|
Natural herbal &
homeopathic remedies for people suffering from depression, sadness,
pessimism, helplessness, worthlessness, reduced self-esteem
Depression (Sadness)
HEALTH HERBS & NUTRITION
- REMEDIES - MENTAL HEALTH AND BEHAVIOR - DEPRESSION (SADNESS)
The kind of stressful lives we lead, it is quite normal to
experience mood changes ranging from feeling happy and content to
feeling restless and dissatisfied. These are nothing but the so
called ‘blues’ one gets occasionally. You feel good when things go
your way whereas you feel bad and get worried, guilty and unsure of
yourself when things go wrong. However, people suffering from
depression have feelings of sadness, pessimism, helplessness,
worthlessness, reduced self-esteem, guilt and lack of interest in
almost everything that transcends what is happening in their lives.
This persisting negative attitude, without an obvious cause, usually
invades every aspect of the sufferer’s existence to the extent that
no good news can cheer him up or any positive development or praise
can lift his spirits. Their reduced self-esteem and feeling of
worthlessness makes them believe that they just don’t deserve good
things in life. If the condition intensifies and affects behavior,
it may signify a serious psychiatric illness and may even lead to
suicide. Generally, the sufferer at least experiences major changes
in sleep patterns, concentration, sexual drive and relations with
others.
Although there are many forms and degrees of emotional disturbance
that can be termed depression, clear-cut categories can still be not
determined. This is so as different people react to similar
situations involving grief, unhappiness and anxiety quite
differently. Still, broadly speaking, there are the following few
types of depression.
Reactive depression – this is brought on by emotional stresses like
grief and unhappiness.
Neurotic depression – it occurs when the person’s reaction to a
stressful situation seems out of proportion to the stress involved.
Major or psychotic depression – this occurs without any apparent
cause and is considered the most dangerous type. Around 1% of the
population suffers from it. 4 or more of the below mentioned
symptoms for a duration of at least 2 weeks at a stretch are
considered essential to term the attack as major depression attack.
Otherwise, it is considered as minor.
Remember, the attack may last
more than 20 weeks also, but 2 weeks is the minimum requirement to
term it as major depression.
Dysthymia – a chronic, generally milder form of depression. Symptoms
are similar to major depression but more mild in degree.
Atypical depression – depression accompanied by unusual symptoms,
such as hallucinations, delusions, and physical rigidity
Postpartum depression – experienced by 10 - 20% of women following
delivery.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD) – experienced by 5 - 8% of
women. Depressive symptoms occur a week prior to menstruation and
disappear following menstruation.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) – experienced by 5% of adults, the
majority of whom are women. Seasonal affective disorder or seasonal
depression or winter depression is an extreme form of common
seasonal mood cycles, in which depression develops during the cold
and dark winter months due to light deprivation. It occurs during
the fall-winter season and disappears during the spring-summer
season.
Manic-depressive illness or bipolar affective disorder – here
depression occurs with mania and affects approximately 1% of the
population. In this condition, the patient alternates between
extreme moods of mania and depression, although in some
manic-depressives one aspect, either the mania or the depression;
may be predominant. The patient’s moods cycle back and forth at
varying intervals. During the manic phase, the patient is in either
a euphoric mood or an irritable one. He is generally hyperactive,
may go on extravagant spending sprees and has a firm belief that he
has powers which he does not actually have. Eventually, the person
moves from this phase to either a normal mood or a depressed one.
Some people may have five or more such cycles in a year while others
may show both, manic as well as depressive symptoms, at the same
time in what is known as a ‘mixed bipolar’ state.
Endogenous depression - when depression is not a function of
external events, it is called endogenous. Endogenous depression can
be due to biochemical abnormalities.
|
· |
Persistently feeling sad, anxious and ‘empty’ |
|
· |
Decreased energy, fatigue, and/or a feeling of being
‘slowed down’ |
|
· |
Crying at inappropriate times |
|
· |
Difficulty in concentrating, remembering and in forming
and carrying out plans and ideas |
|
· |
Self-criticism, lack of self-esteem, even self loathing
along with feeling of guilt and helplessness |
|
· |
Lack of appetite and spirit and inability to take
pleasure in life and normal activities, including sex |
|
· |
Weight fluctuation, e.g. significant weight loss or gain
when not dieting (e.g., more than 5% of body weight in a
month) |
|
· |
Restlessness and/or irritability, agitation or
depression in voluntary muscle movements nearly every
day |
|
· |
Sleep disturbances – either insomnia, particularly
waking up frequently during the small hours of the night
(early morning waking), or alternatively sleeping to
excess. Nearly 90% of the depressed people have sleep
disturbances |
|
· |
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts |
|
· |
Low body temperature, low blood pressure, hot flushes
and shivering (in cases of severe depression) |
Anyone who experiences four or more of the above
symptoms for more than two weeks should seek help from a
qualified psychiatrist.
Many people with depression tend to refrain from
disclosing any or all of their symptoms. Proper
diagnosis of depression is the first step toward proper
treatment. Only psychiatrists can prescribe medication,
but psychologists and social workers also use
psychotherapy as a mode of treatment.
Initially, several
blood tests will be performed to determine whether
nutrient deficiencies or underlying medical conditions
(such as a thyroid disorder) may be causing or
contributing to depression. Then, the patient is
subjected to a screening test, such as the Beck
Depression Inventory or the Hamilton Rating Scale, which
consists of about 20 questions for assessing an
individual's risk for depression. Usually, people with
depression are treated as outpatients but
hospitalization is necessary for people who have
attempted suicide, or plan to do so. Hospitalization may
also be necessary under some other specific
circumstances.
Depression may have many causes. It can be triggered by
psychological problems, chronic pain, different physical illnesses
or biological imbalances.
Noradrenaline, serotonin, acetylcholine, and catecholamines (such as
dopamine) are the key chemical messenger systems in our body, i.e.
they allow the brain cells to ‘talk’ to each other. Evidence is
mounting that depressed people may have abnormal levels of these
brain chemicals. These biochemical abnormalities are also reflected
in the fluids of the central nervous system, blood and urine. The
following may alter the levels of these brain chemicals and
contribute to development of depression:
|
· |
Heredity – recently, a gene – SERT, has been identified
that regulates the brain chemical serotonin. Hence, it
has been linked to depression. |
|
· |
Chronic stress (such as from loss, abuse, or deprivation
in early childhood) |
|
· |
Amount of exposure to light, e.g. long dark nights in
winters in northern regions lead to seasonal affective
disorders |
|
· |
Sleep disturbances – studies show that depressed people
have different sleep cycles than non-depressed people |
|
· |
Social isolation |
|
· |
Nutritional deficiencies – more than being the cause
themselves, nutritional deficiencies are attributed to
the aggravation in the depression symptoms |
|
· |
Serious medical conditions, such as heart attack, cancer
or AIDS |
|
· |
A few medications like those for
high blood pressure,
high cholesterol, or
irregular heartbeat |
|
· |
Previous episodes of depression |
|
· |
History of depression running in the family - People
with a history of psychological fragility, getting over
a disappointment or an emotional setback can lead to
depression |
|
· |
Suicide attempt – a previous attempt of suicide made
during a major depressive episode may increase the
chances of similar episode of depression. |
|
· |
Female gender – it is believed that women are more prone
to depression than men. The actual figures may vary as
men report of their depression less and hide it with
alcohol while women are more open and frequent in their
discussion regarding their depression. |
|
· |
Young adulthood or middle age – the highest occurrence
of depression is between the ages of 25 – 45 due to the
much stressed out life in that period. The elderly are
usually at great risk after death of their loved ones,
physical illness, and loss of independence. |
|
· |
Stressful life events – emotional loss such as the death
of a loved one, particularly if the event occurs at a
young age; or disappointment in love |
|
· |
Postpartum period – hormonal changes after delivery
causes depression in 10-20% of the females |
|
· |
Chronic medical conditions, including autoimmune
diseases (such as lupus), cancer, heart disease, chronic
headaches, chronic pain, viral illnesses and chronic
psychological conditions like
anxiety,
obsessive-compulsive disorder, and borderline
personality disorder. Conditions that cause hormonal
changes, such as
thyroid disorders or
menopause, may
also be held responsible for depression. |
|
· |
History of mental, physical or sexual abuse, current or
past alcohol or drug abuse – more than 25% of people
with these kind of addictions have depression |
Medical
practitioners are often quick to prescribe
antidepressants as a first option when treating depression. Ensure
that you research all the options and are aware of all the
side-effects and precautions of taking anti-depressants before
making a decision.
The most commonly prescribed antidepressants are SSRIs
(selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as Prozac and Zoloft;
Tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavin and Tofranil; and MAOIs
(Monoamine oxidase inhibitors) such as Nardil and Marplan.
These all have various side effects which may be quite
distressing to some and they are all required by the FDA to carry a
warning about the increased risk of suicide, hostility, and
agitation.
According to many reports, withdrawal effects are often
experienced when these prescription drugs are discontinued.
While antidepressants may work for some, they should be taken under
medical supervision and will work best if used in conjunction with
other treatment modalities such as cognitive therapy or an exercise
program.
Many
herbal and homeopathic remedies have been shown to significantly
reduce the symptoms of depression without the unwanted side-effects.
The most commonly used as natural remedies for depression are
Hypericum Perforatum (St. John's Wort) which has been called
“nature’s Prozac” and Passiflora which is one of nature's best
natural tranquilizers.
Many people around the world have now turned to this more natural
approach of regaining the subtle balance of brain chemicals and
rejuvenating the body and mind for all round natural health. Natural
remedies for depression that include homeopathic remedies can also
be of great benefit and are free of side effects as well as safe to
use during pregnancy.
|
· |
Natrium sulphate D6 (Nat. phos.) is derived from
sodium sulphate. The principal function of Nat. sulph.
is a cell cleanser and regulator. Optimal levels of Nat.
sulph. in the body will help to ward off those common
feelings of discouragement and dismay – when even the
thought of getting out of bed seems too much to cope
with! Short tempers, sudden furies and dismal moods –
all respond well to Nat. sulph. - an excellent general
mood tonic for people of all ages! |
|
· |
Kalium phosphate D6 (Kali. phos.) is derived from
potassium phosphate. This biochemic tissue salt is a
natural component of all fluids in the body. It acts as
a nerve nutrient and is naturally present in all brain
cells and nerve tissue. Kalium phosphate, also called
Kali. phos., is an excellent nerve tonic and natural
calmative, helping to soothe nerves and lessen the
feeling of ‘being on edge’. Kali. phos. supports a
healthy brain and nervous system and can help relieve
occasional nervous tension and irritability in the body. |
|
· |
Natrium phosphate D6 (Nat. phos.) is derived from
Sodium phosphate. This tissue salt naturally supports
the acid-alkaline balance in human cells. Natrium
phosphate also helps to maintain pH balance in the body,
break up lactic acid, support healthy bile production,
and help with the process of assimilating fatty acids
(important building blocks for cellular health in the
brain). |
|
· |
Passiflora incarnata (also known as
Passion Flower) - This climbing shrub is native to South America but
some of its 450 odd species can be found in colder
climate of North and Central America as well. It grows
up to a height of 10 meters clutching with the help of
tendrils. This medicinal variety is some times confused
with the cultivated variety that produces passion fruit.
All its aerial parts; the stamen, three lobed indented
leaves and bright showy flowers that have white petals
covered over by pinkish violet filaments, have medicinal
properties. The main constituents are maltol, ethyl
maltol, indole alkaloids and various antioxidants.
Mainly maltol and ethyl maltol and to some extent the
antioxidants present impart the sedative property to
this herb for which it is quite famous. In effect it is
so effective yet gentle, that even children are given
preparations based on passionflower for treating
insomnia, anxiety and nervous system originated
palpitations and digestive problems. It is believed that
passionflower works by increasing levels of a chemical
called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA
lowers the activity of some brain cells, resulting in
relaxation. |
|
· |
Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) - This lemon
scented perennial herb originated in Southern Europe but
is now found almost everywhere in the world. It is
usually grown in moist soil in a sunny location and has
a cluster of erect stems with pinkish flowers growing at
the junction of stem and leaves. Its hairy leaves, which
have round indentations and deep veins, consist of
flavonoids, rosmarinic acid and tannins. Its essential
oil is one of the costliest oils due to very low yield.
Lemon balm is usually prescribed for intestinal problems
like indigestion, stomach spasms, flatulence and
belching, as also dyspepsia. This herb benefits people
in sleep problems, depression and nervousness.
Researches have also proved its usefulness in improving
concentration (treating ATD-attention deficit disorder)
and also hyperactivity in small children. |
|
· |
Hypericum perforatum (also known as St. John’s Wort)
- This ancient herb, which has become slightly
controversial of late, is found throughout Europe and
America. It grows wild in woods, hedgerows, meadows and
along roadsides. This perennial weed is difficult to get
rid of once it is planted. It is being used since last
2000 years for treating nervous disorders and burns and
skin irritations. St. John’s wort is distinguished from
other similar looking plants by black spots on the
flower petals and translucent spots on the leaves. The
yellow flowers of this plant give brick red colored oil
which it gets from a pigment known as hypericin. Other
elements contained are flavonoids, tannins and
hyperforin. In today’s world, this herb’s mood lifting
property has gained considerable fame and importance and
its use in modern herbal medications as an
antidepressant and for fighting nervous fatigue,
negativity and sleeping difficulties has increased by
the day. Hypericin is supposed to act similarly as MOAIs-monoamine
oxidase inhibitor antidepressants, and on the other hand
hyperforin, the other important constituent of St John’s
wort, enhances this antidepressant activity by having a
positive effect on the serotonin activity in the brain. |
| |
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
Melancholy Lift
Homeopathic remedy temporarily relieves
feelings of melancholy; sadness; grief
and weepiness.
 |
|
 |
MindSoothe
Promote balanced mood, emotional health
and feelings of wellbeing.
|
|
 |
Mood Tonic
Optimizes nervous system health and
promotes balanced mood and peacefulness.
|
|
Depression needs a very balanced, wholesome diet and this only is
seriously neglected by the sufferers. The generally serious forms of
depression either leave people with no appetite at all, or make them
go on eating binges with a special craving for carbohydrates. All
this creates nutritional deficiencies or imbalances in the victim’s
body.
As the number of vitamins and minerals playing a role in alleviating
or aggravating the depression symptoms is very high, you should talk
at length with your doctor regarding the changes required in your
diet and also, if your body is in need of any nutritional
supplements. Remember, the precise relationship between different
nutrients and the brain’s chemistry is still unclear but
malnourishment or weight problems clearly contribute to morale
spiraling downwards. Some of the useful tips pertaining to nutrition are:
|
· |
Eliminate potential food allergens – If you suspect that
there is a link between food sensitivity and your state
of mind, try eliminating the allergen foods from your
diet to see if this brings relief. The usual suspects
are dairy products, wheat (gluten), corn, preservatives,
and food additives. Your doctor may also suggest tests
for food sensitivities. |
|
· |
Eat antioxidant rich foods, including fruits (such as
blueberries, cherries, oranges and tomatoes), and
vegetables (such as squash and bell peppers). |
|
· |
Vitamin B6 is believed to work in the brain similar to
valium-like drugs - hence its importance in your diet as
food or
as supplement. Mainly, women taking oral contraceptives
or with premenstrual tension or going through menopause
require good amount of B6. Good dietary sources of
vitamin B6 are chicken, turkey, tuna, salmon, shrimp,
beef liver, lentils, soybeans, nuts, avocados, bananas,
carrots, brown rice, bran, pulses, sunflower seeds,
wheat germ, and whole-grain flour. |
|
· |
Inositol, which is a part of the vitamin B-complex, is
found in low levels in people suffering from depression.
It helps the nervous system function properly. Its
dietary form is phytate and its rich sources include
nuts, beans, wheat and wheat bran, cantaloupe, citrus
fruits like oranges and meat. |
|
· |
Eat foods high in B-vitamins and calcium, such as
almonds, beans, whole grains (if no allergy), dark leafy
greens (such as spinach and kale), and sea vegetables
such as kelp and dulse (a coarse seaweed). |
|
· |
Avoid refined foods, such as white breads, pastas, and
especially sugar. |
|
· |
Don’t go on an eating binge as it might make you feel
good at that moment, but will add depressing inches to
your waistline. |
|
· |
Eat fewer red meats and more lean meats, cold-water
fish, tofu (soy, if no allergy), or beans for protein. |
|
· |
Use healthy oils for cooking, such as olive oil or
vegetable oil. |
|
· |
Reduce or eliminate trans-fatty acids, found in
commercially baked goods such as cookies, crackers,
cakes, French fries, onion rings, donuts, processed
foods, and margarine. |
|
· |
Whole grains and pulses, lean meat, fresh fruits and
vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, melon,
oranges, berries and dried fruits shall take care of
your calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, copper, zinc,
vitamin C and B vitamins deficiency. |
|
· |
Avoid other stimulants like alcohol and tobacco. Consumption of more than a drink or two of alcohol may
have an adverse effect on the mood and will also kill your
appetite, thereby depriving you of the much needed
dietary nutrients. |
|
· |
Drink 6 - 8 glasses of filtered water daily.
|
|
· |
First and foremost, one has to realize that feeling a
little bad is no big deal. You have to understand that
these feelings are temporary and you don’t need to feel
sadder just because you are sad. |
|
· |
Be active. Do whatever you feel like or if you don’t
feel like doing anything. Do what you used to feel doing
like during happier times. Make sure, you leave the
house if you are alone. |
|
· |
Share your feelings with someone; a friend, family,
doctor, someone elder you respect, any body. It will
definitely lift some burden off your chest and mind. |
|
· |
Crying alone or while talking to someone with respect to
your problem is not something you should be ashamed
about. Crying releases the tension and helps you in
thinking pragmatically. Then you can sit down and
analyze the situation and pinpoint the source of your
depression. This will help you and others to find out a
solution. |
|
· |
Exercising regularly not only keeps you fit physically,
but also mentally. It discharges your tensions quite
easily as it increases the body’s production of
endorphins—chemical substances that can relieve
depression. |
|
· |
Acupuncture may improve depression by affecting the
synthesis of neurotransmitters that control mood.
Electro-acupuncture (which involves the application of a
small electrical current through acupuncture needles)
has been found to be equally effective as antidepressant
drug therapy without causing side effects. |
|
· |
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - the goal of
cognitive therapy, a kind of psychotherapy, is to allow
you to control your fear and anxiety, and a qualified
psychotherapist can help you learn techniques in this
regard. Basically, you learn to identify and change
distorted perceptions about yourself and adapt new
behaviors to better cope with the world around you. Many
people who are depressed seek counseling with a
psychologist, social worker, psychiatrist, or other form
of counselor. Some researches have proven that cognitive
behavior therapy is at least as effective as drug
therapy. Other forms of psychotherapies which are also
considered effective as a treatment for depression are
psychodynamic psychotherapy which is based on Freud's
theories about unresolved conflicts in childhood and
depression as a grief process, interpersonal therapy
which acknowledges childhood roots of depression, but
focuses on current problems contributing to depression
and is considered very effective and supportive
psychotherapy which comprises nonjudgmental advice,
attention, and sympathy, and this approach may improve
compliance with taking medication. |
|
· |
Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) - a rhythmic breathing
technique - may be an effective alternative to
antidepressant drugs as an initial treatment for people
with clinical depression. Daily 45-minute SKY sessions,
six days per week are recommended. SKY technique is
taught by the Art of Living Foundation. |
|
· |
Taking regular massage decreases stress hormone levels
and symptoms of depression. This is particularly true in
depressed adolescent mothers, children hospitalized for
depression, and women with eating disorders. Strangely,
giving massage may also help relieve tension in the
elderly when they massaged infants. A main constituent
of massage therapy is aromatherapy, or the use of
essential oils in massage therapy. The smells of the
oils extract positive emotions through the limbic
system-the area of the brain responsible for memories
and emotions.
|
|
|
|
|
Melancholy Lift
Homeopathic remedy temporarily relieves
feelings of melancholy; sadness; grief
and weepiness.
|
|
|
MindSoothe
Promote balanced mood, emotional health
and feelings of wellbeing.
|
|
|
Mood Tonic
Optimizes nervous system health and
promotes balanced mood and peacefulness.
|
|
|
|
