Combat Depression with Herbal Healing

More than 17 million adults in the United States are reported to have depression, a mental health disorder characterized by a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long periods of time. Unfortunately, the global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25%, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) due to the pandemic. There’s no surprise that more people are seeking natural ways to recover and reduce the chance of relapse.

Herbal medicine has a long history of uplifting moods and ensuring you are less likely to experience depressive symptoms. Dr. Carolyn Cook is an experienced practitioner with over 25 years of experience as a Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture Physician, and Licensed Massage Therapist. Her expertise in herbal medicine has helped countless patients with their disorders including depression.

What is Depression?

According to American Psychiatric Association, depression can happen to anyone and it can cause feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. Sadly, it can affect all aspects of life, leading to a variety of emotional and physical problems. Depression can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.

Signs and Risk Factors of Depression

The following signs of depression may vary from each individual and it must last at least two weeks, presenting a change in your previous level of functioning, for a diagnosis of depression. If you need urgent attention, please contact the nearest hospital and healthcare professional.

• Feelings of sadness or depressed mood
• Losing interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Appetite changes including weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
• Sleeping troubles
• Losing energy or increased fatigue
• Decrease in doing physical activity (e.g., inability to sit still, pacing, handwringing) or slowed movements or speech
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilty
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
• Suicidal thoughts

There are numerous risk factors for depression, including our biochemistry and genetics, personality traits like people with low self-esteem and pessimistic thinking, as well as environmental factors. You may consult with Dr. Cook to have an initial consultation, who can provide a healing path through herbal medicine.

Different Herbal Medicines for Depression

Did you know that herbal medicine is considered to be the most ancient form of healing? It has been used to treat mental health disorders since ancient times. There is archaeological evidence that willow, St. John’s wort, yarrow, chamomile, bupleurum, and were eaten raw or cooked by the early humans. Nowadays, herbs are often used by licensed practitioners of osteopathic or naturopathic medicine like Dr. Cook for various healing reasons.

The treatment for depression is typically medication and therapy, but herbal medicine may help reduce depressive symptoms. Dr. Cook can help you decide which herbal remedies may be the most appropriate based on factors like your medical history, medications, and laboratory values. Remember to check with your mental health professional if you’re taking antidepressants or other medications.

Below are the herbal remedies that you may use after consulting with Dr. Cook.

• Bupleurum: this is also known as chai hu and has been a staple of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2,000 years. It helps assist the proper movement of Qi (Chi) throughout the body; hence, reducing the symptoms of depression.
• Chamomile: this has actually been used therapeutically for more than hundreds of years. It helps people calm down and increase brain neurotransmitter activity (serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline), resulting in positive effects on mood and anxiety.
• Saffron: this plant is the dried stigma of the crocus sativa plant and has been used in Eastern medicine for centuries for various ailments including mood. Current research said that it could serve as an option for patients with unipolar mild-moderate depression who are resistant to conventional antidepressants or CBT.

Most importantly, Dr. Cook suggests that you approach treating depression holistically, which means you are taking care of your physical health as well. Make sure you are getting enough exercise within the day, or you can try doing yoga in the comfort of your home. Try walking outside and focusing on the things you can see, hear, smell, and touch. Finally, Dr. Cook encourages you to be aware of your negative feelings and process them through journaling. The practice of writing down your emotions and finding out why they are there is important in treating depression.

How Classical Herbs and Acupuncture Can Help

During your first appointment, Dr. Carolyn Cook will conduct an intake interview and check your pulse in 9 different positions on each wrist, which allows her to have the necessary information to give the specific herbal formula to assist your issues.

For instance, a client dealing with depression and digestive issues sought the help of Dr. Cook. After his initial consultation, she found the right herbs that improved his mood and elevate his digestive problems. If you want to learn more about his testimony, you may check our Testimonials page. Call us at (305) 665-9711 or contact us at cc@miamiherbs.com .