Low mood or sadness is common feeling and everyone experience it in some phase of their lifetime. If this condition persists for a longer time and is interfering in their daily routine, it needs to be cured immediately. The causes for depression are many and few of them are emotional abuse, getting divorced, sexual abuse, personal disputes, financial issues,  family conflicts and loss of beloved ones etc. There are several other causes and it might depend on the condition of the patient. Clinically you are likely to have few symptoms such as fatigue, decreased energy, guilt, worthlessness, losing interest in hobbies, suicidal tendencies, worthlessness, increased or decreased appetite, helplessness, insomnia, irritability etc. The treatment to cure this condition is with cognitive therapy or by using anti depressants. People also try following few herbal remedies and treatments such as yoga, meditation, biofeedback, relaxation etc.

St. John’s Wort:                                                                                

This is an effective remedy to cure depression. The leaves and flowers of hypericum perforatum can be used to make an extract. The ingredients in it are responsible for antidepressant effects. Hypericin and hyperforin act as a regulator in regulating level of neurotransmitters. This herb is available in varied forms such as capsule, tablet, tea, liquid extract or dry herb. A dosage of300mg thrice a day can be taken along with the meals. This remedy shows its effect after 4 weeks and however, you should not discontinue using this herb all of a sudden. Side effects such as anxiety, sleeplessness, skin rash, tingling etc. are observed. However, you should not follow this remedy during breastfeeding and pregnancy period.

Ginkgo:

The extract of ginkgo leaf can help cure depression. It acts as a neurotransmitter and help treat depression. A dosage of 50mg can be taken thrice a day. It might show some side effects such as allergic reaction, dizziness, stomach upset etc. Breastfeeding and pregnant women or people who are using aspirin or blood thinners should not consume this herb.

Rhodiola:

The root of this herb is effective in treating depression. It helps regulate immune system of body and also the nervous and hormonal systems to alleviate anxiety, depressed mood and insomnia. A dosage of around 400mg can be taken a day for 6 weeks.

Ashwagandha:

The extract of Aswagandha contains several adaptogen compounds which can help alleviate anxiety and symptoms of depression. However, you need to consult your doctor to know about the quantity to be taken per day.  Excess consumption of this herb can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting and abortion as well.

Camu Camu:

Berries of this herb can help treat depression. This herb is available as capsule, juice and powder. However, you need to consume the prescribed quantity of this herb.

It is not advised to consume these herbs without consulting your doctor. You should not try availing self -treatments without consulting your psychiatrist.