While pathologies such as depression are on the rise, there are also treatments with pills and drugs to counteract it. Regardless of its effectiveness or not, avoiding dependence on chemical components and approaching natural treatments can be healthier.
There are multiple signs that could indicate that a person suffers from depression, especially if they occur repeatedly: decreased mood that ends in sadness, alterations in mood, energy, appetite, sleep and psychomotor processing (delay or agitation), irritability, loss of interest in activities, feelings of guilt, excessive self-criticism, concentration problems and in more serious cases, suicidal ideas.
In 2011, I was fortunate enough to be introduced to a non-profit entity that was recently awarded four of the eight medical cannabis licenses in Maine. Known for their medicinal and natural effects, here is a list of plants and herbs free of dependent substances. And best of all cheaper and available to everyone.
Melisa or Melissa
Its predominant property is the relaxant, so it is commonly used in cases of stress, insomnia or anxiety problems. It also has antispasmodic effects, that is, it comes in handy in case of physical efforts, to relieve muscle tension, and also to relieve spasms of the digestive system.
Grass of San Juan
It calms the nervous system and fulfills the function of stabilizing the mood. It should not be consumed mixed with antidepressant medications, as it could increase its effects. Nor should it be exposed to the sun who consumes it, since it is a photosensitive plant that could stain the skin.
Valerian
Valerian flowers are the most popular remedy for stress treatment. It has calming effects, specially indicated for rest and sleep. It is also recommended to relieve the pain caused by menstruation.
Ginseng
One of its most important qualities is to maintain the balance between yin and yang of the organism. Unlike what is commonly believed, ginseng does not produce excitement or nervousness, but balances the body’s energy, stimulating in cases of depression, sadness or exhaustion, and producing a sedative effect in cases of stress or anxiety.
Lavender
Its smell is very nice. It relieves and relaxes nerves. Indicated in cases of tension, insomnia, stress or anxiety. It also has antispasmodic, antiseptic and diuretic properties.
Chamomile
Chamomile is one of the most effective herbs for treating any nervous disorder, such as anxiety and insomnia, especially those that are reflected in indigestion disorders. A good infusion of chamomile soothes and allows you to take a break from the hectic and stressful daily life.
Sage
Sage has endless medicinal properties, including improving memory and clarifying the mind. It acts at emotional levels, precisely the area that promotes stress, restoring balance and spiritual calm.
Ylang Ylang
It has relaxing and stimulating properties, so it is oil widely used in cases of depression or sadness since on the one hand, it helps relaxation, calms anxiety and palpitations and helps to rest at night, and on the other hand, its penetrating and sweet aroma improves mood and helps stimulate positive sensations.
Tarragon
Tarragon is considered a very useful herb to combat stress because it has analgesic properties, which lead to the relaxation of the body and feel at peace. This plant favors appetite and mental balance.
Poppy
The alkaloids of the poppy are rhoeadina, rearrubina, and reagenina, are in high concentration in its petals and stem and have sedative properties, so it is widely used in cases of insomnia, anxiety, depression, nervousness, etc.
Its calming effect can also be used to alleviate any disorder derived from a nervous disorder, for example, a dry cough.