Depression is a common mental health condition which affects millions of people worldwide. It can be debilitating and interfere with daily life, making it difficult for those who suffer from it to find joy and happiness.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that over 264 million people of all ages suffer from depression globally. In addition, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and is a major contributor to the global burden of disease.

In high-income countries, it is estimated that 1 in 4 people will experience mental illness in their lifetime, with depression being the most common. In low- and middle-income countries, this figure is estimated to be 1 in 3.

Statistics of people with depression worldwide

Disorder	Share of global population with disorder (2017) [difference across countries]	Number of people with the disorder (2017)	Number of people with the disorder (2017)
Depression	3.4% [2-6%]	264 million	2.7% males 4.1% females

Fortunately, there are many natural remedies available that can help with depression, including herbs and supplements.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 herbs and supplements that have been proven to be effective in treating depression.

1. St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is a popular herb that has been used for centuries to treat depression and anxiety. It is believed to work by increasing the levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters that are responsible for regulating mood. Several studies have found that St. John’s Wort is as effective as prescription antidepressants, and with fewer side effects.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that play a crucial role in brain function. They are important for maintaining healthy brain structure and function, and have been found to be effective in treating depression. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in foods such as fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. However, for those who do not get enough of these fatty acids in their diet, supplementing with an Omega-3 supplement can be beneficial.

3. S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe)

SAMe is a naturally occurring compound that is found in the body. It is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in regulating mood. Research has shown that SAMe is effective in treating depression, and has fewer side effects than prescription antidepressants.

4. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)

5-HTP is an amino acid that is the precursor to serotonin. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood. Several studies have found that 5-HTP is effective in treating depression, and it has fewer side effects than prescription antidepressants.

5. Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa Monnieri is a herb that is commonly used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat depression and anxiety. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which helps regulate mood. Additionally, Bacopa Monnieri has been found to improve cognitive function, making it a great option for those who suffer from depression and anxiety.

6. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a herb that is commonly used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat depression and anxiety. It is believed to work by reducing stress and anxiety, and by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for regulating mood. Research has shown that Ashwagandha is effective in treating depression, and it has fewer side effects than prescription antidepressants.

7. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea is a herb that is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat depression and anxiety. It is believed to work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for regulating mood. Additionally, Rhodiola Rosea has been found to improve cognitive function and reduce stress and anxiety, making it a great option for those who suffer from depression.

8. Lavender

Lavender is a herb that has been used for centuries to treat depression and anxiety. It is believed to work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for regulating mood. Additionally, lavender has

been found to have a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety. This makes it a great option for those who suffer from depression and anxiety. Lavender can be used in several forms, including essential oils, teas, and bath salts.

9. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is a herb that has been used for centuries to improve cognitive function and treat depression and anxiety. It works by increasing blood flow to the brain, which helps improve mood and reduces stress and anxiety. Research has shown that Ginkgo Biloba is effective in treating depression, and it has fewer side effects than prescription antidepressants.

10. Vitamin B Complex

Vitamin B Complex is a group of vitamins that are essential for maintaining good mental health. These vitamins are important for the production of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in regulating mood. A deficiency in Vitamin B Complex has been linked to depression, and supplementing with Vitamin B Complex has been found to be effective in treating depression.

In conclusion

Depression is a serious mental condition which affects millions of people worldwide. While prescription antidepressants can be effective, they often come with unwanted side effects. Fortunately, there are many natural remedies available that can help fight depression, including herbs and supplements.

The 10 herbs and supplements discussed in this blog post have been proven to be effective in treating depression, and they are a safe and natural alternative to prescription antidepressants.

Please, remember that these remedies should never be used as a substitute for professional medical treatment. If you are suffering from depression, it is important to seek the advice of a medical professional to ensure that you receive the best treatment for your individual needs.