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Depression Relief Depression Naturally with Herbs
Depression plagues nearly 11 million Americans. Some estimates
claim that about 50 million Americans will suffer from depression
at some time in their lives. The World Health Organization (WHO)
projects that by 2020 depression will be the second most disabling
illness.
Depression is not a state of mind one can "snap out of." It is a disorder. Signs of depression include unreasonable feelings of sorrow, guilt, discouragement, powerlessness, loss of appetite, altered sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, lethargy, and suicidal thoughts. If you are suffering from depression, do not hesitate to seek professional help. In addition to counseling, there are medications that are effective against depression, however, be watchful for side effects. Dr. Martin Teicher, a Harvard researcher, has noted that the side effects of Prozac can include violent, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and insomnia. If you experience side effects, consult your doctor. Low blood sugar, food allergies, and lack of exercise often contribute to depression. Studies show between 30 and 85 percent of those suffering from depression also have food allergies. Dr. Andrew Weil states that the best single treatment for depression is vigorous, regular aerobic exercise. He also advises avoiding alcohol and all unnecessary drugs, and making dietary improvements. Depression is often accompanied by anxiety, stress and insomnia. Seasonal
Affective Disorder (SAD) is a particular kind of depression that
affects some people in the darker, winter months. It is
often accompanied by sleep disturbances. If you are having
difficulty
with your sleep patterns, you may want to try melatonin. SAD
has been successfully treated with light therapy. You may
want to consult
your physician or a specialist in light therapy for assistance.
St. John's Wort (Concentrate) (100 capsules) $27.50 St. John's Wort (Concentrate) (60 capsules) $18.50 St. John's Wort (Concentrate, Time Release) (60 capsules) $21.50 In an article published in the British Medical Journal, researchers reported their analysis of 23 studies comparing the use of St. John's Wort, standard antidepressants and a placebo on 1,757 people with mild to moderate depression. When the results were analyzed, extracts of the herb performed significantly better than the placebo and as well as standard antidepressants after an average of six weeks of treatment. St. John's Wort seems to increase dopamine production in the brain. It provides feelings of well-being even to those who aren't depressed. Dr. Whitaker states that St. John's Wort has been shown to greatly improve sleep quality and is without significant side effects. St. John's Wort (Concentrate) contains hypericin, a natural compound that has been shown in studies to help relieve depression without the side effects of many antidepressants. Each capsule contains 1 mg. of hypericin, standardized to 0.3 percent. Dr. Whitaker suggests 2 to 3 capsules (standardized to 0.3 percent) daily. While other brands are certainly less expensive, do they contain as much hypericin (the active ingredient)? NSP includes passion flower in this formula for its calming effect. Note - St. John's Wort may cause sensitivity in the sun. Exercise care in the summer months. Lobelia/St. John's Wort (100 capsules) $23.70 Kudzu/St. John's Wort (Concentrate) (100 capsules) $28.20 Kava Kava (Concentrate) (60 capsules) $23.70 Passion Flower (100 capsules) $11.70 |
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