Natural Anti-Depressants - St Johns Wort, Kava Kava And Lemon Balm

Depression is a much bigger and widespread problem than many would believe. It is estimated that more than 1 in 20 Americans will develop depression in the next 12 months but most sufferers attempt to hide the problem from friends, family and physicians. This makes it incredibly difficult to diagnose unless you are specifically looking for the symptoms. Most sufferers find it difficult to diagnose depression and often attribute it to "feeling a bit down". There is a big difference between feeling down and having depression. If you or someone close to you is suffering from depression it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

The Safe Use Of Natural Remedies

As well as psychological and medical treatment there are also a number of natural remedies that can help to eliminate or, at least, reduce stress and depression. Introducing these supplements, vitamins or nutrients into your diet it can be possible to avoid prolonged depression. Always check for interactions with any prescription drug you may be taking and, if necessary, consult your physician to ask their opinion of a particular natural remedy and whether you are safe to take it.

St Johns Wort

St Johns Wort is one of the most popular and effective of herbs to help combat depression. It has become increasingly popular over the last few years, as more and more people have been made aware of its effectiveness. St Johns Wort inhibits monoamine oxidase, a chemical within the human body that is known to encourage depression. However, St Johns Wort does much more than this. It can help to restore self-esteem, confidence and regular sleeping patterns making it not only useful for beating depression but restoring physical health as well. It also increases appetite and restores interest in life.

St Johns Wort is available in capsule, tea, tincture and oil form. There are some recorded precautions that need to be taken when considering taking St Johns Wort. Cases of photosensitivity in those with fair skin have been reported so care should be taken in the sun. You should also avoid combining St Johns Wort with cold and flu remedies as well as other prescription based anti depressants. Avoid using St Johns Wort if pregnant or breast-feeding.

Kava Kava

Kava Kava is another excellent product that can help to beat stress and anxiety. It is particularly effective in the battle against physical stress. Kava Kava promotes feelings of calm relaxation without the drowsiness that can be associated with prescription drugs and even other herbal remedies. Depending on the patient, feelings of euphoria and elation may also be experienced but this is experienced in the minority of cases.

Lemon Balm

Due to its calming aroma and effects, lemon balm is also popular as a herbal anti depressant. Lemon balm has been used for centuries as an antibacterial ointment and also as an infusion or a tea to help calm nerves and settle patients. Lemon balm can easily be grown in gardens throughout the world and by tearing the leaves, adding honey and hot water the perfect, natural relaxant can be made.

A Final Word On Natural Remedies

Nature produces many different herbs and more than a fare share of these can help with depression, stress and anxiety. While some care should always be taken regarding drug interactions and the misuse they are generally considered safe for regular consumption and use. If you are in any doubt then consult your physician; something you should definitely do if you are taking any form pf prescription drug.

 

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Lemon Balm Herb Speeds the Healing of Wounds, Relieves Pain and More

Have you ever heard of Melissa officinalis? It is the official name for the herb lemon balm but is also called bee balm, Melissa, sweet balm, and cure-all. Lemon balm is a member of the popular mint family from the Mediterranean region. Its leaves give off a strong lemon scent when rubbed. It's a hardy perennial that grows into a bush about 24 inches round and can be cut two or three times during a growing season. Lemon Balm looks very similar to mint, with light green, ridged leaves.

Though a native to southern Europe, lemon balm is now found growing throughout the world. The lemony smell and pretty white flowers of the lemon balm plant have led to its widespread cultivation in gardens. Its leaves, stems, and flowers have all been used for centuries. Quotes from literature as far back as the 1600's mention lemon balm by name, speaking of its power in exaggerated prose.

The tannins and polyphenols in lemon balm extracts are both antibacterial and antiviral. It has been used to help treat strep, mumps, and most notably, herpes. Creams and ointments that include lemon balm have helped to heal cold sores or genital sores induced by the herpes simplex virus. However, unlike prescription drugs, lemon balm doesn't cause unpleasant side effects like nausea, vomiting, and irregular menstruation. Its antiviral properties may be due to the caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid compounds it contains.

Lemon balm not only helps speed the healing of wounds, but also contains eugenol, a natural pain reliever. Studies have shown that the fragrance of the herb has a sedating effect, which lines up with its traditional use for treatment of nervous disorders such as chronic nervousness, anxiety, and slight insomnia. Lemon balm can be compared with mint in the soothing effect it has on the stomach and the positive effect it has on the digestive system. Its sedative properties is found specifically in some of the chemicals it contains in volatile oils, including citronellal and citrals A and B.

Extract from lemon balm has been administered intravenously to help normalize overactive thyroid function, particularly in those who have a hyperactive condition called Graves' disease. Phytochemicals in the herb are thought to keep the antibodies that cause Graves' disease and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from attaching to thyroid gland receptors. Lemon balm may also help to block some of the secretion of the thyroid gland and its ability to release hormones in the body. Note: If you are currently on thyroid medication, taking lemon balm may cause interaction problems with your prescribed medications.

Lemon balm has been shown to help relax spasms affecting the smooth muscles (such as those in the uterus and intestines) in the body. It is therefore sometimes recommended for treatment of painful cramping caused by conditions such as premenstrual syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome. It may also improve memory and lengthen attention span in patients who suffer from Alzheimer's disease. Yet another case study showed the use of lemon balm in aromatherapy, applying or inhaling fragrances to affect the mood. One person shared they make floor cleaner by mixing three-parts water to one-part white vinegar, then add a few sprigs of crushed lemon balm. The fragrance masks the vinegar smell and the lemon may add some antiseptic qualities.

You can enjoy the benefits of lemon balm through many means, including creams, tablets, capsules, teas, tinctures, and extracts. The typical dosage is 1 teaspoon of the extract daily, or 1 1/2 teaspoons of tincture. You can also add 1 to 3 teaspoons of the dried lemon balm leaves to a cup of hot water to make a homemade tea. You can also add its dried leaves to the bath. Use it if you have difficulty sleeping or to reduce stomach problems such as flatulence, or bloating. For children, lemon balm may be used topically on cold sores. The dosage would be the same as the recommendations for this use in adults. For internal use, adjust the recommended adult dose to account for the child's weight (above based on 150 lb. adult.

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