Natural Remedies for Depression - What Your Doctor Will Not Tell You

One of the most widely prescribed natural remedies for depression in Europe is St. John's Wort which is particularly effective in mild to moderate depression. Many people are surprised to learn that this herb is prescribed for up to 50% of depression cases in Germany while Prozac is not popular at all. It comes in at a mere 2%! I can bet fairly safely that your medical adviser will not know this or will not even be convinced that a herbal remedy combined with other natural remedies for depression is the way to go. But there have been pioneers in every century!

Let us look at why a natural remedy for depression could and maybe should , in many cases, replace anti-depressants. Why do you think the FDA put black box warnings (the most serious risk) on the boxes of these medications? Why are there warnings on cigarette packets? Because there are grave risks to health. In the case of anti-depressants, there is a risk in younger patients (up to the age of 24!) of increasing suicidal thoughts and depression, agitation and insomnia and a withdrawal from social situations. There are a whole list of side effects as well although they are not in the black box. However the side effects from these meds are well known and can include nausea, blurred vision, constipation and loss of libido.

Let us have a look at other natural remedies for depression. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is often tried with great success. The patient, with the help of the therapist is trained to change his or her whole way of thinking. In this way, negative thinking which inevitably leads to depression and hopelessness can be changed. Sometimes, though, especially in cases of severe depression, this kind of therapy will not give great results. Other cases can be treated with CBT in combination with some medication.

One of the favorite natural remedies for depression is increasing foods with Omega3 or fatty acids which can improve overall health as well as combating depression. Studies have shown that populations with higher omega 3s in their diets have much fewer cases of depression. It can help reduce heart disease, osteoporosis and arthritis so it is a wonderful supplement to add to anyone's diet.

In choosing a natural remedy for depression, such as a herbal one, tell your doctor that you want to try it and ask for some advice especially if you are already on anti depressants.