Depression affects thousands of people worldwide, and most choose to take medications (especially anxiolytics) to alleviate their symptoms without knowing that there are natural remedies that could be of great help. Let’s discover the best natural antidepressants.
Did you know that you can try to take advantage of the properties of certain plants, foods, and habits to reduce depression? In the following article, we tell you what could be the best natural antidepressants.
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best natural antidepressants
The best antidepressant plants
When you feel sad, overwhelmed, and lonely, try consuming any of the below plants. These can improve our mood and therefore make us feel comforted.
Grass of San Juan
It is also known as hypericum, an herb traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory for muscle pain and spasms, but it is also used in cases of mild depression.
It is advisable to start consuming it at the end of summer to avoid what is known as “seasonal affective disorder” or to combat post-vacation syndrome. It is also helpful to calm anxiety.
Basil
Some people opt for the essential oil of this plant to take baths or enjoy aromatherapy, although you can also take advantage of its benefits by infusion: 1 every night is recommended.
Basil is antidepressant and fights both fatigue and nerves.
Ginkgo biloba
It helps to combat depression but also to reduce brain changes caused by aging.
Ginkgo Biloba extract increases serotonin levels, the commonly called “happiness hormone.”
Borage
Fight nervous depression. It is also recommended at night before bed. To take advantage of its benefits, we can consume it as tea or juice, depending on the time of year or personal tastes.
damiana
Among the best natural antidepressants, we find Damiana. It helps regulate both the nervous and hormonal systems (perfect for postpartum depression, menopause…).
It should be consumed daily, at any time of the day, but especially at night, to achieve the desired effects.
The best antidepressant foods
Among the best natural antidepressants, we must mention certain foods. For example, popular wisdom holds that chocolate is one of the best options for when we are sad, but it would not be the only food. More food alternatives reduce feelings of grief:
Fish
Fish oil improves the health of the body and mind—all thanks to the Omega 3 fatty acids it contains, which are magnificent natural antidepressants.
The same happens with the so-called “blue fish” (salmon and sardines) and seafood.
According to data published in El Diario de Coahuila, eating cooked fish or sushi could reduce suicidal tendencies and negative thoughts. Therefore, it is advisable to alternate both menus several times a week.
Other foods rich in omega-3 are nuts, whole grains, and flax seeds. These alternatives are ideal for vegetarians or vegans.
Spices
They serve to spice up meals, improve mood, and reduce depression.
We find chili and cayenne pepper among the recommended spices containing capsaicin. This compound stimulates the production of endorphins and promotes well-being.
It is also good to increase the intake of fresh ginger as a seasoning for salads and infusions and turmeric for sauces or soups since they can raise serotonin levels. This neurotransmitter regulates mood, sexual behavior, and memory.
Citrus and foods rich in vitamin C
All those foods that contain vitamin C can contribute to the neurotransmitters of the brain working better. This vitamin also reduces vanadium levels (the mineral responsible for bipolar depression).
Did you know that many fruits and vegetables provide vitamin C? We can highlight red fruits (strawberries, raspberries), carrots, garlic, and kiwi.
Legumes and nuts
When we feel sad, nothing is better than eating a handful of walnuts or almonds. We can also consume a good plate of rice, chickpeas, or lentils. These foods provide tryptophan, an amino acid considered a natural relaxant and antidepressant.
Oats, chestnuts, beans, and beans could also help against sadness.
Habits that are natural antidepressants
We already know what to drink or eat when we are depressed. However, they are not the only solutions that we could apply, but it is advisable to practice the following habits to fight against depression:
To meditate
This ancient practice reduces stress and chronic depression. Also, it helps to put problems aside to focus on the good things and genuine feelings like love and kindness. It can be practiced at home or in any association or meditation school.
Dance
Moving the body is perfect in moments of tedium and unease
Sunbathe
When there is a vitamin D deficiency, we are more likely to feel sad or listless. The good news is that we can get this nutrient simply by lying in the sun for 15 to 30 minutes daily (paying attention to skincare).
This habit is ideal for seasonal depression and is recommended in the early morning or afternoon, never at noon, even in winter.
Please consult with your doctor about all your doubts regarding the best natural antidepressants presented in this article.