Could it really be true that a natural remedy for depression and anxiety really exists? For many the answer has been a resounding “Yes”! Ironically at two of these simple solutions could be located right under your nose with the other above your head.

We all have experienced the smells that make us forget about our problems and return to happier time and place. The smell of fresh bread or of a wood burning fireplace are two common examples. This is the goal of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is a version of herbal medicine which uses plant oils to produce a state of psychological and physical well being. There are over 100 plant oils used in the science of aromatherapy including lavender, lemon, and peppermint. Practitioners of this type of alternative medicine claim that is an effective natural remedy for depression and anxiety that allows a person to release their troubles and unlock buried emotions. Aromatherapy is based on the idea that drawing essential oils into the body by smell stimulates the brain in positive ways. These oils can be inhaled, rubbed on the skin, used in bathwater, or part of a massage therapy program.

Our second natural remedy for anxiety and depression is diet modification. Stressful disorders can cause a person’s healthy eating habits to go haywire. One person will binge while another will starve themselves. Comfort foods will start to look more and more attractive leading to brain malfunctioning and ultimately anxiety and depression causing nutritional deficiencies. If you had to pick one food type that contributes to mental disorders it would be that of simple carbohydrates. The problems with simple carbohydrates is that they burn too quickly leading to a flood of insulin which causes blood sugar levels to fall. Once this occurs anxiety and/or depression, combined with irritability, and more cravings for simple sugars can’t be far behind.

Our third natural remedy for depression and anxiety is to get enough light in your life. Studies show that both anxiety and depression are highest in geographies or seasons where the days are shorter. Light therapy is often suggested as a treatment for seasonal affective disorder but it can be expensive. For most a common sense approach might be a better option. For example during your lunch break take a walk outside when the sun is shining. If you are a stay at home mom/dad round up the kids and enjoy the sunshine. I know this is easier said than done so make it a point to write it on your day planner under things to do.

What Next? So far we have covered aromatherapy, diet modification, and light therapy. For some this will be enough to relieve that stubborn anxiety or nagging depression, for others perhaps an additional step is needed; herbal remedies for depression. Herbal remedies for depression containing ingredients such as St. John’s wort have shown to be a safe and effective way to manage mild to moderate anxiety and depression. Certainly in trying to find a natural remedy for depression and anxiety you will be faced with attempting to determine what best suits your situation. The best advice is not to get discouraged or over think your decision to a point of procrastination. If one doesn’t work simply move on until you find one that does.