Vitamin B-3 and Vitamin B-9 can help people with depression because B vitamins help the brain manage moods. Vitamin D, melatonin and St. John's Wort are recommended for seasonal depression. Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium and vitamin C may also help with depression.
Based on available data, black cohosh, chamomile, chasteberry, lavender, passionflower, and saffron appear useful in mitigating anxiety or depression with favorable risk-benefit profiles compared to standard treatments. These may benefit cancer patients by minimizing medication load and accompanying side effects.
Natural antidepressants include SAM-e, St John's Wort, and omega-3-fatty acids, among others. If a person thinks they have symptoms of depression, they should speak to a doctor before trying any natural antidepressants.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to naturally improve mood and decrease depression, according to research studies, including a 2009 analysis of 20 clinical studies. Similarly, a 2015 study concluded that omega-3 acids may help both adults and children with depression.
Higher intakes of both Vitamins B12 and B6 reduced depressive symptoms over time. Vitamin B12 levels were reported to be correlated with melancholic depressive symptoms more than non-melancholic. Supplementation of Vitamin B12 along with anti-depressant therapy greatly improved depressive symptoms.
Increasing serotonin levels can be done naturally. The best ways to do this are eating well, getting out in the sun or supplementing with vitamin D, exercising, taking adaptogens, and managing stress. Serotonin can also be increased synthetically with antidepressants.
Exercise is as effective as antidepressants in some cases. One in 10 adults in the United States struggles with depression, and antidepressant medications are a common way to treat the condition. However, pills aren't the only solution. Research shows that exercise is also an effective treatment.
Zinc is an essential nutrient that has many health benefits, including helping to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression for some people.
While there is no substitute for professional medical treatment by psychologists, psychiatrists, and professional medical treatment by licensed providers, there is evidence that natural remedies such as vitamins or dietary supplements may help relieve symptoms of depression.
Valerian root
Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) is a well-known supplement for anxiety. Greek physicians realized it had calming effects back in 460 B.C. But the results are mixed with valerian root. Some studies show a benefit in treating anxiety but others don't.
The fact is, you don't need pills to reduce depressive symptoms or even to recover from depression. By making a few lifestyle changes at home, your symptoms may decrease significantly or disappear altogether.
Vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions. Low levels of B-12 and other B vitamins such as vitamin B-6 and folate may be linked to depression.
On the basis of current data, we suggest that oral doses of both folic acid (800 microg daily) and vitamin B12 (1 mg daily) should be tried to improve treatment outcome in depression.
Twelve Antidepressant Nutrients relate to the prevention and treatment of depressive disorders: Folate, iron, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), magnesium, potassium, selenium, thiamine, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, and zinc.
Herbal and natural supplements may work well for some people. However, they are not an adequate substitute for conventional treatment or for people who face a risk of suicide or self-harm.
The researchers narrowed down the top 10 raw fruits and vegetables they found to be associated with better mental health and fewer symptoms of depression. These include carrots, dark leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, cucumber, apples, bananas, grapefruit, other citrus fruits, fresh berries, and kiwifruit.
The even better news: Many people respond well to anxiety treatment without medication. They find that their condition can often be managed entirely, or at least in part, with lifestyle changes and holistic therapies.