Depression - The Silver Lining

With the pace of modern life, societal trends that are so different to the close knit communities of generations past and rapidly degenerating nutrition, it is little wonder that the incidence of depression and mood disorders is escalating at an alarming rate.

Food for Thought

Even slight nutrient deficiencies alter brain and nervous system function, affecting mood and behaviour. Ensure a high intake of vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins. Food allergies often affect emotions, mood and behaviour. Try an elimination diet, removing common allergens such as wheat, gluten, dairy, nuts, citrus fruits, caffeine, refined sugars, white flour products and additives. Eat plenty of whole grains and fresh vegetables, with an emphasis on green, leafy vegetables for calm, even energy. Concentrated green foods such barley and wheat grass powders and the micro algae chlorella and spirulina are particularly helpful. Essential Fatty Acids are vital for conditions of low spirits to debilitating depression. Flax seed oil is nature’s richest and most delicious source of Omega 3 fatty acids, crucial for emotional harmony. Drizzle some on your vegies, cereal or salad today! Beat the Blues with Mother Nature:

St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum). An anti depressant for mild to moderate depression, found to be as effective as prescription medication without the potential side effects.
Kava (Piper methysticum). Traditionally used in the Pacific islands. A good remedy for anxiety, insomnia, restlessness and depression. It is a mild sedative that actually improves focus and clarity.
Valerian (Valeriana offinalis) has a long history of use as a sedative and tranquilliser and relieving anxiety. It decreases time taken to fall asleep and improves sleep quality, normalises blood pressure and relaxes smooth muscle including that found in the intestinal tract.
Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia) is a nervous system tonic used to combat anxiety, depression, insomnia and headaches. Good for those unable to take the more warming herb, Valerian.
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is an anti-depressant and mood improver reputed to enhance libido.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba). The only surviving member of the world’s oldest living tree species, it improves circulation and enhances the brain’s oxygen and glucose uptake.
Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) enhances energy metabolism and ability to cope with stress. Excellent for debilitated conditions. The remedy of choice for adrenal exhaustion and to increase stamina.
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica). Thousands of years of use as a sedative, it improves mental function and combats insomnia.
Avena (Oatstraw) is an anti depressant used for exhaustion, depression, stress and convalescence.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is naturally high in calcium and magnesium;, excellent for insomnia, anxiety, muscle cramps and digestive upsets.

Flower Essences

These remedies are chosen for specific emotional conditions and compliment any other treatment. The Bach Flower range includes Gorse for hopelessness, Mustard for depression with an unknown reason, Gentian for depression with a known cause, Agrimony for stress with restlessness, Mimulus for anxiety with a known cause, Rescue Remedy for emotional comfort, panic, anxiety, inability to cope and Olive for complete mental and physical exhaustion. Australian Bush Flowers blends include Emergency Essence, Calm and Clear, and Cognisance .

Cell Salts – Don’t Sell Yourself Short…

Tissue Salts rectify deficiencies on a cellular level using homeopathic doses. Kali Phos is for all nervous conditions, Mag Phos steadies nerves, Nat Mur addresses low spirits.

Aromatherapy – Sniff to Uplift…

Clary sage and jasmine lift mood. Basil, rosemary and lemon assist with clarity and focus. Marjoram, lavender and chamomile are soothing and helpful for anxiety and insomnia. Sprinkle some on your pillow tonight…

The contents of this publication are intended to inspire, encourage and support individuals with healthcare choices. They are not intended to replace the personal advice of a qualified health practitioner.

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