To succeed in this competitive world, people have to stay alert mentally, since competition is so severe that only few can succeed. This trend has put more strain on the mental stability of people and many of those who are not successful feel depressed. Some psychologists are of the opinion that the number of people suffering from depression has been on the increase in the recent past. This alarming situation is compounded by the fact that youngsters are now prone to depression.

What are the causes of depression?

Psychologists are of the opinion that it would be very difficult to pinpoint any particular attribute as the cause for depression. In fact they say that causes for depression are yet to be fully understood and many research activities are proceeding in this direction.

One of the reasons attributed to depression is imbalance of chemicals in the brain. These imbalances can be effectively remedied by administering proper medicines. Bipolar depression is another face of depression which is normally characterized by recurrent depressive episodes which occur frequently in one’s life. The other causes for depression include stress resulting from work or profession, chronic illness, crisis in the family like financial or business loss, problems in the relationships within the family, change of life etc. Depression could also be hereditary. Environmental factors, social setup or stigma may also lead to depression. A person suffering from depression would suffer from pessimism and he may even become a sadist. Serious depression could also lead to suicidal tendencies amongst them. Some of those who are depressed may also turn to be violent.

According to research conducted, women are more prone to depression than men. Researchers say that in US, the number of women treated for depression is almost 25% more than men who are diagnosed as suffering from depression. Interestingly amongst men, depression may even go unrecognized.

Treatment:

Depression is caused by malfunctioning of the neurotransmitters located in the brain. As said earlier, there is an imbalance in the levels of chemicals which in turn triggers depression. Therefore, the appropriate treatment is to regulate the supply of these chemicals through proper medicines. Fluoxetine, venlafaxine and paroxetine are some of the medicines that are commonly used to depression. These medicines will have to be taken under strict medical supervision. Some researchers are of the opinion that continuous use of these anti-depressants may also cause some serious side effects in later years. On the other hand, there are some natural remedies for depression which are known to be effective. Let us understand these natural remedies for depression:

1. Home Remedies
2. Other Remedies
3. Diet

Home remedies for depression

Asparagus as a Home Remedy for Depression

Properties: Grown in most parts of Asia, Africa and Europe, Asparagus is a perennial flowering vegetable plant which is commonly used in daily culinary preparations. Asparagus has bell shaped flowers and bears yellowish or greenish white leaves. The shoots of Asparagus are commonly used in daily preparations of various types. According to nutritionists, Asparagus is rich in Vitamins A, B6, C and K. It is also rich in many minerals like magnesium, calcium, zinc, folic acid, potassium, copper, iron etc. It is used in the preparation of pickle.

Using Asparagus as a Cure for Depression:

Take some Asparagus and dry it in shade. Once it is fully dry, powder the dried Asparagus. Alternatively you can buy powdered Asparagus manufactured by a reputed agency. Take two teaspoonfuls of this powder daily. If you prefer, you can mix it with water and drink the mixture daily. This is considered to be one of the best natural remedies for depression.

Cardamom as a Home Remedy for Depression

Properties: Known for its most pleasant aroma, Cardamom is a small black seed wrapped in thin triangular-shaped shell. Native to India and other Asian countries, Cardamom is available in three different varieties. The greenish variety is said to be of superior quality. Cardamom is used in most of the culinary items, particularly in the preparation of sweets and many of the gravies. In so far as its medicinal value is concerned, Cardamom is known to cure congestion of lungs, fight tuberculosis, is recognized as the best antidote against scorpion and snake bite, cures problems related to digestive system, breaks up gall bladder and kidney stone etc. The traditional Indian medicine system ‘Ayurveda’ and the Chinese system of medicine use Cardamom in preparation of medicines.

Using Cardamom as a Cure for Depression:

Take some cardamom seeds, powder and mix in water and drink. Nutritionists suggest that one glass of cardamom mixed water should be taken every day and in course of time, the depression can be cured. Do not throw the outer cover of the cardamom. It can be used in preparation of soup etc. Another method is to take about three green cardamoms and add about one glass of water and some sugar and boil for about five minutes and drink when cooled.

Cashew-nut as a Home Remedy for Depression

Properties: This evergreen tree which has spiral shaped leaves with oval or pear shaped fruits is known for its pleasant taste and for its multifarious uses. Cashew-nut is native of Brazil and is used in most of their culinary preparations. Now, Cashew-nuts are grown all over the world. Rich in anacardic acid, it is considered to be the best medicine to fight tooth-abscesses. It is also rich in Vitamins B, B2 and Thiamine which stimulate the nervous system. The bark of cashew-nut tree is effective in fighting diarrhea. It is also used in preparation of alcohol. Fenni is a popular Indian alcoholic drink prepared from cashew-nut.

Using cashew-nut as a Cure for Depression:

Eat about 10 to 15 cashew-nuts every day. Alternatively, take about 10 cashew-nuts and powder them. Mix into one glass of milk and drink the mixture every day. Nutrition experts say that with continued use of cashew-nut, depression can be cured.

Apple as a Home Remedy for Depression

Properties: Apple does not require any introduction. Grown all over the world, Apple is rich in Phosphorus, Potassium and Vitamins. The popular adage ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ highlights the medicinal value of this most popular fruit.

Using Apple as a Cure for Depression:

Eat at least one apple a day. Alternatively, cut the apple to small pieces and to this add about one teaspoon of honey and enough milk and take this mixture daily. Nutrition experts say that apple has minerals which are very effective in curing depression.

Brahmi as a Home Remedy for Depression

Properties: Largely grown in North India, this creeper is normally found in wetlands or marshy areas, and its botanical name is Bacopa monnieri. The oblanceolate leaves are comparatively thick and the creeper has small white flowers which have four to five petals. Brahmi is widely used in Indian traditional system of medicine, Ayurveda. The plant is known to have curative effects for such ailments as asthma, epilepsy and for those suffering from anxiety. Brahmi has the ability to reduce fat content in the blood stream. It is rich in alkaloids, flavonoids, betulic acid, antioxidants and beta sitosterol. Brahmi is considered to be effective in reducing mental stress and improve learning because it has beneficial effects on the nerves and brain.

Using Brahmi as a Cure for Depression:

Manufacturers of Ayurvedic medicines prepare oils using Brahmi as the main component. Apply the Brahmi oil regularly on head as per the directions given on the wrapper. Regular use of Brahmi is known to reduce depression.

Ashwagandha as a Natural Remedy for Depression

Properties: This short shrub with branches spreading in star shape has many medicinal values. Believed to be a native of India, Ashwagandha is cultivated here for preparation of traditional Indian medicines. According to researchers, Ashwagandha has properties that may cure Parkinson’s disease, it is a sedative and has rejuvenating properties, fights dehydration, weakness of bones and muscles, strengthens gums, cure debility, fatigue, impotency, senility, premature ageing, memory loss, fights cancer, tuberculosis, ulcer, rheumatism etc.

Using Ashwagandha as a Treatment for Depression:

Manufacturers of Ayurvedic medicines use Ashwagandha as the main component. With continued usage, these medicines are known to cure depression. It is once again suggested, that the medicine manufactured by a reputed company should be bought.

Guggul as a Natural Remedy for Depression

Properties: Largely grown in semi arid and arid climates, Guggul is a flowering plant with the botanical name Commiphora wightii. It has thorny branches and thick bark. Guggul has been in use as a medicine in the Indian herbal system of medicine for about 3000 years. It is known to be effective in diseases relating to liver and reduces cholesterol. The gum produced by the guggul plant is also used as a medicine. Guggul resin is dried and it is spread on burning coal which produces dense smoke. The burning coal with smoke is carried all over the home in many traditional Hindu homes. This smoke is believed to remove evil spirits and also rejuvenate the mind.

Using Guggul as a Treatment for Depression:

Many medicines using Guggul are available to treat depression. These are available in most of the medical stores. Further it is suggested that the guggul resin smoke should be inhaled for few minutes.

Jatamansi as a Natural Remedy for Depression

Properties: Another popular herb used in traditional Indian herbal medicine system Ayurveda, Jatamansi is known as muskroot or Indian Spikenard in English and is normally grown in high altitude mountain ranges, and usually found at an altitude of about 10,000 to 17,000 feet. Every part of Jatamansi has medicinal values.

Using Jatamansi as a Treatment for Depression:

Many medicines in capsule, pills, liquid and paste format are available and by regularly taking this medicine, it is possible to fight depression. Again, it is suggested that products manufactured by a reputed manufacturer be bought.

Amla and Nutmeg as a Natural Remedy for Depression

Amla

Properties: Known as Indian Gooseberry, Amla fruit is round and of the size of lemon, green in color and bitter in taste. All parts of this wonder tree are used to treat various ailments. It is also used in preparing pickles and in many other dishes. Amla is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. These properties make it one of the best home remedies for depression. It promotes health of skin, improves immune system, regulates blood sugar, makes the hair healthy, improves eye sight. According to Ayurvedic system of medicine, Amla is a good brain tonic and it suppresses pain and inflammation.

Nutmeg

Properties: The egg shaped seed of the plant, Nutmeg is largely grown in Malaysia and other Asian countries. There are many varieties of Nutmeg. The one referred to here goes by the botanical name Myristica fragrans. Nutmeg is used in many culinary preparations. Nutmeg has medicinal values that cure nausea, headache, body pain, dehydration. It is a deliriant also. However, pregnant women are advised to use nutmeg only under medical supervision.

Using Amla and Nutmeg as a Treatment for Depression:

Take about one teaspoon of Amla juice and about 1/8 teaspoon of Nutmeg powder and mix them thoroughly. Take this mixture twice a day regularly.

Sage and Tulsi as a Natural Remedy for Depression

Sage

Properties: This shrub with grey leaves, woody stem and purple flowers, which is considered to be a native of Mediterranean areas is also called Salvia officinalis in botanical language. Sage is used in many culinary preparations, e.g. essential oil of Sage is used in preparation of cheese etc. Medicinal uses of Sage include its antibiotic, antispasmodic, antifungal, astringent and hypoglycemic characteristics. It is known to fight Alzheimer's disease.

Tulsi

Properties: The aromatic Tulsi has the botanical name Ocimum tenuiflorum adorns the homes of many Hindus and the plant is worshipped by many. This shrub has many branches and the leaves are somewhat purple in color. This species of Tulsi is called as Krishna Tulsi which is considered to be of superior variety. The leaves of other species of Tulsi are of green color. Tulsi is considered to be a miracle plant rich in medicinal values. It has antioxidant qualities and it regulates blood glucose level, protects against radiation poisoning, improves the immunological level, tones up the health of skin and the hair, fights cataract and supplies blood to the brain. These properties make it one of the best home remedies for depression.

Using Sage and Tulsi as a Treatment for Depression:

Take about ½ teaspoon of Sage powder and ¼ teaspoon of Tulsi powder and add to hot water, stir well and take this mixture thrice a day. Alternatively, boil sage and tulsi leaves in one glass water for about five minutes and when the water is cool drink the mixture.

Other home remedies for depression

Soak about 12 almonds in water overnight and eat them in the morning and drink some milk. The water in which you have soaked the almonds can be applied on the face to serve as a facial.

Add some aromatic herbal oils like sandalwood oil etc to your bath-water - this helps in reducing the symptoms of depression.

Take about 15 rose petals, wash them thoroughly and soak in water and boil for about 15 minutes. Allow it to cool and drink the mixture thrice a day.

Keep about 30 grams of lemon herb in cold water for about 12 hours and strain this water. Drink this water thrice every day. This is known to be effective in curing depression.

Yoga and meditation are considered to be quite effective in curing depression when practiced under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

Family members of those suffering from depression should keep patients engaged in activities that interest them.

Monitor intake of food, especially milk, by the person suffering from depression.

Think positively. Identify the cause of depression and express yourself to close friends or family members and cultivate the company of such people.

Neutral bath – soaking the body in water which is heated to temperature between 92 degree F and 95 degree F for about one hour also cures depression.

Diet for Depression:

Take fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin B.

Use turmeric regularly in the cooking. Alternatively, add half teaspoon of turmeric to hot water or add one teaspoon of honey to turmeric and take this mixture regularly. Turmeric is known to invigorate those suffering from depression.

Stay away from alcohol and junk food. Restrict use of beverages like coffee etc. Of course one can take herbal tea or green leaf tea in restricted quantity as diet for depression.

Orange juice is another effective diet for depression.