Depression-Home Remedies

Just as with anxiety, depression can be due to several reasons, and its symptoms may be quite varied. Conditions like constipation, headaches, insomnia and loss of appetite can all relate to depression and in deep or continuing instances of depression professional help is essential. This is especially so when there is no obvious reason for the feelings, a condition generally labelled endogenous depression. Aromatherapy Many oils have quite profound effects on mood, and it may be necessary to change the oil used as symptoms vary. The benefits of aromatherapy massage using diluted essential oils, with the caring effect of the direct contact, are the most useful way of treating someone with depression, but oils can also be very helpful in the bath. Bergamot: This is one of the most uplifting of oils, with a refreshing citrus fragrance which is appealing to both men and women and gives Earl Grey tea its distinctive aroma. Clary Sage: This is quite relaxing, but with an uplifting, almost euphoric effect as well; good when chronic tension has led to depression or exhaustion. Geranium: This oil actually comes from varieties of scented pelargonium, and has a tonic effect on the adrenal cortex, which helps to regulate stress hormone production. Neroli: This oil, from the blossom of the bitter orange, is very concentrated (and also expensive!) so a little can go a long way. It relaxes and soothes, relieving muscle spasm and the irritability which often goes with a depressed state. Herbalism The traditional approach to depression included looking at all the body systems, in particular liver function, and often bitter herbs were prescribed to stimulate digestion and act as a tonic; a few drops of a tincture of a herb such as Gentian(Gentiana lutea) may do the trick in mild cases of depressed spirits. The herbs can be taken as a tea, or for a stronger effect take as an infusion. Borage(Borago officinalis): An adrenal stimulant and general tonic, best taken as a tea and for short periods only. Oatstraw (Avena sativa): An all-round nervous restorative; either use 20 drops of the tincture twice daily, or simply add plenty of oats to the diet, for example, in cereals. Rosemary(Rosmarinus officinalis): Excellent where nervous exhaustion leads to depression, also good for headaches and sluggish digestion. Vervain(Verbena officinalis): A relaxing tonic, very useful for the depression of convalescence from an illness, when everything seems a struggle. Homeopathy In the short term, look at these remedies. Aurum metallicum: For deep depression and almost suicidal feelings, perhaps following failure in exams or at work. Ignatia: This is especially appropriate for depression following a shock or grief, with pent-up, almost hysterical feelings and a lump in the throat. Kali phos: For nervous exhaustion, leaving a lack of mental or physical energy. Pulsatilla: Generally most useful for mild, gentle people who are prone to weepiness, with a rapid change of mood to feeling miserable- this is often a good remedy for children, but seek medical advice first! Naturopathy One of the first things to do is overhaul the diet, to make sure there is enough nourishment for the nervous system. Reduce coffee, tea, sugar and alcohol intake. Take plenty of wholefoods, possibly increasing protein intake, if the diet has been poor. Taking more exercise is a positive move, helping to improve circulation, muscle tone and increase oxygen intake. The main difficulty of course is motivation, so support from an exercise class may be more successful than doing it alone. Supplement the diet with a good general multi-mineral and vitamin supplement to give a wide spectrum of nutrients.