Learn about Herbs for Mood Swings

Learn about Herbs for Mood Swings
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Herbs for Mood Swings

Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil is thought to help mood swings by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has been described as the brain’s own mood-elevating drug.

Evening primrose oil is available as an oil or as capsules.

Valerian Root

Valerian root has a calming effect on the central nervous system and can help relieve mood swings. It has similar effects as valium, which increases a chemical in the brain called gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), but is not habit forming.

Valerian root is available as capsules. To prepare a cup of tea, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried herb, cover, steep for 10 minutes, and strain.

Passion Flower

Native Americans have known about the benefits of passion flower for over 200 years. It treats mood swings similar to valerian root but is not as potent.

Passion flower is available as capsules. To prepare a cup of tea, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried herb, cover, steep for 10 minutes, and strain.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort helps mood swings by balancing fluctuating neurotransmitters.

St. John’s wort is available as capsules. To make a cup of tea, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb, cover, steep for 5 minutes, and strain.

Chasteberry

Chasteberry can stabilize mood by re-balancing hormone levels. It is particularly helpful in treating mood swings related to premenstrual syndrome and menopause.

Chasteberry is available as capsules. To prepare a cup of tea, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried berries, cover, steep for 8-10 minutes, and strain.

Other herbs for mood swings include:

  • chamomile
  • sage
  • ginkgo biloba
  • yarrow
  • black cohosh
  • rhodiola rosea
  • American ginseng
  • lavender
  • winter cherry

Photo Credit

Image courtesy of https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Marchand_models_in_Buffalo_Museum_of_Science_-_IMG_3828.JPG

Disclaimer

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