Natural Remedies for the winter Blues
In just the past few weeks, there have been several suicides at area high schools 💔 and with each one our hearts grow heavier and heavier.
I had forgotten how tough January can be for so many. ❄️
Moving back to our home state of Utah just over a year ago where the brilliant blue skies of winter often get masked by grey smog and storm clouds that stretch on for days it’s easy to see how real seasonal affective disorder can be.
depression cannot be cured with herbs and foods alone,
BUT THEY CAN AND DO HELP
here are some resources if you or someone you love are struggling with seasonal affective disorder.
Magnesium
80% of Americans are low, and many are very low in this important mineral. Magnesium is a co-factor in 300+ biochemical reactions in the body so it makes sense that it gets rapidly depleted at times of stress.
The good news is studies show dramatic improvement of symptoms in 30% of cases when magnesium levels are increased. Studies have also shown that 500mg of magnesium a day is an important piece of the puzzle for treatment resistant depression as well as symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Magnesium Citrate is the form that causes loose stools – so when we need to restore magnesium levels, Magnesium Glycinate is the form that is better tolerated (if constipation is an issue, a blend of Citrate and Glycenate can be used)
its best to take magnesium two hours away from any medications, including those for reflux and osteoporosis.
And don’t forget about epsom salt baths – while its not a substitute for supplementation on a regular basis, its a great way to absorb magnesium through the skin, support detoxification to boost immune function and help improve sleep.
Vitamin D
Especially in areas where the sunshine 🌦disappears for days behind smoggy or stormy skies. Supplementation can make a big difference.
2000 IU a day is standard for those who’s levels are within normal levels,
4000 IU per day for 4-6 weeks for anyone with low Vitamin D Levels. Have your Dr test to make sure the levels are improving and as soon as they reach normal levels, back down to the lower level of supplementation.
Get moving
sustained movement does SO much for the body by helping to increase dopamine levels, improve liver function, invigorate circulation, improve glucose absorption and decrease insulin resistance –
if #anxiety is part of the problem, (and generally depression and anxiety go hand in hand) studies have shown that exercise is JUST AS EFFECTIVE as any anxiety medicine while also improving over all health and quality of life. 30 minutes a day of brisk, sustained movement can make a big difference.
St john’s wort
this cheery flower – which grows right here in the #wasatchmountains blooms at the summer solstice, when the days are longest and the sun rules the skies. It’s almost as though it stores all that sunny energy for those who need it most = as its most treasured for its ability to help those who struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Studies show 300 mg a day to be helpful and benefits improve when combined with light therapy, fish oil and a low inflammatory diet (more veggies, healthy protein and less sugar and processed foods) Its important to note that this herb does have some interactions with SSRI’s and shouldn’t be taken within 2 hours of other pharmaceuticals.
Albizzia ~ Silk Tree bark ~Mimosa flower
in times of heart break, sorrow and grief. This sweet herb (we use both the bark and the flower) has an affinity for carrying heavy hearts. Especially when part of a formula, it can really help on days when #tears 😭seem to come often and out of nowhere.
I look forward to their happy blooms all year – often reminding me of pages of my favorite Dr Suess books from my childhood.
The flowers are sticky and difficult to dry so tinctures and extracts are generally the best form, but the bark is lovely in tea. A beautiful blend of herbs to nourish the blood, the heart and soothe the mind bring out the best in this herb.
There is some limited research that shows it could be contraindicated for those with estrogen dominant breast cancer – so work with a qualified practitioner if you have concerns.