Many of us feel anxious or depressed at times because of pressures at work, stress at home, or a hectic schedule. The anxiety or low mood is usually temporary and passes without effect to our health or daily lives. But for some, the anxious feelings or depression persist and lead to physical symptoms that can interfere with their ability to cope with daily life.
When this happens, it’s important to consult your doctor because you may be suffering from depression or anxiety disorder. If your symptoms are severe, you may be diagnosed as clinically depressed or anxious and prescribed medications and therapy. But if your symptoms are mild to moderate, there are many alternatives to the prescription medications that often result in adverse side effects and possibly worsening symptoms.
One of the most popular alternative approaches to how to overcome depression and anxiety is the use of herbs. Herbs have been used to treat a variety of anxiety and depression symptoms, like insomnia, lack of concentration, fatigue, and digestion problems, for centuries—much longer than their pharmaceutical counterparts.
Although government agencies aren’t required to test and approve their use, there exists a large body of anecdotal evidence that supports the medicinal properties of herbal preparations in treating many disorders. Some of the most popular herbal remedies for anxiety and depression symptoms are St. Johns wort, kava kava, passionflower, ginseng, and SAM-e. There are several small, scientific studies that have shown the positive benefits of taking these herbs, but St. Johns wort has the largest body of supporting evidence and is widely used.
There is little doubt that herbal alternatives to conventional drug treatment provides relief from anxiety and depression symptoms without the danger of addiction or the adverse reactions, but herbs can pose problems, too. Herbs do come with their own side effects, although they are rare and typically less severe than those of prescription medications. They are known to interact with other medications, so always consult your doctor before taking herbal remedies.
Herbs have been proven very effective in treating the symptoms of mild to moderate forms of anxiety disorder and depression. But before taking any herbal preparations, speak with your doctor about your decision, especially if you have already been prescribed conventional medication. Remember that herbs are drugs, too, so seek professional advice before using more than one herb at a time, as they are known to interact with each other.
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