Depression and Mood

 

Changes in mood can be from a wide variety of factors, from stress to changes in hormones. This can affect our quality of life, especially if people are having trouble being happy. Here are some supplements that may help support emotional well being. One agent is not superior to the other, so it is difficult to recommend one product over another. Every person will experience the supplements differently, and the best product for you may depend more on trial and error than anything else.

 

Table of Contents

 

1. Nutraceutical

1.1. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)

1.2. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)

1.3. S-Adenosyl methionine (SAMe)

2. Herbal

2.1. St. John’s wort

2.2. Lavender

 

DHEA

 

DHEA is a steroid hormone precursor to make male and female sex hormones. DHEA levels decrease as people become older. Supplementation is used to support hormonal balance and reduce depression.

 

5-HTP

 

5-HTP is an amino acid that act as the building block for other important molecules in the body, like serotonin and melatonin. As a result, supplementation with 5-HTP is thought to reduce depression and improve sleep. 

 

SAMe

 

SAMe is a substance produced by the body from the amino acid methionine. Abnormal levels have been suggested to contribute to depression and liver disease. Some users have also reported that supplementation resulted in improvements in their osteoarthritis symptoms. Enteric coated formulation can help reduce degradation by stomach acid.

 

St. John’s wort

 

St. John’s wort is a plant with both the flowers and leaves used medicinally to improve mood and reduce depression; however, the flowers are more commonly used. Care should be taken when taken as a supplement as it has drug-drug interactions with many prescription medications.

 

Lavender

 

The flower and leaf of the lavender plant are used medicinally for anxiety, mood, and sleep.