Feeling a tiny down in the dumps? Before you head to the freezer to down a pint tor two of Ben and Jerry’s, think about a natural remedy for mild depression. While some foods have been proven to improve your mood, some herbal cures for depression may also give some relief. I should confess that I was ecstatic to find that dark chocolate basically does lower your cortisol levels, but they only advocate tiny amounts. There are several herbs that have been used alone or in conjunction with other medications to relieve depression. Almost all herbs for depression are available over the counter and could be beneficial.

St. John’s Wort has been utilized for millenia to treat hysteria and depression. The flowers contain hypericin, a mood lifting ingredient. St. John’s Wort also has a mild sedative effect and can help with sleeplessness. Patients on warfarin, digoxin, HIV drugs and some chemo drugs should not use St. John’s Wort unless a doctor prescribes it. It might also interact with anithistamines and will be dropped 7 days before undertaking anesthesia.

Valerian is a powerful smelling root from which valium was derived. It is a potent calmative and care should be taken not to use it for more than three weeks for insomnia associated with anxiety. It may disrupt normal sleep cycles.

Ginkgo Biloba is used to relieve depression especially in the elderly. It increases blood flow to the brain and other parts sofa the body. It’s a powerful mood suppressant and antioxidising agent. Improved circulation is alleged to improve memory and presumably help with signs of Alzheimer’s patients.

Passionflower has a calming effect on the nervous system and is used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Because it is reputed to be gentle and nonhabit forming, it is sometimes used to treat withdrawal from nicotine, opiates, and alcohol.

Skullcap is used to treat tension due to long term stress or disease. It is also used for headaches and mild pain relief. Because of its relaxing properties, it may cause drowsiness in some users.

Important oils of rosemary, lemon, bergamot, sage, lavender and sandalwood are typically used with herbs for depression. Aromatherapy often helps patients who are depressed.

Keep in mind that herbal remedies may not be answer for grim depression. Prescription medications may be required to alleviate the symptoms of clinical depression. Herbs for depression are not subject to the same laws governing prescription drugs, so use with caution and always consult your physician before taking any herbal preparations.