The 11 Best Herbs for Depression

Depression can have a deep, distressing effect on physical and mental health and often causes debilitating symptoms. Using herbs and natural remedies for depression may support common symptoms and act as a natural mood booster.

This article reviews some of the most effective clinical research behind the best herbs for depression.

Overview:

Depression is a mood disorder that is often characterized as persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in previously rewarding activities.

As many as 14.4% of the US population struggle with symptoms of depression.

Depression can be broken up into a variety of different categories. It can range from mild to severe. It can also be brought on by different causes, including postpartum.

The 11 Best Herbs for Depression:

Below are the best research-backed herbs for depression. These herbal antidepressants have been shown to support mental health through a variety of different mechanisms.

1. St. John’s Wort

Numerous studies have shown that St. John’s wort is a safe and effective natural herb for depression. It’s typically used for moderate depression.

A 2017 review article summarizing 27 studies compared St. John’s wort and Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in a participant pool of 3,808. SSRIs are common antidepressant drugs that are often prescribed for those with depression disorders. The studies found that St. John’s wort was as effective as SSRIs in treating depressive symptoms. 

In a double-blind study, St. John’s wort extract was compared to fluoxetine (an SSRI) in a group of elderly subjects with mild-to-moderate depression. Researchers found that St. John’s wort was just as effective as fluoxetine and elicited no adverse effects on cognitive performance. 

Another clinical trial comparing St. John’s wort extract to imipramine (an antidepressant drug) found that both treatments were effective in improving the quality of life in subjects with depression. Although they were comparable, St. John’s wort was found to be better tolerated among participants. 

Two different types of St. John’s wort extract were examined in another double-blind study. Researchers discovered that the content level of hyperforin, the primary chemical component in St. John’s wort, was responsible for the effectiveness of the extract. The higher the hyperforin content, the more effective the extract was found to be.

In a trial observing those with depression, St. John’s wort extract was found to be effective for treating mild-to-moderate forms of depression. However, the extract was found to not be helpful for those suffering from major depression. 

The Commission E, a German government health agency, mentions that St. John’s wort is appropriate to use in cases of depressive moods, anxiety, and nervous unrest.

The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP) also reports that St. John’s wort is useful for mild-to-moderate depressive states, restlessness, anxiety, and irritability. 

2. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is known to be one of the best herbs for postpartum depression. As such, it’s especially helpful for pregnant or nursing mothers.

In a clinical trial, 60 women who underwent cesarean sections were observed for postpartum depression. Lemon balm was administered at 500mg, 3x/day for 10 days. The lemon balm was shown to significantly reduce the occurrence of postpartum depression.  

An 8-week study found that lemon balm was helpful for reducing depressive symptoms in participants with sleeping issues and anxiety. The results also showed improved sleep quality as well as a reduction in stress and anxiety levels.

In another trial, lemon balm tea, taken 2x/day was found to ease anxiety and depression in hospitalized burn patients. The tea was also able to improve sleep quality.   

A combination study found that lemon balm and Persian lavender had the ability to improve depression and anxiety symptoms in those suffering from severe insomnia.