A Cup of Tea to Mental Health?

Dealing with depression can leave you feeling very alone. We don't always encounter doctor's with the best bed-side manners, and although, family and friends sincerely try to help, they often can feel helpless. I believe that by reading as much as possible and doing our own research we can aid in our treatment and give ourselves the best chances for regaining our happiness and best lives.

Herbs have always been revered for their healing ability. Western research has now joined with the rest of the world in praising their benefits. Marijuana, cocaine and heroin are known to have extreme psychological effects, that can be addictive and detrimental to our lives. In my quest to finding natural alternatives to the myriad of prescription drugs used to treat anxiety and depression, I have come across in researching some natural herbs that show promise in their healing abilities. These are milder forms of herbs that have been proven to gradually improve the depressed state of mind and overall health.

Herbal remedies can have both a tranquilizing effect as well as a stimulating one. We know that coffee is a stimulant and has been shown as a mild anti-depressant, but drinking too much can have the opposite effect and can make you actually feel worse later in the day. Cutting back on your daily intake can allow you to have the best of both worlds. Less is more when it comes to how many cups of coffee you can enjoy in a day.

Valerian tea can have a relaxing and almost sedative effect when taken in small doses. Health food stores have begun to have a wide variety of teas that contain valerian root and have proved to be quite popular. It's been used for many years to aid in anxiety attacks and promoting a more restful sleep.

Some other herbal antidepressants that are becoming more popular are as follows:

Balm ~ This is an herb that is also known by the name "Melissa", it is part of the mint family of leaves and is commonly used by steeping in boiling water. It can help stimulate brain activity and will relieve an overall sluggish or lethargic feeling.

Damiana ~ An herb stimulant for the nervous system. It is harvested in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Damiana has been shown to add a type of euphoria and dream-like state to enhance sexual performance. It can be an herbal tonic that both men and women, who may be influenced by hormonal conditions. Emotional Balance will return. Will aid in the improvement of your mood. A stress-reliever and an aid in anti-anxiety.

Ginkgo biloba ~ The Chinese have used this herb, which comes from the Ginkgo tree for millions of years. It has been used in relieving asthma, lung congestion and overall promotion of a healthy long life. European research has shown a multitude of benefits using ginkgo biloba including aiding brain function and benefiting mood disorders.

Ginseng ~ Ginseng is a plant that can be taken in many different forms. Teas, powders, and capsules are the usual preparations. Ginseng has a healing power on the human body and can result in a mental and physical stimulating effect. Helps in the prevention of fatigue, stimulates the endocrine glands and improves overall memory.

Gotu kola ~ An herb that is also known as centella, Indian pennywort and mandookaparni. It has been used for centuries by both the Chinese and Indian ayurvedic cultures. This herb sometimes gets mistaken with the kola nut which has a high amount of caffeine. The gotu kola doesn't contain caffeine at all. It has a long list of benefits, some of which include, wound care, better circulation, memory, cancer, as a body detox, burn and scar treatment, skin disorders (psoriasis and eczema), sedative, anti-stress, anti-anxiety and also as an aphrodisiac.

Oats ~ Oats, wild oats or also knows as Groats is an alternative herbal treatment that has been used to calm panic attacks, eczema and to calm a hyperactive child. Taken internally might help treat depression, nervous exhaustion and some menopausal symptoms.

St. John's Wort ~ Other common names include hypericion herb, Klamath weed, and goat weed. There has been scientific evidence supporting St. John's wort's ability to treat mild to moderate depression. This herb is usually taken in tea or tablet form. It is cautioned that St. John's wort might lead to sunlight sensitivity and might worsen anxiety. Also can cause dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction.

It is sometimes difficult to find the right healthcare professionals that will work with you on personalizing your treatment for depression. I have found that knowledge truly is power and that we can better take control of our situation and regain control in taking our lives back.

Herbs are very powerful and warning should be heeded when using, especially if pregnant. If you have any type of medical condition, you should also always consult your doctor when trying any medicinal herbs.