The FDA has approved a number of medications for the treatment of depression. If one is suffering from depression but is still wary about taking any of the prescribed medications for treatment, there are still natural options out there as well. Herbs and other natural supplements can also help one in the treatment of depression. They are centuries old and have proved effective in the treatment of depression naturally time and again. For people who experience chronic feelings of sadness and hopelessness, these herbs are marketed as mood boosters. Herein, we take a look at some of the herbs that may help uplift one’s mood when you are mildly depressed:

1. St. John’s wort
This is a plant that is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Although Europeans generally take St. John’s wort for the natural treatment of depression, the FDA has not approved of this herb. This herb acts by increasing the amount of serotonin in the body. People who are going through depression are usually running low on serotonin, which is a feel-good chemical in the brain. Although the effects of St. John’s wort has not been conclusively proven, it is believed to cure mild forms of depression. It is, however, important to check with your doctor before taking this herb, as it is known for interacting with lots of other medications.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids
This is a healthy type of fat found especially in fish like salmon, tuna, trout, and sardines. They are also available in the market in supplement form and are known as fish oil capsules. Including fish in one’s diet three times a week can help increase the level of omega-3 fatty acids without the aid of supplements. One will need to keep in mind that it is better to avoid fish that have high mercury content.

3. Saffron
Saffron is a dried spice that is actually derived from a dried portion of a crocus, a flower belonging to the Iris family. Taking saffron stigma has been shown to be effective in naturally treating mild to moderate depression.

4. Sam-e
Sam-e is short for S-adenosylmethionine. This is a supplement that is designed to act as a synthetic form of the body’s natural mood-boosting chemicals for the treatment of depression. It is regarded as a supplement as the FDA does not consider this as medication. The side effects of Sam-e, however, may include an upset stomach and constipation.

5. Folate
There may be a link between folic acid and depression. A good way to increase folate levels in your body is by consuming folate-rich foods daily. Some of the foods rich in folate are beans, lentils, sunflower seeds, and avocados.

6. Zinc
Mental functions such as learning and behavior are linked with zinc. Depression is associated with low zinc levels. Taking a 25-milligram zinc supplement for a period of twelve weeks can help reduce depression symptoms. Zinc supplements can also increase the amount of available omega-3 fatty acids in the body.