The Amazing Natural Substance that treats Depression and Anxiety

Turmeric is a natural substance to treat anxiety and depression.

The Amazing Natural Substance that treats Depression and Anxiety

Want to manage anxiety and depression as well as double down on a dose of wellness? We have one incredible natural health, food substance to report to you. Turmeric is a rhizome and a member of the ginger family. Turmeric a major ingredient of Indian curries and has also been used to dye clothing throughout history, due to its vivid yellow color. The scientific community continues to research its uses as a healing substance, specifically trying to gauge the mechanism of action and effectiveness of the active substance, curcumin.

Curcumin is known as the most active ingredient in turmeric and continues to intrigue the medical community with its ability to providing relief for symptoms like depression and anxiety. According to a recent metanalysis funded by The National Institute of Health, curcumin was shown to be safe and effective in reducing symptoms of depression (Hewlings, 2017). That study recommended that while there are some conclusive therapeutic effects in treating depression, more research should be done to determine it’s clinical role in the treatment of anxiety.

Turmeric entered the clinical limelight when researches wanted to investigate the differences in cancer rates between westerners and some eastern and Indian populations. Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine have used these plants for thousands of years. Natural and holistic health options find ways to use the medicinal properties of commonly used foods to enhance well-

being. Some common ways of administering them are by grinding them into a fine powder, then using it topically as a salve or ingesting them to treat multiple ailments ranging from skin lesions to memory enhancement.

While the mechanisms of Turmeric’s health and wellness benefits are not completely understood, it is believed that curcumins ability to reduce inflammation, is one of the major health enhancing properties which can affect the brain, cancer, lupus, and renal disease. Curcumins also have other functions in addition to reducing symptoms of depression, it benefits the entire body and can be used as protection from liver toxic substances, to manage Crohn’s disease, reduce symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome to name a few (Gupta, 2013). In addition to reducing symptoms, this amazing root is reported to also enhance post work out recovery, (Hewlings, 2017. ) Turmeric is not a replacement for pharmaceuticals treating depression. Patients should still seek advice from medical professionals since other medical conditions need to be ruled out. Nor does it replace the benefits of managing the symptoms of depression or anxiety by getting counseling. Rather, it viewed as complementary to current therapeutic options.

The beneficial effects of turmeric on health is dose-dependent. It is not sufficient to heap an extra serving of curry at your favorite Indian restaurant in hopes of healing the brain and body. The clinically relevant dose of turmeric is upwards 600 mg several times per day. We recommend that the reader consult with a clinical Herbalist or Nutritionist to assess the appropriate regimen to manage the symptoms that you aim to address. Most sources recommend turmeric in capsule form to standardize the dosage. Some also enjoy turmeric in a latte or smoothie for added tasting pleasure. There is also some research being done about whether it may be further beneficial to use turmeric as an accompaniment to black pepper and some other fats like coconut milk, which are known to allow greater absorption of the active compounds. With no known side effects and so much to gain, curcumin seems like a great place to start if you want neuro-protective and physically benefits all in one delicious root!

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• Gupta, S. C., Patchva, S., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2013). Therapeutic Roles of Curcumin: Lessons Learned from Clinical Trials. The AAPS Journal, 15(1), 195–218. http://doi.org/10.1208/s12248-012-9432-8
• Hewlings, S. J., & Kalman, D. S. (2017). Curcumin: A Review of Its’ Effects on Human Health. Foods, 6(10), 92. http://doi.org/10.3390/foods6100092
• Lopresti AL, Drummond PD (2017) Efficacy of curcumin, and a saffron/curcumin combination for the treatment of major depression: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Affect Disord.

Can Supplements Help With Anxiety and Depression?

Supplements are not a proven treatment for anxiety or depression, though research into some of them is ongoing. Any effects tend to be small, and the evidence so far is limited and mixed. They are best thought of as one small piece, not a solution.

Anxiety and depression are real health conditions that usually respond best to professional care. Some people ask their doctor about supplements as a possible complement to that care. What seems to help one person may not help another.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, there is not enough strong evidence to recommend most supplements for depression or anxiety. We see professional care as the real foundation.

If you are struggling with your mood, cognitive behavioral therapy can offer caring, proven support. You deserve more than a quick fix.

Do I Need to Talk to My Doctor Before Taking Supplements?

Yes, it is wise to talk to your doctor before taking any supplement. Even products labeled natural can affect your body in real ways. A quick conversation helps keep you safe.

Your doctor can tell you whether a supplement might interact with your medications or health conditions. This is especially important if you are already being treated for anxiety or depression. They can help you make a choice that is right for you.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, supplements can interact with medications, so it is important to talk with your healthcare provider before taking them. We see that conversation as a smart first step.

If you have questions about your care and what is safe alongside it, our medication management team can help. A trusted professional is your best guide.

Are There Risks to Taking Supplements?

Yes, there can be risks to taking supplements, even ones described as natural. Natural does not always mean safe for everyone. It is worth understanding what you are taking and why.

Supplements can interact with medications, affect existing health conditions, or vary in quality from product to product. More is not always better, and some can cause side effects. This is why guidance from a professional matters.

According to the National Institutes of Health, dietary supplements are not required to be proven safe and effective before they are sold. We see caution and good information as the safest path.

If you want whole-person support for your wellbeing, wellness counseling can help. Caring for yourself includes staying informed.

What Are Natural Ways to Support Mental Health?

Natural ways to support mental health include steady sleep, regular movement, connection with others, and time to rest. These everyday habits can have a real, gentle impact on how you feel. They work best as part of an overall caring routine.

Simple steps like getting outside, moving your body, and staying connected can lift your mood over time. Setting a steady daily rhythm helps too. These habits support professional care, rather than replacing it.

According to the American Psychological Association, habits like regular sleep, physical activity, and social connection support mental wellbeing. We see these as small, caring investments in yourself.

A gentle practice like meditation is one natural way to care for your mind. Small steps, repeated often, add up.

Can Supplements Replace Therapy or Medication?

No, supplements cannot replace therapy or medication for mental health conditions. They may be something to ask your doctor about, but they are not a substitute for real care. Anxiety and depression deserve proven support.

A healthy lifestyle and a doctor-approved supplement can be one part of caring for yourself. Alongside them, therapy and other professional care address mental health more fully. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression and anxiety are most effectively treated with therapy, medication, or both. We see professional care as the heart of feeling better.

If you are struggling, counseling services can connect you with caring, professional support. You deserve full care for your mental health.