10 Best Herbal Creams For Depression

Herbal creams for depression are topical formulations containing plant-based ingredients that help alleviate symptoms of depression.

These creams work by releasing mood-boosting essential oils into the skin, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

Examples include creams infused with lavender, chamomile, and ashwagandha, which have been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance sleep quality, ultimately improving the lives of individuals struggling with depression.

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The following article describes in detail the most important creams for depression, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with depression because it contains a high concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids, which have a calming and sedative effect on the nervous system.

These compounds interact with neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and GABA, to regulate mood and reduce anxiety.

By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, Passiflora incarnata creams may alleviate symptoms of depression, including irritability and restlessness, allowing individuals to feel more balanced and at ease.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with depression.

• Isovitexin: This flavonoid has been shown to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects by reducing stress and anxiety levels, contributing to its potential in treating depression.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have been found to possess antidepressant properties by influencing neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood and emotions.
• Harmane: This alkaloid has been reported to have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety levels.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for depression.

• Roots: Alkaloids present in Passiflora incarnata roots, such as passifloric acid, are believed to contribute to their anxiolytic and antidepressant properties.
• Leaves: The flavonoids and phenolic compounds found in the leaves are thought to have a positive effect on mood regulation and may help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Fruits: The fruit of Passiflora incarnata, rich in vitamin C and other nutrients, is sometimes used to create a cream that may help stabilize mood and reduce stress.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for depression.

1. Harvest passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves from a clean source when they are in full bloom for 2 hours.
2. Dry the passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 days.
3. Steep 20 grams of dried passiflora incarnata flowers and 10 grams of dried passiflora incarnata leaves in 500 milliliters of coconut oil at 100 degrees fahrenheit for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the passiflora incarnata infused oil and discard the solids then add 10 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of shea butter to melt.
5. Mix the melted beeswax and shea butter with the passiflora incarnata infused oil and pour the mixture into a container to cool for 30 minutes.

2. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with depression because of its adaptogenic properties that promote emotional balance and reduce stress levels.

The active compounds in valerian root, such as valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, interact with the brain's GABA receptors, producing a calming effect. This can lead to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and enhanced sleep quality, all of which are crucial in managing depression.

By addressing the underlying causes of depression, valerian creams provide a natural and non-invasive approach to emotional well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with depression.

• Valerenic acid: This terpene acts as a GABA receptor agonist, helping to reduce anxiety and stress-related symptoms associated with depression.
• Isovaleric acid: This organic compound is known to have anxiolytic and sedative effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression, including insomnia and restlessness.
• Valeranone: This sesquiterpene is thought to have a sedative effect by inhibiting the activity of certain neurotransmitters, such as GABA and serotonin, which play a crucial role in mood regulation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for depression.

• Roots: The roots contain valerenic acid, which has anxiolytic and sedative properties that help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Flowers: The flowers of Valeriana officinalis contain valeranone, a compound that has a calming effect and can help reduce anxiety associated with depression.
• Stems: Although not as widely used as roots, the stems of Valeriana officinalis may also contain some therapeutic properties, such as valerenic acid, which can help soothe and calm the mind and body.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for depression.

1. Harvest 1 pound of valeriana officinalis roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is dormant.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 2-3 weeks.
3. Grind 2 tablespoons of dried root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill.
4. Mix 1/4 cup of distilled water with 2 tablespoons of grated beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a saucepan.
5. Stir the mixture over low heat until the beeswax and shea butter are fully dissolved in about 10 minutes.

3. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with depression because of its unique ability to increase serotonin levels in the brain.

The active compounds in the herb, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to have a positive effect on mood regulation. By applying a topical cream to the skin, these compounds can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, where they can help alleviate symptoms of depression, including anxiety and low mood.

This can lead to improved overall mental well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with depression.

• Hyperforin: Acts as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.
• N-alkylamides: Have a neuroprotective effect by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which is often associated with depression.
• Quercetin: Exerts a potent antioxidant effect, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which helps to alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for depression.

• Leaves: Hypericum leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of hypericin, a key compound responsible for its antidepressant effects.
• Flowers: The flowers are used in creams for depression as they contain a high amount of hyperforin, a naphthodianthrone that has shown efficacy in treating mild to moderate depression.
• Seeds: The seeds of Hypericum perforatum are used for their rich content of hypericin and other bioactive compounds, contributing to the antidepressant properties of creams made from them.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for depression.

1. Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers at peak bloom for maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days.
3. Grind 10 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Mix 10 grams of the powder with 10 grams of beeswax in a double boiler over low heat.
5. Stir the mixture until the beeswax is fully incorporated and the cream reaches a smooth consistency.

4. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with depression because of its calming and soothing properties.

The fragrance of lavender has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress levels, promoting relaxation and serenity. The anti-inflammatory compounds present in lavender oil have also been found to have a positive impact on mood, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

By applying lavender creams topically, individuals can experience a sense of calm and tranquility, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with depression.

• Linalool: This terpene has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, helping to calm the mind and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene also found in lavender, linalyl acetate has been demonstrated to have a positive effect on mood, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties, luteolin may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are often associated with depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for depression.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of linalool and linalyl acetate, which are known for their calming and antidepressant properties.
• Leaves: They are used for their similar composition to flowers, providing a calming and soothing effect that can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Stems: They are used due to their ability to absorb and store the plant's essential oils, which can be extracted and used to create creams with antidepressant properties.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for depression.

1. Infuse 100 grams of dried lavandula flowers in 500 milliliters of carrier oil at room temperature for 2 weeks.
2. Strain the oil mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container to separate the infused oil.
3. Weigh 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of candelilla wax and melt them together in a double boiler.
4. Combine 20 milliliters of the infused oil with the melted wax mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.

5. Citrus oto

Citrus oto, also known as kaffir lime, creams helps with depression because of its unique combination of natural compounds that promote a sense of calm and well-being.

The creams often contain essential oils that have a uplifting and mood-enhancing effect, reducing stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Citrus oto help to soothe the mind and body, leading to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.

Regular use may also boost self-esteem and confidence.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Citrus oto creams that help with depression.

• Limonoids: These compounds, particularly limonin, have been shown to have antidepressant effects by modulating the neurotransmitter serotonin, which plays a crucial role in regulating mood.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have been found to have anxiolytic and antidepressant properties by reducing stress and anxiety levels, and also by modulating the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is involved in mood regulation.
• Volatile oils: These terpenes have been found to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects by reducing stress and anxiety levels, and also by modulating the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is involved in regulating mood.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of kaffir lime used to make creams for depression.

• Fruits: They are used to make creams for depression due to their high concentration of limonoids, which have been shown to have antidepressant properties.
• Peels (barks): They are used to make creams for depression due to their high concentration of limonoids and flavonoids, which have been shown to have antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
• Leaves: They are used to make creams for depression due to their high concentration of flavonoids, which have been shown to have antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kaffir lime for depression.

1. Infuse 1 cup of dried herbs in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Strain the herbal mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
3. Combine 1/2 cup of infused herbal liquid with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the beeswax melts and the mixture thickens.
5. Pour the warm mixture into small containers and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes.

6. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with depression because of its unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream is absorbed into the skin, where it may help improve blood circulation and oxygenation to the brain, potentially enhancing mood and cognitive function. By promoting a healthy balance of neurotransmitters, Ginkgo biloba cream may support the brain's natural response to stress and emotional regulation, providing a sense of calm and well-being.

This may contribute to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with depression.

• Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhapontigenin, have been shown to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects by modulating neurotransmitter activity and reducing inflammation in the brain.
• Terpenoids: Specifically, the terpenoids ginkgolides and bilobalide, have been found to have neuroprotective and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression by reducing oxidative stress and promoting neural health.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has been shown to have a positive effect on mood and cognitive function by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood and emotional well-being.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for depression.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are most commonly used to make creams for depression due to their high flavonoid and terpene content, which are believed to have neuroprotective and mood-enhancing effects.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are also used, as they contain a variety of flavonoids and terpenoids, including bilobalide, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
• (not enough to make a list of 3, so the last entry is only 2) leaves: (Although already mentioned in the first entry)

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for depression.

1. Harvest 20-30 ginkgo biloba leaves and dry them in a single layer at 50°c for 2 hours to preserve their potency.
2. Grind 2 tablespoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar.
3. Mix 1 teaspoon of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of ginkgo biloba powder to the melted beeswax mixture and stir well to combine thoroughly.
5. Remove the double boiler from the heat and let the mixture cool and solidify before whipping it into a creamy texture.

7. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with depression because of its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound curcumin, found in turmeric, has been shown to influence neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood. By reducing inflammation in the brain and promoting the growth of new neurons, curcuma longa creams may help alleviate symptoms of depression, including feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to promote mental well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with depression.

• Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate depression symptoms by reducing inflammation in the brain and promoting neural health.
• Tumerones: Tumerones have been shown to possess antidepressant properties by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood.
• Demethoxycurcumin: Demethoxycurcumin has been found to have antidepressant effects by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes involved in the degradation of neurotransmitters, thereby promoting a more stable mood.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for depression.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most used part due to their high content of curcumin, a bioactive compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Roots: Roots are also widely used due to their rich content of curcumin and other active compounds that help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Buds: Buds are used in some creams due to their high concentration of volatile oils, which have a calming effect and may help reduce symptoms of depression.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for depression.

1. Infuse 30g of curcuma longa rhizomes in 100ml of coconut oil for 2 weeks at room temperature.
2. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
3. Combine 30g of beeswax and 20g of shea butter in a double boiler over low heat.
4. Slowly add the infused oil to the beeswax mixture and stir until fully incorporated and smooth.
5. Pour the cream into a clean glass jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

8. Avena sativa

Avena sativa, also known as oats, creams helps with depression because it contains saponins and avenanthramides, which have been shown to have a positive impact on the brain's GABA receptors.

This helps to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. The cream's anti-inflammatory properties also alleviate stress and promote relaxation, leading to improved sleep quality and a sense of calmness.

As a result, individuals experiencing depression may find Avena sativa creams to be a helpful natural remedy for managing symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Avena sativa creams that help with depression.

• Ferulic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to have antidepressant-like effects by modulating neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation.
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid: As a neurotransmitter, GABA helps regulate stress and anxiety responses in the brain. Avena sativa may contain GABA or GABA-like compounds, which can contribute to its anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
• Avenanthramides: These unique phenolic compounds, found only in Avena sativa, have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They may help alleviate depression symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of oats used to make creams for depression.

• Seeds: Avena sativa seeds are used due to their high content of fatty acids and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which can help regulate mood and reduce anxiety.
• Leaves: Avena sativa leaves are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and other polyphenols, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Flowers: Avena sativa flowers are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, which can help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of depression by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oats for depression.

1. Infuse 1 tablespoon of dried avena sativa in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes.
2. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth into a bowl and discard the solids.
3. Mix 1 teaspoon of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of the avena sativa infusion and 1 teaspoon of shea butter to the mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes.

9. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with depression because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The cream's ability to soothe and calm irritated skin may also promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, contributing to a sense of well-being. Additionally, the calming scent of Calendula can have a positive effect on the mind, promoting a sense of tranquility and balance.

This can lead to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with depression.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have been found to have neuroprotective effects, potentially helping to prevent or slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, which can contribute to depressive symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have been shown to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant-like effects, possibly due to their ability to modulate the activity of neurotransmitters and reduce inflammation in the brain.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for depression.

• Flowers: They contain triterpenoid saponins and flavonoids, which may contribute to their anxiolytic effects by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and triterpenoid saponins, the leaves may have a synergistic effect with the flowers, further promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
• Seeds: Although less commonly mentioned, the seeds of Calendula officinalis may also contribute to the anxiolytic properties of creams, although more research is needed to confirm this.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for depression.

1. Infuse 10 grams of dried calendula officinalis flowers in 100 ml of oil for 2 weeks shaking daily.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl discard solids.
3. Combine 10 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Heat the beeswax and shea butter mixture in the double boiler until melted stirring occasionally for 10 minutes.
5. Mix the cooled infused oil with the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture stirring until smooth.

10. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with depression because it contains compounds that promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.

The anti-inflammatory properties of Echinacea purpurea may also contribute to its mood-boosting effects by reducing inflammation in the brain, which is often associated with depression.

Additionally, Echinacea purpurea creams may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety by calming the nervous system and promoting a sense of well-being, making it a potential natural remedy for individuals struggling with depression.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with depression.

• Icariin: Icariin is a flavonoid glycoside that helps with depression by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase enzymes, which can break down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, thereby increasing their availability and promoting a sense of well-being.
• Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the brain that is associated with depression, thereby promoting a sense of calmness and reducing symptoms of depression.
• Alkylphenol glycosides: Alkylphenol glycosides are a class of saponins that have been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant effects by interacting with neurotransmitter receptors and modulating the activity of various neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for depression.

• Roots: Echinacea roots are often used due to their high content of alkaloids, which are believed to have antidepressant properties.
• Flowers: Echinacea flowers are commonly used in skincare products due to their potential to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Leaves: Echinacea leaves are sometimes used in creams due to their possible adaptogenic effects, which can help the body cope with stress and anxiety associated with depression.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for depression.

1. Harvest 1 cup of echinacea purpurea flowers and roots from a clean area at the peak of their potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 40°c for 2 hours to preserve its properties.
3. Combine 1/2 cup of dried echinacea purpurea with 1/4 cup of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture in the double boiler at 60°c for 10 minutes to create a smooth consistency.
5. Add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to the mixture and whip it until it reaches a creamy texture.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for depression?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with depression is a blend of Ashwagandha and Lavender.

Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps regulate stress hormones and promotes relaxation, while Lavender oil soothes the mind and body, reducing anxiety and promoting calmness. The combination of these two herbs can also enhance the effectiveness of other treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. This natural approach can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall well-being.

It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.