The use of antidepressants is more common than people think. They are the second most used drugs in America. This is a result of the increasing number of mental issues that people experience. At least 25% of the people in America suffer from some mental illness. Around 70% of them use at least one antidepressant, while 50% use more than one.
However, these commonly prescribed antidepressants have many side effects such as difficulty walking, loss of coordination, memory problems, yellowing of skin and eyes, and seizures.
But how to prevent some medical issues without relying on antidepressants? There are some natural remedies that will prevent such side effects and will protect your health. They include:
1. Lavender
Lavender abounds in many potent neuroprotective qualities that can calm down the mind and treat a neurological disorder. You can use lavender for treating mild and moderate depression and nervous disorders. It can be also used in aromatherapy treatments. You can apply lavender on the skin or just:
- Add some drops of lavender oil to your bath
- Consume it as tea
- Put some dried one in the pillowcase
2. Passionflowers
This is an exotic flower with a sweet scent. Traditionally, it was used to treat anxiety, hysteria, insomnia, and seizures. The experts state that the powerful sedative qualities of the passionflower can increase the gamma-aminobutyric level, thus reducing the activity of some parts of the brain. In this way, you will feel more relaxed.
3. Rhodiola
In Scandinavian and Chinese medicine, people used this herb to reduce stress. It successfully treats fatigue and improves mood. It can reduce the activity of the sympathetic nervous system which controls nausea, shaking, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness. Also, Rhodiola stimulates the production of serotonin, the hormone of happiness.
4. Ashwagandha
The Ashwagandha was traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating agoraphobia, an anxious state due to open spaces and large crowds. According to a study in 2012, it successfully reduces cortisol, the hormone of stress. Use this herb as a tea to provide the best results.
5. Valerian
If taken in the form of a pill or tea, valerian effectively treats insomnia, headaches, and anxiety disorders. Drink it quickly due to the strong smell.
6. Chamomile
A cup of chamomile tea will help you sleep better and cope with stress. Many studies show that it is an effective herb that fights depression. It’s the luteolin, a-bisabolol, and apigenin in chamomile that reduce blood pressure and relax the mind.
7. Vanilla
The vanilla scent provides an immediate feeling of relaxation thus reducing the anxiety level by nearly 65%. For this purpose, it is used in many spa products, candles, and creams.
8. John’s wort
Not only available in the health food stores John’s wort herb can be grown in your home. Also, it has antidepressant qualities as Prozac without any side effects.
However, consult your doctor before using this herb, especially if you take birth control pills.
9. Lemon balm
This citrus herb will treat anxiety and improve the overall health of your body. It even improves the state of people who suffer from severe dementia. It also increases the level of attention, memory, and promotes calmness.
10. Rosemary
Along with its culinary properties, rosemary is a potent neuroprotective herb. It reduces nervous tension and improves memory and cognitive performance. It can be both inhaled and ingested and can completely replace antidepressants and painkillers.
Via Rethink