Herbs Growing Alberta Article

Understanding Anxiety Depression and Herbs

"Anxiety and Depression are two very prevalent mental health concerns in today's world. They are no respecters of persons, or of age or gender. There are many ways to treat them. Anxiety, Depression, and herbs may seem like an unlikely trio but in fact, herbs can be very effective in treating anxiety and/or depression. Herbs have long since been used in healing by Shaman and ancient tribes. Most herbal supplements are made with extracts of herbs because this is where the most active ingredients are found. High quality herbal supplements include vitamins, minerals, Amino acids, specialty supplements and of course herbal extracts. Let's take a brief look at a few of the specialty supplements that are found in some herbal supplements. 5-HTP is also known as Hydroxytryptophan an herbal derivative that in the brain is converted to serotonin (a known mood chemical). Do not take more than the recommended dose or with other anti-depressants. A condition called Serotonin Syndrome could develop and it's very dangerous. Alpha-Lipoic Acid is both water and fat soluble. This means it can get into all parts of cells to neutralize free radicals (cells with an extra electron). It supports mental health and increases energy metabolism. Another specialty supplement is L-Carnitine and it functions by ridding the body of toxins. It is used in the treatment of ADHD, Schizophrenia, and Autism. L-Carnitine is also said to extend the life of human cells. Other herbs include St. John's Wort, a herb used to treat mild depression. It is not to be used in treating Bipolar or other severe depressive disorders. Large doses could cause photosensitivity (light sensitivity). Before taking St. John's Wort, check with your pharmacist for any drug interactions that might occur with other medications you might be taking. Evening Primrose Oil is used to treat a gamma-linolenic acid deficiency. It has proven to be beneficial in treating PMS (Pre-menstrual Syndrome). The unfortunate side of this is that it could take up to 90 days to raise gamma-linolenic acid levels in the body to normal levels. Amoryn is a combination of St. John's Wort, 5-HTP, vitamins and other mood related nutrients. Supplements that are balanced with herbs, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients provide the best results. When purchasing herbs or vitamins and mineral supplements, be sure they are of pharmaceutical grade and for the purest supplements - the ingredients metabolic pathway is evaluated at the molecular level and the interactions assessed. Thus, you can be assured of getting supplements that are highly effective and that they actually contain what the label says it does. Depression is or can be difficult to deal with. In order for it to be diagnosed as depression it must have lasted for more than two weeks. Depression is also nothing for anyone to be ashamed of. There is hope and help available."