Natural antidepressants

By Dr Sarah Brewer

Antidepressants are a popular form of treatment for depression in England, with an incredible 22 million prescriptions written each year. But many people prefer to try a more natural way to help lift their mood

If you do decide to use natural medicine, it is still important to see your GP for regular assessment, to make sure you continue to improve and your condition does not worsen - it is sometimes difficult to judge for yourself when you are feeling down.

Most important of all, do not take any herbal medicines along with prescribed antidepressant drugs. If taking other medicines, always check with a pharmacist, in case there are any known reactions. Do not take any herbal remedies during pregnancy or breastfeeding, except under the advice of a qualified medical herbalist.

Herbal remedies

St John's Wort
The leaves and flowers of St John's Wort (hypericum perforatum) contain a variety of natural antidepressant substances including, hypericin, pseudohypericin and hyperforin. These work at the root of mild depression, boosting neurotransmitter function and returning your mood to an even keel.

Standardised St John's Wort extracts providing 900mcg hypericin daily are, at least, as effective as commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs, and can lift mild depression within two weeks - the optimum effect is reached within six weeks.

St John's Wort is best taken with food. Avoid alcohol. St John's Wort does interact with some prescribed drugs, so if on other medication, check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking.