|
cont. from
While many herbal remedies have been used traditionally to treat depression,
the most substantial amount of scientific research has involved the following
herb:
St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Several studies indicate that
St. John's wort may be as effective as
tricyclic antidepressants, but with fewer side effects when treating mild to
moderate depression (not severe or major depression). Reported side effects
include gastrointestinal complaints, fatigue, and oversensitivity to sunlight.
Because of potential adverse interactions, St. John's wort should not be taken
in conjunction with other antidepressants or with certain medications, including
indinivir (a protease inhibitor used for HIV), oral contraceptives,
theophylline, warfarin, digoxin, reserpine, cyclosporine, and loperamide.
Although they have yet to be scientifically evaluated for their use in
treating depression, the following are a few examples of herbs that may be
recommended by professional herbalists for depression or its related symptoms:
top
Two randomized, controlled, clinical trials suggest that electroacupuncture
may reduce symptoms of depression as effectively as amitryptiline, a tricyclic
antidepressant medication. Electroacupuncture involves the application of a
small electrical current through
acupuncture needles. Other studies suggest that
acupuncture may be effective for people with mild depression and for those with
depression related to a chronic medical illness. Further research is warranted
in this area.
Although very few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific
homeopathic therapies, professional homeopaths may consider the following
remedies to alleviate the symptoms of depression based on their knowledge and
experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's
constitutional type. A constitutional type is defined as a person's physical,
emotional, and psychological makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of
these factors when determining the most appropriate treatment for each
individual.
- Ignatia -- for a sudden sense of grief or disappointment following the death
of a loved one, the end of a romantic relationship, or an unexpected loss of
one's job; this remedy is most appropriate for individuals who are very sad and
have frequent crying spells
- Natrum muriaticum -- for grief following the death
of a loved one or sadness from the end of a romantic relationship; this remedy
is most appropriate for individuals who grieve silently and desire to be alone,
avoid being comforted, and are reluctant to cry in public
top
Massage and Physical Therapy
Studies of formerly depressed adolescent mothers, children hospitalized for
depression, and women with eating disorders, suggest that massage decreases
stress hormone levels, feelings of anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Giving
massage may also be beneficial for people who are depressed. Elderly volunteers
with depression showed notable improvement in their symptoms when they massaged
infants.
Aromatherapy, or the use of essential oils in massage therapy, may also be of
value as a supplemental treatment for depression. Theoretically, the smells of
the oils elicit positive emotions through the limbic system (the area of the
brain responsible for memories and emotions). However, the benefits of
aromatherapy appear to be related to the relaxation effects of the treatment as
well as to the recipient's belief that the treatment will be beneficial.
Essential oils used during massage for depression are quite varied and include:
- Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
- Orange (Citrus aurantium)
- Sandalwood (Santalum
album)
-
Lemon (Citrus limonis)
- Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)
- Sage (Salvia officinalis)
- Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
continue . section table of contents
top .
pages 1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8 .
send to friend .
depression site map
Reviewed: 03/2006
|
|
del.icio.us
Digg
Furl
Google
StumbleUpon
Yahoo