Alternative Medicine Can Help You Manage the Symptoms of Depression

While there are a number of anti-depressants currently on the market that can alleviate the symptoms of depression, there are pros and cons involved in taking them. While the right type and dosage of a prescription medication can sometimes meet with success for a patient, others may experience side effects that outweigh the benefits. For these reasons, many people choose to try alternative forms of treatment for managing their depression. Here are some of the ways in which you can do this.

A lack of certain vitamins can be a contributing factor to depression. For instance, Vitamin B9 (also known as Folic Acid) is very important for the proper functioning of the brain and therefore plays a significant role in one's mental and emotional health. It also aids in the production of DNA and RNA and is especially crucial during high growth periods, like infancy, adolescence, and pregnancy. Folic acid also helps form red blood cells. A folic acid deficiency can result in (among other things) mental sluggishness and depression.

Vitamin B12 is well known as the "energy vitamin". It is required for the production of red blood cells as well as their maintenance. It also helps in regulating appetite. It prevents mental weakening and helps in the acceleration of thought processes as well as fighting infection and carcinogen agents. People who suffer from depression often respond faster to depression medication when they take Vitamin B12 supplements along with it.

According to traditional Chinese medical theory, depression is a sign of specific organ energy being blocked and/or deficient. If this energy becomes depressed or deficient it can consume and damage the heart energy, which is the basis of the spirit. Some of the ways that depression is treated in Chinese medicine include herbal remedies, massage and acupuncture.

Since the early 1990s, studies have suggested that treating depression with acupuncture has a positive and holistic effect on depressed patients, particularly when combined with psychotherapy and herbal treatments. Acupuncture consists of fine needles inserted along various points in the body, with the purpose of stimulating the body's flow of energy and functionality (known as "qi"). Though traditionally taught as a preventive form of health care, acupuncture has also been proven effective in the treatment of pain and chronic conditions.

St. John's Wort is probably the most well known herbal remedy for depression. Many believe that it is more effective than many prescription medications but with fewer risks. The active compounds in St. John's Wort help naturally reduce feelings of sadness, anxiety and worthlessness, and many who take it also report less exhaustion and fewer headaches. Best of all, the side effects are few and minor in nature.

While licorice has been known for a long time to be an effective herbal treatment for colds, recently recorded data have shown impressive results in the treatment of depression. Licorice is a natural anti-depressant which contains eight monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Licorice can be taken either as a capsule or drunk as a tea. However, if taken in too large a dose or over a lengthy period, there may be side effects like increased blood pressure, headaches and lethargy. Licorice should be supplemented with potassium capsules and increased water intake to offset the side effects, and should only be used on the advice of a licensed practitioner.

These are just some of the alternative forms of treatment that can be helpful in alleviating many of the symptoms of depression. As with anything, everyone will react to them in different ways. It is important to allow a trial period in order to feel the effects of the natural medications, as some will take several weeks to take effect. Always be sure to seek a doctor's advice before you decide to stop taking a prescription medication, and avoid combining prescription medications with natural medications on your own.

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Depression can have far reaching implications for those who suffer from it. It can negatively impact all aspects of a person's life, from their job to their relationships. There are a number of ways of managing depression without medication. Find out more at Depression Help.

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