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Updated: Jul 19, 2024

10 Best Herbal Creams For Depression

herbal creams for depression overview

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.

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.

passiflora incarnata herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

valeriana officinalis herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

hypericum perforatum herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

lavandula angustifolia herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

citrus oto herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

ginkgo biloba herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

curcuma longa herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

avena sativa herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

calendula officinalis herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

echinacea purpurea herbal creams for depression

Medicinal Constituents

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

Parts Used

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

Quick 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.

What ailments similar to depression are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to depression/creams.html">depression/creams.html">depression that are treated with herbal creams are anxiety disorders, stress-related conditions, and insomnia.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and valerian root can help soothe the nervous system, reduce feelings of worry and unease, and promote relaxation.

These creams may also contain adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha or rhodiola, which help the body adapt to stress and promote a sense of calm.