The name of these hormones comes from the term "endogenous morphine", they are the bodies natural opiates. As well as exercise, sunlight, acts of kindness, laughter, music, dancing, massage, acupuncture, meditation, sex, spicy food and a good cry.

Too much or too little Noradrenalin can cause depression, anxiety and addiction. A surge of norepinephrine can cause feelings of happiness and euphoria. However, it can also lead to panic attacks, high blood pressure, and hyperactivity. It has also been reported to influence mood, appetite and exploratory behavior.

Cortisol - critical for healthy stress response, when levels become chronically elevated it can result in many symptoms including anxiety, depression, adrenal fatigue, suppressed immunity and hormone imbalance.

Low levels may also cause physiological disturbance. Herbs which support the adrenals eg. MUCUNA — one of the only naturally occurring and certainly most concentrated sources of L-dopa the precursor to dompamine.

Mucuna extract has been shown to increase not only dopamine concentrations, but also other neurotransmitters that affect mood, such as serotonin and norepinephrine too. It also contains DMT. REISHI — Significantly elevates mood and sense of wellbeing by protecting dopaminergic neuron degeneration demonstrated in clinical trials.

HE SHOU WU — Research has found that of all herbs, he shou wu is one of the greatest inhibitors of MAO activity. Which in turn allows for a greater amount of dopamine and other feel good neurotransmitters to be available in our system.

RHODIOLA - Induces feelings of relaxation and decreases anxiety by stimulating the release of endorphins and reducing cortisol levels significantly. It also stimulates the production of dopamine and serotonin as well as increasing the sensitivity of neurons to these neurotransmitters.

In animal studies, Rhodiola has also been shown to help repair damaged neurons in the hippocampus, a region of the brain considered to be the center for emotion, memory and the autonomic nervous system regulation.

In a study published in the "Nordic Journal of Psychiatry", it was found to significantly reduce depression in patients with mild to moderate depression. Please note some people have idiosyncratic reactions to this herb and find it too stimulating.

In this case a lower dosage may be suitable, sometimes a substitute may be needed. This adaptogenic berry also fights the adrenal fatigue that is linked to high stress levels.

SHATAVARI - Shatavari stimulates and balances the production of happy hormones; endorphins, serotonin and dopamine - meaning it can greatly reduce mood swings, irritablility and menopause induced depression.

GOTU KOLA - Reduces anxiety , possibly through interacting with the relaxation-promoting neurotransmitter GABA, and has been demonstrated to increase levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in rat brains.

It also lowers cortisol. ROSE — Although there a few if any clinical studies on the effects of Rose on mood, it is used traditionally in Ayurveda to soothe hot emotions such as anger and soften the heart.

TULSI - Tulsi has been shown to prevent stress-induced changes in blood levels of cortisol. GINKGO - The active compounds including kaempferol in Ginkgo are potent monoamine oxidase inhibitors [7] and so regulate the amount of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain.

As we age MAO levels increase causing dopamine levels to fall. Research has shown that inhibition of this enzyme preserves brain function by protecting dopamine. LIQUORICE - is known to have 8 different anti-depressant compounds all different MAOIs Another compound, glycyrrhizin, breaks down cortisol, the stress hormone, enabling the body to deal with stress more efficiently.

GABA is one of the chief inhibitory neurotransmitters, used by the brain to prevent over-excitement and attain balance. It also helps to decrease the activity of depression inducing brain cells.

As a final note… I believe part of the beauty of the human experience is the range and depth of emotions we are capable of experiencing, and usually there are lessons in them..

so called negative and positive emotions are 2 sides of the same coin and we often find that the presence of one carves out space for a deeper experience of the other.

People who have felt deep grief and sorrow often find they ultimately have a greater capacity to experience joy and develop an inherent kindness that comes with a profound understanding of the condition of the human heart.

So we can view herbs as our allies, in balancing our biochemistry and tending to our energetic health, especially in the often stressful world we live in. However it can be dangerous to seek only the pleasant in life.. our emotions provide contrast and richness, and can be useful guides in showing us what needs to be attended to in our inner world.

And sometimes acceptance and non-judgemental witnessing is all that is required to dissipate the pain of intense, seemingly negative emotions.

We use these plants to fortify our bodies.. both physically and energetically. To soothe anxiety or lift the fog of depression, to provide assistance in regulating physiological functions or remind our body what a flood of serotonin or dopamine feels like, when it seems to have forgotten.

And hopefully, we trigger an internal mechanism whereby balance is more easily found, and we discover or rediscover just how good we are designed to feel.

We have a huge range of professionally formulated nutrient and herb complexes designed to address specific imbalances or support you through challenging times.

Please reach out via email or visit us in-store and one of our excellent practitioners will assist you in finding the best combination for you. With love, as always. Left Continue shopping Your Order. You have no items in your cart.

Shop our practitioner supplement packs HERE. natural progression. John's wort is often used as a natural treatment for depression, because of its mood-boosting and anxiety-relieving effects. Hypericin and hyperforin , the herb's active compounds, act on chemical messengers in the nervous system and regulate mood.

The herb is typically consumed in extract or capsule form to battle low and depressive moods. A warm St. John's Wort and Saffron Infusion Against Nightmares , can also make wonders for your mood.

Although turmeric has been used in Asia for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, its effects on mood have been unknown until recently. Turmeric contains an active compound, called curcumin , which - thanks to its ability to increase serotonin and dopamine levels - has been shown more effective in relieving depression than some of the popular anti-depressants.

Try these Immunity-Boosting Turmeric Camu Camu Capsules , or a Turmeric Syrup for Reducing Inflammation , to reap the protective, calming, and mood boosting effects of this popular spice. Ginseng is a medicinal herb with ancient use in boosting mood.

The herb improves blood circulation in a way that is thought to stimulate the cognitive functions, enhance mood, and improve mental sharpness.

It is also used as a solution for erectile dysfunction for its circulation-stimulating abilities and can thereby counter mood swings by boosting sexual desire.

These homemade Ginseng Ginkgo Cacao Pills to Speed up Brain Function are easy to make and can provide that daily boost to help you go trough the day. Maca is a root vegetable that has been reported to increase sexual desire and help combat mood swings in both sexes.

Its most potent function is an endocrine one: consuming maca could balance estrogen and progesterone in the body and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance.

By that, it can also improve and stabilize mood and enhance overall wellness. There are many easy ways to add maca to your diet, from remedies, like Maca Adrenal Tonic Tea , to beverages and desserts, such as a Morning Starter Cacao Maca Shake , or a delicious Maca Chocolate Cream.

Keeping a steady supply of these mood-boosting herbs will give you a natural emotional "lift" to help combat moodiness. An occasional bad mood is normal and inevitable, but recurring moodiness can alienate those around you and diminish your sense of well-being.

If your mood is low more often than not, and you're experiencing tiredness, loss of interest in things you were once engaged in, or lack of energy, it's worth discussing your feelings with a doctor or counselor, as you may be suffering from depression.

Although turmeric has been used in Asia for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, its effects on mood have been unknown until recently. Turmeric contains an active compound, called curcumin , which - thanks to its ability to increase serotonin and dopamine levels - has been shown more effective in relieving depression than some of the popular anti-depressants.

Try these Immunity-Boosting Turmeric Camu Camu Capsules , or a Turmeric Syrup for Reducing Inflammation , to reap the protective, calming, and mood boosting effects of this popular spice.

Ginseng is a medicinal herb with ancient use in boosting mood. The herb improves blood circulation in a way that is thought to stimulate the cognitive functions, enhance mood, and improve mental sharpness.

It is also used as a solution for erectile dysfunction for its circulation-stimulating abilities and can thereby counter mood swings by boosting sexual desire.

These homemade Ginseng Ginkgo Cacao Pills to Speed up Brain Function are easy to make and can provide that daily boost to help you go trough the day. Maca is a root vegetable that has been reported to increase sexual desire and help combat mood swings in both sexes.

Its most potent function is an endocrine one: consuming maca could balance estrogen and progesterone in the body and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance.

By that, it can also improve and stabilize mood and enhance overall wellness. There are many easy ways to add maca to your diet, from remedies, like Maca Adrenal Tonic Tea , to beverages and desserts, such as a Morning Starter Cacao Maca Shake , or a delicious Maca Chocolate Cream.

Keeping a steady supply of these mood-boosting herbs will give you a natural emotional "lift" to help combat moodiness. An occasional bad mood is normal and inevitable, but recurring moodiness can alienate those around you and diminish your sense of well-being.

If your mood is low more often than not, and you're experiencing tiredness, loss of interest in things you were once engaged in, or lack of energy, it's worth discussing your feelings with a doctor or counselor, as you may be suffering from depression.

Move your body to feel better! Journal of Psychopharmacology , ocoa polyphenols enhance positive mood states but not cognitive performance: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, Maturitas , Maca Lepidium meyenii for treatment of menopausal symptoms: A systematic review, National Institutes of Health , Ginseng St.

John's Wort Menopause Psychopharmacology Berl. Cacao Articles. Popular Wellness Articles. While seeking professional treatment may be necessary, incorporating herbs into our daily self-care routine can be a valuable and empowering tool to support our mental and emotional health.

TCM considers the mind and body to be interconnected, and emotional or psychological imbalances are thought to have an impact on the body's overall health. In TCM, mental health disorders are often seen as an imbalance in the body's energy, or qi.

Practitioners may use a variety of techniques to restore the balance of qi, such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary changes. Herbal remedies are also commonly used in TCM for the treatment of mental health conditions.

Some commonly used herbs for mental health include ginseng, St. John's wort, and valerian root. According to Ayurveda, the mind and body are intimately connected, and mental health problems are often seen as a result of imbalances in the body's three doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha.

Ayurveda views mental health as a complex interplay between the mind, body, and environment. The treatment of mental health disorders in Ayurveda involves a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, herbal remedies, meditation, and other mind-body practices.

Some of the commonly used herbs in Ayurveda for mental health include ashwagandha Withania somnifera , brahmi Bacopa monnieri , shankhapushpi Convolvulus pluricaulis. These herbs are believed to help balance the doshas and support the nervous system, leading to improved mental health.

Ayurveda also emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle, this includes following a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, practicing regular exercise, and managing stress through practices such as yoga and meditation.

Western herbalism also recognizes the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. Herbalists understand that mental and emotional imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, hormonal imbalances, and environmental toxins.

Herbal remedies can be used to support mental health and well-being by addressing the underlying causes of imbalances and promoting relaxation, stress relief, and emotional balance. John's Wort has been used for centuries to support emotional and mental well-being; it is an herbal ally that calms and uplifts the spirit.

Easing mild to moderate depression: St. John's wort has been shown to be effective in cases of mild to moderate depression. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain, which are all neurotransmitters that play a role in regulating mood.

Reducing anxiety: St. John's wort has also been found to have anxiolytic effects, meaning it may help reduce anxiety symptoms. Improving sleep: St. John's wort may help improve sleep quality, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogenic herb that can help the body cope with stress and anxiety.

It works by regulating the body's stress response and improving resilience to stress. As an adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps balance and optimize physiological functions, leading to improved overall health and well-being.

Reducing cortisol levels: Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress. When cortisol levels remain high for prolonged periods of time, it can contribute to the development of chronic stress and anxiety.

Ashwagandha has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, which can help promote a sense of calm and reduce feelings of anxiety. Improving mood: Ashwagandha has been shown to have mood-enhancing properties, which can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

It is thought to work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine in the brain, helping to regulate mood and improve overall feelings of well-being.

Enhancing resilience to stress: Ashwagandha has adaptogenic properties, it can help the body adapt to stressors and improve its resilience to stress. This can be particularly helpful for individuals who are experiencing chronic stress and anxiety. Improving sleep: Ashwagandha has been shown to improve sleep quality, especially for individuals who are experiencing sleep disturbances as a result of stress and anxiety.

Passionflower , also known as Passiflora incarnata , has a long history of use in traditional herbalism. It is often recommended for those looking to improve their sleep quality and reduce anxiety. Reducing anxiety: Passionflower has been shown to have anxiolytic effects, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

This herbal ally works by increasing levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate anxiety. Improving sleep: Passionflower has sedative properties that can greatly improve sleep quality and duration. It is particularly useful for individuals who struggle with falling or staying asleep, especially in cases of "monkey mind," where one's thoughts seem incessant and unrelenting.

Passionflower works by gently calming and quieting the mind, making it easier to relax and fall into a restful sleep. A simple cup of chamomile tea can bring calm to a stressful day. Chamomile is a nervine, meaning it restores balance to the nervous system when we are feeling anxious or unsettled.

This healing herb contains a bioflavonoid compound called apigenin that binds to the same receptors as some anxiety medications. The plant extracts found in chamomile act on the brain to calm GABA signals; over time, chamomile calms the nervous system and has even been studied for its potential to increase secretion, dopamine, and noradrenaline, uplifting a low mood.

Chamomile is also considered a bitter herb, bitter herbs stimulate the digestive system - this stimulation will also directly affect the nervous system promoting relaxation and engaging rest and digest mode, associated with the parasympathetic nervous system.

Kava , also known as Piper methysticum , is highly regarded in traditional herbalism due to its ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. This herb works by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, which helps to calm the mind and promote a sense of tranquility.

Kava has also been used to relieve muscle tension, support restful sleep, and promote emotional well-being. Panic Attacks: Kava has been shown to have anxiolytic effects; it may reduce the severity and frequency of panic attacks.

It is thought to work by increasing levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate anxiety. Depression: Kava may be helpful in reducing symptoms of depression, including low mood, lethargy, and feelings of hopelessness.

It can work by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can be a contributing factor to depression.

Lavender can be used in a variety of ways, including as a tea, essential oil, or in a bath, to help soothe and uplift the mind and promote a sense of calm.

Anxiety Relief: Lavender is a natural anxiolytic, which means it can help reduce anxiety and promote feelings of calmness.

John's wort is often used as a natural treatment for depression, because of its mood-boosting and anxiety-relieving effects. Hypericin and hyperforin , the herb's active compounds, act on chemical messengers in the nervous system and regulate mood.

The herb is typically consumed in extract or capsule form to battle low and depressive moods. A warm St. John's Wort and Saffron Infusion Against Nightmares , can also make wonders for your mood.

Although turmeric has been used in Asia for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, its effects on mood have been unknown until recently.

Turmeric contains an active compound, called curcumin , which - thanks to its ability to increase serotonin and dopamine levels - has been shown more effective in relieving depression than some of the popular anti-depressants. Try these Immunity-Boosting Turmeric Camu Camu Capsules , or a Turmeric Syrup for Reducing Inflammation , to reap the protective, calming, and mood boosting effects of this popular spice.

Ginseng is a medicinal herb with ancient use in boosting mood. The herb improves blood circulation in a way that is thought to stimulate the cognitive functions, enhance mood, and improve mental sharpness.

It is also used as a solution for erectile dysfunction for its circulation-stimulating abilities and can thereby counter mood swings by boosting sexual desire. These homemade Ginseng Ginkgo Cacao Pills to Speed up Brain Function are easy to make and can provide that daily boost to help you go trough the day.

Maca is a root vegetable that has been reported to increase sexual desire and help combat mood swings in both sexes.

Its most potent function is an endocrine one: consuming maca could balance estrogen and progesterone in the body and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance.

By that, it can also improve and stabilize mood and enhance overall wellness. There are many easy ways to add maca to your diet, from remedies, like Maca Adrenal Tonic Tea , to beverages and desserts, such as a Morning Starter Cacao Maca Shake , or a delicious Maca Chocolate Cream.

Keeping a steady supply of these mood-boosting herbs will give you a natural emotional "lift" to help combat moodiness. An occasional bad mood is normal and inevitable, but recurring moodiness can alienate those around you and diminish your sense of well-being.

If your mood is low more often than not, and you're experiencing tiredness, loss of interest in things you were once engaged in, or lack of energy, it's worth discussing your feelings with a doctor or counselor, as you may be suffering from depression. S -Adenosylmethionine SAMe is a sulfur-containing compound that has shown promise in the treatment of depression.

A review of 8 studies found that SAMe, when used alone or with antidepressant medications, improved depressive symptoms in people with MDD. The studies used doses of —3, mg and treatment times of 2—12 weeks While this is promising, keep in mind that more research is needed before strong conclusions can be made.

Jarrow Formulas products are third-party tested by U. Department of Agriculture USDA accredited laboratories. Magnesium deficiency is common among people with depression, and research shows that supplementing with it may reduce depressive symptoms A randomized study in people with mild to moderate depression found that taking mg of magnesium per day for 6 weeks significantly improved depressive symptoms compared with a placebo Bluebonnet Magnesium Glycinate provides mg of magnesium per capsule.

You can adjust your dose depending on how much magnesium you need. Creatine is an organic acid that plays an important role in maintaining brain energy, among other functions.

Altered brain energy levels are thought to be involved in the development of depression Some studies suggest that supplementing with 2—10 grams of creatine per day may reduce symptoms in people with MDD This protective effect seemed to be strongest in females, people ages 20—39, and those not taking antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication Thorne Creatine is a great creatine supplement because it contains just one ingredient and is NSF Certified for Sport — a third-party certification ensuring that the product is free of more than substances banned by major athletics organizations.

Everyone feels low from time to time. However, depression is completely different from a low mood. Depression causes a persistent feeling of sadness and causes you to lose interest in things you once enjoyed.

While you wait for help to arrive, stay with someone and remove any weapons or substances that can cause harm. You are not alone. Studies show that certain dietary supplements, including omega-3s, vitamin D, rhodiola, B12, and saffron, may be helpful for reducing depressive symptoms in some people.

Be sure to clear any new dietary supplement with a healthcare professional before taking it. A healthcare professional can help you decide which supplements may be the most appropriate based on factors like your medical history, medications, and laboratory values.

There is no one best supplement for people with depression. Although some supplements have been shown to benefit certain populations with depression, not everyone will benefit from the same supplements.

Every person with depression has different needs and should work with a healthcare professional to create an individualized care plan, which may or may not involve dietary supplements. While some herbs, such as rhodiola and chamomile, may be helpful for reducing or managing symptoms in some individuals, there is no best herb for treating anxiety or depression Depression is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

Although depression is typically treated with medication and therapy, some people may want to try other safe methods, such as dietary modifications or supplements, to reduce their symptoms.

The supplements in this article have been studied for their potential to reduce depressive symptoms and may be appropriate for some people with depression.

Read this article in Spanish. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY. Want to supplement your seasonal depression treatment? Start with your plate. Learn more in this article. Here are 7 serotonin-boosting foods, including turkey and cheese.

Learn more…. Treating depression effectively means doing more than taking medications and going to therapy. Learn ways you can improve your lifestyle to complement…. Food can have many effects on your mood and emotions.

Sugar is no exception. Research suggests that sugar consumption may increase your risk for…. Diet can be a powerful tool for people with depression. Learn why diet can make a difference to your moods, and what foods to add and limit to feel…. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic?

How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Nutrition Evidence Based 11 Herbs and Supplements to Help Reduce Symptoms of Depression. Medically reviewed by Alexandra Perez, PharmD, MBA, BCGP — By Jillian Kubala, MS, RD — Updated on July 15, On this page How we chose Our picks How to choose When to seek help Suicide prevention FAQs Bottom line.

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Was this helpful? A quick look at the best supplements for depression. How we chose. Pros third-party tested manufactured in a facility that exceeds USP standards non-GMO certified gluten-free vegan. Cons expensive. Shop now at Pure Formulas. Pros UL certified non-GMO vegan. Cons not third-party tested for purity and potency.

Shop now at Amazon. Pros third-party tested COA available online certified sustainable non-GMO verified research-backed high omega-3 dose lemon-flavored. Considerations not suitable for vegans or vegetarians some reports that the capsules melted in high temperatures during shipping when ordered online expensive.

Pros third-party tested manufactured in a facility that exceeds USP standards non-GMO certified gluten-free one-a-day formulation vegan. Considerations none. Pros NSF certified free of artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors free of major allergens comes in a liquid form that is easier to take affordable.

Cons none. Pros contains activated forms of folate and B12 for better absorption free of major allergens CGMP-certified facility free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Pros third-party tested manufactured in a facility that exceeds USP standards non-GMO certified gluten-free vegan available in mg and mg doses affordable.

Pros third-party tested vegan gluten-free available in individual blister packs, which may be easier for travel. Pros provides a highly absorbable form of magnesium non-GMO verified NSF certified certified gluten-free free of major allergens vegan.

Cons not third-party tested for purity and potency 4-capsule serving size. Pros NSF Certified for Sport contains just one ingredient unflavored easy to mix free of gluten, dairy, and soy.

Cons not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. Shop now at Optum. How to choose. When to see a healthcare professional. Suicide prevention. Frequently asked questions.