When alternative depression treatments do more harm than good

When alternative depression treatments do more harm than good

Depression is a serious disease that causes isolation and withdrawal and sometimes suicidal thoughts. It is now often treated with antidepressants that are very effective but can have serious side effects.

lillaby / Pixabay

Prescribed antidepressants are very expensive and those who do not have health coverage may be tempted to try alternative depressive treatments. CAM treatments (complementary and alternative medicine), such as herbal medicines, have proven effective in the treatment of depression, but can sometimes be more harmful than useful.

Many people who suffer from depression have a shortage of vitamins and minerals and when this is corrected, the depression decreases and the person almost immediately feel better. Fortunately, there is little danger in taking vitamin supplements that help depression, but large amounts of everything can cause serious problems and imbalances in your system.

Below are some common alternative treatments for depression and the dangers of taking these:

• St. John’s Wort – This herb has had great success in the treatment of depression, but it can be dangerous for certain people. It is a medicine that is regulated in some countries, but not in the United States because it is considered a ‘natural’ product.

St. John’s Wort can be dangerous when it blocks the molecule, tyramine. Tyramine affects blood pressure and when it is blocked blood pressure can rise and a stroke may develop.

• Ginkgo Biloba – If you are taking blood-thinning medicines such as aspirin or warfarin, problems may occur with the intake of Ginkgo Biloba. You may also have an allergic reaction if you are also allergic to mango, sumac, poison ivy, and oak.

• Ginsing – This is an herb that can be dangerous if mixed with prescribed medicines and caffeine drinks such as coffee.
.
You should always be careful when taking an alternative treatment. Remember that even if a product has the label \ natural \ it does not mean that it is safe for you to take – especially if you are using prescription drugs or have a condition that could negatively affect the treatment.