Symptoms of Depression

Depression is usually accompanied with the following signs and symptoms:

	Feeling of intense sadness
	Decreased energy
	Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones
	Lack of enthusiasm
	Restlessness
	irritability
	Detachment
	Pessimism
	Feeling of despair and worthlessness
	Confusion
	Difficulty making decisions
	Limited attention span or lack of concentration
	Sleep disorders, typically insomnia and oversleeping
	Digestive disorders such as constipation and stomachache
	Impotency or decreased libido
	Frequent headaches
	Increased or decreased appetite leading to weight gain and weight loss, respectively
	Thoughts of death, suicide, or self-mutilation
	Inflicting self-harm or attempting suicide

Natural Cures

Depression is typically treated with psychological or behavioral therapy, prescription medicine, or a combination of both of these treatments. There are some natural remedies that may treat or cure the chemical imbalance in the brain. Some natural products and supplements are also used for their positive effect on the depressed individual. However, consult your medical practitioner before using any herbal or alternative method to treat depression. Remember, depression is a serious illness and must be diagnosed correctly and treated by a professional.
Vitamin A

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3, a polyunsaturated fatty acid, is typically found in oily fish like salmon and is also found in certain plant products such as flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and walnuts. Recent studies have shown that individuals who do not consume enough omega-3 fatty acids or who do not maintain a healthy balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids (another essential fatty acid) in their diet may have an increased risk of suffering from depression. The omega-3 fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain cells and help these cells communicate with each other to ensure good mental health. A study of individuals suffering from depression indicated that altering the depressed individuals’ diet to include a serving of fatty fish at least twice or three times each week in meals for five years resulted in a significant reduction in feelings of depression.

Another study demonstrated that individuals who added a daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids (in the form of one to four milligrams of fish oil supplement) to their regular antidepressant treatment had significant improvement in decreasing symptoms of depression including anxiety, sleeping disorders, sadness, decreased libido, and suicidal tendencies.

St John's Wort

St. John’s Wort has been traditionally used to treat mild to moderate depression. It is believed that hypericin, the active ingredient in St. John's Wort, can naturally boost serotonin levels, which helps to lift spirits and ease depression.

According to a medical study, the prescribed dosage is three capsules of St. John's Wort extract each day, 300 milligrams each, standardized to contain 0.3% hypericin. A lighter dose may not be effective but some individuals prefer to begin with a low dosage. Those with smaller body size and teenagers are advised to consume only two capsules. Children under the age of 12 should consume this herb only after consulting a doctor. The medication should be taken for at least six weeks to show noticeable results.

Alternatively, approximately two to four grams of powdered St. John's Wort can be consumed three times each day for at least six weeks. A tea can also be prepared with one to two teaspoons of dried herb. Consume tea twice each day.

Herbal teas and tonics

Herbal teas can aid in treating depression and in alleviating its symptoms. However, some herbs may interact with existing medication and cause complications. It is always recommended to consult a doctor before using alternative remedies including herbal teas. Here are a few recipes for effective herbal teas:

	Boil two cups of water and add one teaspoon of dried rosemary and one teaspoon of dried sage. Steep for five minutes, strain, and sweeten with honey if desired. Drink this tea once each day.
	Brew chamomile, sage, or peppermint tea. Add one or two crushed cloves and a pinch of ginseng powder to it. Steep for a few minutes, strain, and sweeten with honey if desired.
	Mix equal parts of kava kava, lemon balm, valerian root, and St. John's Wort. Boil one cup of water and pour it over one teaspoon of this herb mix. Strain and drink this tea three times each day, preferably one hour after meals.