies, and online – as a liquid extract, tea, tablet, or capsule. Usually, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks to see a real difference when taking St John’s Wort for this condition.

b) Cold Water Fish:

Take advantage of fish oil capsules made from cold-water fish (like salmon, anchovies, and sardines), which contain omega-3 fatty acids – a decent source of natural antidepressants.

c) Green Leafy Vegetables:

Since people who show a deficiency in vitamin B often get depressed, eating foods with folic acid can fight this condition. Suitable selections include fruit, vegetables, beans, and fortified grains.

d) Lemon Balm and Skullcap:

Create an infusion using lemon balm or skullcap, drinking up to four cups of the concoction per day.

e) Withania:

If your depression arises due to long-term stress or recovering from a chronic illness, it is suggested to incorporate this tonic herb in your treatment regimen [2].

f) Magnesium:

The body needs magnesium to produce serotonin, which helps transmit body temperature, metabolism, aggressive, and mood. Depression has been linked to low serotonin levels. Increase the amount of magnesium that you receive by incorporating more nuts, whole grains, and green vegetables into your diet.

g) Acupuncture:

Thanks to an ancient Chinese healing remedy, patients with depression have relied on tiny needles to awaken specific points on the body (called meridians) to control their symptoms. Acupuncture is known to act as an antidepressant that can lift the spirits, improve your mood and combat additional symptoms, like insomnia, fatigue, and anxiety.

h) Meditation:

When treating depression, low stress levels are ideal. With meditation, an individual can improve their mood, as well as combat stress and anxiety. One of the simplest forms of meditation is to quietly sit with closed eyes, which allows one to concentrate on breathing.

i) Exercise:

Improve your mood by embracing regular exercise into your life. Take an aerobics class, briskly walk during lunchtime, or take up tennis lessons. Exercise (especially aerobic activity) releases chemicals in the brain that will help elevate your mood.

j) Limit or Avoid Coffee and Alcohol:

Caffeine and alcohol have a knack for really dampening the mood. Despite relaxing effects and boosts of energy, the ultimate results of these kinds of beverages do not last long. Many people experience mood swings, trouble sleeping, anxiety, and depression.

k) Reduce Sugar Intake:

When blood sugar levels rise, moods are known to shift for the worst. While sweet treats are good for the moment, they can certainly affect the way you feel at a later time.

[1] http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/depression/DS00175/DSECTION=causes
[2] The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants by Andrew Chevallier; pg. 308.