Benefits
- Natural, simple composition.
- Highly standardised - at 6 mg vitanolides.
- Reduces stress.
- Improves mood and sleep quality.
- Alleviates anxiety.
- It can provide support in the treatment of depression.
- Supports brain and nervous system function.
- Strengthens immunity.
- Maintains adequate blood sugar levels.
- Has a beneficial effect on muscle mass gain.
Disadvantages
- Only available in selected shops.
Ashwagandha by Nutridome is a product with research-proven effectiveness in improving psychophysical condition. Particularly noteworthy is the supplement's very good, simple composition and high standardisation - one serving of 400 mg of ashwagandha extract contains 6 mg of vitanolides responsible for the plant's adaptogenic and healing properties. Regular use of Nutridome capsules primarily reduces stress, relieves anxiety, improves mood and provides improved sleep quality. Ashwagandha can be taken as a safe support for pharmacological treatment of depression. In addition, ashwagandha maintains normal blood sugar levels, supports brain and nervous system function, increases immunity and contributes to increased muscle mass in athletes. The recommended daily dose is 2 capsules.
Benefits
- Good composition.
- Rhodiola rosea extract is standardised into two components.
- Reduces stress and tension.
- Improves nervous system function and cognitive function.
- It can combat insomnia.
- Increases stamina and adds energy.
Disadvantages
- Very large capsules.
- May cause slight dryness of the mouth.
- High price.
Solgar's dietary supplement is based on the adaptogenic properties of rhodiola montana. The formula uses 350 mg per serving of the root extract of this valuable plant standardised to two components: salidroside - 1% and rosavins - 3%. The use of the Solgar supplement reduces stress and internal tension and has a beneficial effect on the nervous system and cognitive function. It can also be an effective method in the fight against insomnia. In addition, it increases physical endurance, adds energy and influences the maintenance of normal blood circulation. Solgar capsules are vegan and the manufacturer recommends taking 1 capsule once a day.
Benefits
- Good composition.
- St John's wort extract is standardised.
- Reduces stress and tension.
- Improves wellbeing.
- It adds energy and a desire for action.
Disadvantages
- Difficult dosage.
- Large capsules.
- The preparation leaves an unpleasant aftertaste in the mouth.
The dietary supplement with St John's Wort extract by Now Foods is characterised by its simple composition and standardisation to 0.3% hypericin - the active ingredient responsible for St John's Wort's antidepressant properties. The use of the formula primarily reduces stress and tension by maintaining adequate levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. As a result, the mood improves and there is more energy and willingness to act. St. John's Wort is a plant that can reduce symptoms of mild to severe depression. The recommended daily intake of the Now Foods supplement is 1 capsule 3 times a day.
Benefits
- Good composition.
- With the addition of probiotics.
- Saffron extract has standardisation.
- Reduces nervous tension and stress.
- Improves mood and prevents mood swings.
Disadvantages
- Allergens are present in the composition.
- High price.
- Limited availability.
The dietary supplement Mood Improve by Life Extension is a combination of standardised saffron extract and a probiotic complex. As a result, regular intake of the capsules effectively reduces nervous tension and stress, improves mood and reduces mood swings caused by hormone imbalances. Mood Improve is a preparation recommended for, among others, women during the menopause. The addition of probiotics supports intestinal function, which not only improves digestion, but also strengthens the health of the whole organism and thus has a positive effect on mood. The recommended daily intake of the supplement is 1 capsule.
Benefits
- Good combination of ingredients.
- Ashwagandha extract has standardisation.
- Supports the function of the nervous system.
- Alleviates symptoms of depression.
Disadvantages
- A small dose of ashwagandha and magnesium.
- A very poorly absorbed form of magnesium.
- Exorbitant price.
The dietary supplement Magnesium B6 Forte Max by Lanco is a combination of standardised ashwagandha extract, magnesium, vitamin B6 and tryptophan. The product supports the functioning of the nervous system, relieves symptoms of depression, reduces feelings of fatigue and improves mood. Tryptophan is an amino acid involved in the production of serotonin and melatonin, so its regular use can also support the fight against sleep disorders. Unfortunately, the formula uses low doses of ashwagandha (142 mg/portion) and magnesium (250 mg/portion). In addition, magnesium is present in a very poorly absorbed form - magnesium oxide. The recommended daily intake of the Lanco supplement is 2 capsules.
Natural antidepressants - peace and emotional balance
Natural antidepressants in the form of dietary supplements can effectively restore calmness and mental balance in the presence of depressive states. These preparations base their action mainly on the adaptogenic properties of the plants used in them. Adaptogens are substances that help strengthen resistance to stress and restore inner harmony. They have a multidimensional effect, supporting various systems in the body, including the nervous and endocrine systems responsible for mental health.
Adaptogens, such as ashwagandha and rhodiola rosea, for example, regulate cortisol (the stress hormone) levels in the body. Excess cortisol leads to permanent mental tension, fatigue and a significant deterioration of mood. Therefore, the regular use of adaptogens can prevent the occurrence of these symptoms and contribute to an improved sense of well-being, increased energy, as well as a beneficial effect on the quality of sleep, which in turn translates into a more efficient regeneration of the brain and the entire nervous system promoting a return to mental balance.
Natural antidepressants also affect the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine responsible for regulating mood and emotions. St John's wort, for example, increases serotonin levels to such an extent that its effects are compared to those of prescription antidepressants. Natural antidepressants reduce feelings of apathy, sadness and anxiety, while promoting mental recovery.
Thanks to their mild effects, natural antidepressants can be used long-term without the risk of addiction or serious side effects (St John's wort is an exception). Their action is safe, yet effective in combating the symptoms of depression and in achieving a lasting mental balance.
Natural antidepressants - which ones to choose?
When creating our ranking of the best natural antidepressants, we looked at the following criteria:
- Is the supplement effective in action?
- Is its composition simple and does it not contain substances that adversely affect health?
- Are the plant extracts used in the supplement standardised?
- Is the supplement easy to use?
- Does it cause adverse reactions?
- Does it contain additional ingredients to support the body's health?
- What is the recommended daily intake of the supplement?
- How long will one packet of the supplement last?
- Does the price match the quality and performance of the supplement?
What ingredients should a natural antidepressant contain?
The following herbal ingredients work best in alleviating the symptoms of depression:
St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) - is one of the most well-known herbs for depression. Studies have shown that it can help with mild to moderate depressive conditions, acting similarly to antidepressants. However, prolonged or excessive use of St John's wort increases the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation and may contribute to hyperpigmentation. In addition, the plant weakens the effects of antidepressants and contraceptive drugs.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) - is a plant with strong adaptogenic properties. Often used in supplements for its safety of use, ability to regulate stress levels, improve sleep quality and overall wellbeing. It can relieve anxiety and tension often associated with depression.
Melissa (Melissa officinalis) - calms, soothes and improves mood. May be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety and may benefit sleep quality.
Rhodiola rosea (Rhodiola rosea) - is another adaptogen that increases resistance to stressors and improves mood. In studies, rhodiola rosea has been shown to reduce feelings of fatigue and tiredness and benefit overall mental state.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) - has a strong sedative effect. When used in aromatherapy, lavender oil can effectively calm the mind and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Natural antidepressants - effects and properties
Natural antidepressants are substances of plant origin that can effectively improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Their action is milder than that of antidepressants, but they are equally effective in the treatment of mild to moderate depressive states. The action of natural antidepressants is based primarily on the regulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for good mood and mental balance.
Natural antidepressants, such as ashwagandha or rhodiola rosea, for example, do not have strong side effects, making their use safe and not addictive. They can be a good addition to therapy, especially in cases where the symptoms of depression are not very severe. However, you should always consult your doctor before starting to use plant-based antidepressants to avoid dangerous interactions with other medicines.
What are the best natural antidepressants?
The best natural antidepressants should have a pure and simple composition free of harmful substances or artificial fillers. Natural antidepressants should contain high quality standardised extracts extracted from plants or herbs that exhibit anti-anxiety, stress relief, sleep support and mood enhancing effects.
Natural antidepressants - how to use?
Natural antidepressants in the form of dietary supplements are taken orally. The dosage and detailed information on how to take them is always on the package label.
Natural antidepressants can also be used to support pharmacotherapy when treating depression. However, if this is the case, it is essential to consult a doctor before starting to use them.
Herbs for depression should be consumed sensibly and in moderation, preferably after consulting your doctor. When the use of natural antidepressants does not bring any improvement, an appointment should be made with a specialist for other treatment methods.
What are the effects of using natural antidepressants?
By taking natural antidepressants regularly, the following effects can be expected:
- Improved mood.
- Increased energy.
- Reduction in anxiety.
- Reduction in stress.
- Improved quality of sleep.