Five Best Herbs That Fight Depression Depression is a devastating psychiatric problem affecting millions of people around the world. Most of them are convinced that the only way to improve their mood and relieve the symptoms of depression. Truth be told, there are several alternative herbal remedies that have been proven by studies to actually work in fighting depression. What’s more, these herbs do not cause the dangerous side effects of anti-depressants that range from nausea to suicidal tendencies. On our list of the five best herbs for depression include St. John’s Wort, Ginseng, Ashwagandha, Rhodiola Rosea, and Holy Basil.
1. St. John’s Wort . In Germany, St. John’s Wort is used by doctors for the treatment of mild to moderate depression. This herb that naturally grows in the meadows of European countries is found to contain very active compounds that enhance mood and reacts well to people. St. John’s Wort is rich in hyperforin, hypericin, and pseudohypericin. In clinical tests, St. John’s Wort was found to regulate levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, ensuring that it doesn’t go below normal levels and cause depression. St. John’s Wort delays the reabsorption of serotonin as well as dopamine and norepinephrine so more of them are available in the brain to influence positive mood. The mood support benefits of St. John’s Wort are also found useful for women during PMS and menopause and a wide range of mental health conditions. 2. Ginseng . Ginseng is considered very effective adaptogens, substances that help the body and mind to fight stress. Ginseng roots are rich in essential nutrients, but more importantly, of ginsenosides that influences the adrenal glands to produce hormones that naturally fight stress. Ginseng supplements are known to support energy, mental sharpness, and libido in people with depression.