10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Depression

Herbal decoctions for depression are a natural approach to managing symptoms of depression by using a combination of herbs, roots, and flowers to create a soothing liquid extract.

This traditional remedy helps alleviate depression by promoting relaxation, improving mood, and enhancing overall well-being. Examples of herbal decoctions that help with depression include St. John's Wort, Passionflower, and Lavender, which can be consumed as tea or added to bath water for a calming soak.

These decoctions have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, allowing individuals to improve their quality of life by increasing energy levels, enhancing sleep patterns, and fostering a sense of calm and well-being.

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

1. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop decoctions helps with depression because they contain a unique combination of compounds that interact with neurotransmitters in the brain, promoting a sense of calm and reducing symptoms of anxiety and stress.

The alkaloids and glycosides present in maypop extracts have been shown to enhance serotonin levels, improving mood and emotional regulation.

Additionally, the soothing properties of maypop decoctions can help alleviate physical tension and discomfort associated with depression, allowing individuals to feel more grounded and centered.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Harmane: Harmane is a beta-carboline alkaloid that acts as a serotonin receptor modulator, helping to regulate mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
• Isovitexin: Isovitexin is a flavonoid that exhibits antidepressant properties by modulating the activity of neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation.
• Passiflorine: Passiflorine is an aporphine alkaloid that has been shown to possess sedative and anxiolytic effects, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata are commonly used to make decoctions for depression due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly harmine and harmaline, which have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
• Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are used to make decoctions for depression because they contain flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins that have been shown to have a positive impact on mood regulation and stress relief.
• Seeds: The seeds of Passiflora incarnata are also used to make decoctions for depression due to their high content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may contribute to their potential antidepressant effects.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 to 2 ounces of dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in a clean container.
2. Combine the passiflora incarnata with 2 cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass bowl.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes or until the liquid reduces to 1 cup.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the passiflora incarnata decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

2. Hypericum perforatum

St John's wort decoctions helps with depression because they contain flavonoids and hyperforin, which have been shown to inhibit reuptake of serotonin and other neurotransmitters.

This increases the levels of these mood-boosting chemicals in the brain, effectively alleviating symptoms of depression such as feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue. Additionally, St John's wort decoctions may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are often linked to depressive disorders.

By promoting a sense of calm and well-being, these herbal decoctions can provide natural relief from the debilitating effects of depression.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hypericin: It has a neuroprotective effect and can help regulate neurotransmitter activity, particularly serotonin and dopamine, to alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Hyperforin: This compound has been shown to have a potent effect on neurotransmitter regulation, increasing serotonin and dopamine levels while reducing reuptake, thereby helping to improve mood.
• Nortriptyline-like alkaloids: These compounds have a tricyclic antidepressant-like effect, influencing neurotransmitter activity to alleviate symptoms of depression, such as mood disturbances and sleep disorders.

Plant's Parts

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

• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and hyperforin, which have antidepressant properties.
• Leaves: Contain hyperforin and other bioactive compounds that contribute to the antidepressant effects of the plant.
• Roots: Act as a reservoir for bioactive compounds, including hyperforin, which are released during the plant's growth cycle.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh or 100-200 grams dried st johns wort flowers and leaves for decoction.
2. Clean and chop the harvested plant material into smaller pieces for easier infusion.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let the decoction simmer for 10-15 minutes to release active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

3. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian decoctions helps with depression because it contains a unique combination of compounds that have a profound impact on the brain's neurotransmitters.

The alkaloids found in valerian root, such as valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, act as GABA receptor agonists, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. This, in turn, helps to alleviate symptoms of depression by stabilizing mood and improving sleep quality.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in valerian decoctions may help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which has been linked to depression.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Isovaleric acid esters: These constituents are known to act as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptor agonists, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression by enhancing the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, promoting a sense of calmness and reducing anxiety.
• Valerenic acid: This terpene has been shown to interact with GABA receptors, as well as other neurotransmitter systems, potentially reducing stress and anxiety by modulating the body's response to stress and promoting relaxation.
• Valeranone: This valerenic acid derivative is a known modulator of GABA receptors, which may contribute to its antidepressant effects by enhancing GABA-mediated neurotransmission and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high content of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for the plant's sedative and antidepressant properties.
• Stems: Valerenic acid is also found in the stems, although in lower concentrations than in the roots, making them a secondary choice for decoctions.
• (leaves would be a secondary choice) leaves: Although not as potent as roots and stems, the leaves still contain some valerenic acid and are used in some traditional preparations for their mild sedative effects.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 fresh valeriana officinalis roots in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Rinse the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris present.
3. Chop the roots into small pieces and weigh 2-3 grams to use in the decoction.
4. Combine the chopped roots with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain it and discard the solids.

4. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with depression because it contains compounds that have been shown to have a positive impact on the nervous system.

The decoction's flavonoids and terpenes help to regulate serotonin levels, leading to improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate feelings of lethargy and fatigue often associated with depression.

By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, maidenhair tree decoctions provide a natural and holistic approach to managing depressive episodes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds help with depression by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting neuroprotection in the brain.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone helps with depression by modulating neurotransmitter systems, including the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and dopamine pathways, to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid helps with depression by inhibiting inflammatory pathways, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, and promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory genes, leading to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have antidepressant properties.
• Buds: They are used to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, which can contribute to depression.
• Seeds: They are used to help alleviate symptoms of depression by promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

Recipe

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

1. Weigh 250-500 milligrams of ginkgo biloba dried leaves and flowers for decoction.
2. Combine the weighed ginkgo biloba with 8-10 cups of water in a large saucepan.
3. Boil the mixture over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.

5. Citrus oto

Kaffir lime decoctions helps with depression because it stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep.

The citrusy scent of kaffir lime has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing anxiety and stress levels. Additionally, the antioxidants present in the decoction help to combat oxidative stress, which is often linked to depression.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, herbal kaffir lime decoctions can provide relief from symptoms of depression.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds have been shown to have antidepressant properties by modulating neurotransmitter activity, reducing inflammation, and improving mood.
• Coumarins: Coumarins, such as bergamottin, have been found to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation.
• Limonene: Limonene has been shown to have antidepressant-like effects by reducing anxiety and stress, improving mood, and modulating the activity of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Used for decoctions related to depression due to their flavonoid content which has been shown to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
• Rhyzomes: Used for decoctions related to depression due to their bioactive compounds, such as limonoids, which have been found to possess antidepressant properties.
• Flowers: Used for decoctions related to depression due to their flavonoid and phenolic content which has been shown to have a positive effect on mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 handful of dried citrus leaves and 2 tablespoons of roots from the herb.
2. Combine the dried citrus leaves and roots in a 2-quart pot with 4 cups of water.
3. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a large bowl discarding the solids.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

6. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender decoctions helps with depression because of its calming and mood-enhancing properties.

The herbal remedy contains linalool, a natural oil that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety. When consumed as a decoction, it can help alleviate symptoms of depression by promoting a sense of calmness and tranquility.

Additionally, the floral scent of lavender has been shown to have a profound impact on mental well-being, reducing stress and promoting feelings of joy and contentment.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: This terpene acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Linalyl acetate: Similar to linalool, this terpene also has anxiolytic and sedative effects, contributing to a calming atmosphere that may help mitigate depressive symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, potentially contributing to improved mood and reduced depressive symptoms.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make decoctions for depression due to their calming effects and high concentration of essential oils.
• Flowers: The flowers of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make decoctions for depression due to their high concentration of linalool, a compound known for its antidepressant properties.
• Roots: The roots of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make decoctions for depression due to their ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250 grams of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers or 100 grams of dried flowers for decoction.
2. Clean the flowers thoroughly and remove any debris or stems from the flowers.
3. Combine the flowers with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes allowing the mixture to infuse.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

7. Avena sativa

Oats decoctions helps with depression because they contain flavonoids, antioxidants, and phenolic acids that have a calming effect on the nervous system.

The soothing properties of oats help to reduce anxiety and stress levels, promoting relaxation and serenity.

Additionally, the beta-glucans in oats decoctions may help to regulate serotonin levels, which can improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Avenanthramides: These phenolic compounds in Avena sativa have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
• Biotin: Avena sativa is a rich source of biotin, a B-complex vitamin that plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter synthesis and mood regulation. Biotin deficiency has been linked to depression, and supplementing with biotin may help alleviate depressive symptoms.
• Glycosides: Avena sativa contains various glycosides, including avenacoside and avenalin, which may have a sedative effect and help reduce anxiety and stress-related symptoms of depression.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: The roots of Avena sativa contain a high amount of saponins, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression by reducing inflammation and stress.
• Seeds: Avena sativa seeds are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that can be converted into serotonin in the brain, helping to improve mood.
• Flowers: The flowers of Avena sativa are believed to have a calming effect, reducing anxiety and stress associated with depression.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of dried avena sativa root and set it aside for decoction preparation.
2. Combine the dried root in a saucepan with 500ml of boiling water and reduce heat to medium.
3. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has been reduced to 250ml.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

8. Eleutherococcus senticosus

Siberian ginseng decoctions helps with depression because it possesses adaptogenic properties that help the body cope with stress, anxiety, and fatigue.

The decoction's unique blend of bioactive compounds, including panaxosides, panaxquinones, and saponins, promotes the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for mood regulation.

Additionally, Siberian ginseng has been shown to enhance cognitive function, improve sleep quality, and reduce inflammation, all of which can contribute to improved mental well-being and reduced symptoms of depression.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eleutherococcus senticosus decoctions that help with depression.

• Eleutherosides: These saponin glycosides help alleviate depression by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing stress-induced cortisol levels and promoting a balanced mood.
• Iridoids: The iridoid glycosides present in Eleutherococcus senticosus exhibit antidepressant properties by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in mood regulation.
• Phenolic acids: The phenolic acids, including ferulic and sinapic acid, in Eleutherococcus senticosus decoctions have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to its antidepressant activity by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation associated with depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of siberian ginseng used to make decoctions for depression.

• Roots: Eleutherococcus senticosus roots are commonly used to make decoctions for depression due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly eleutherosides.
• Stems: The stems of Eleutherococcus senticosus are utilized for decoctions as they contain eleutherosides, which help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Leaves: Eleutherococcus senticosus leaves are used in decoctions due to their content of eleutherosides and other flavonoids, which contribute to their antidepressant properties.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest mature roots of eleutherococcus senticosus in late summer or early fall to ensure optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 24 hours to preserve their properties.
3. Chop 10-15 grams of dried eleutherococcus senticosus roots into fine pieces to enhance extraction.
4. Steep the chopped roots in 1 liter of boiling water for 30-40 minutes to create a strong decoction.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove all solid particles before consumption.

9. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm decoctions helps with depression because they contain high levels of antioxidants and flavonoids, which have been shown to have a positive impact on mental health.

The decoction's calming effects can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress, common companions to depression. Additionally, lemon balm has been found to increase GABA levels in the brain, promoting feelings of relaxation and reducing racing thoughts.

Overall, herbal lemon balm decoctions can provide a natural and effective way to alleviate depressive symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with depression.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to have a neuroprotective effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety-related symptoms associated with depression.
• Citral: As a terpene, citral has been found to have a sedative effect, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression such as anxiety and insomnia.
• Limonene: This terpene has been shown to have a mood-boosting effect, possibly due to its ability to modulate the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are often imbalanced in individuals with depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for depression.

• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have been shown to have antidepressant properties.
• Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers are known for their anxiolytic and antidepressant effects due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part dried melissa officinalis leaves and 2 parts water in a heat-resistant container.
2. Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 10 minutes to allow the plant to steep.
3. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove excess plant material.
4. Discard the solids and store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Use 1-2 teaspoons of the decoction in a tea infuser or directly in a cup with hot water.

10. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with depression because it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This calming effect can help alleviate symptoms of depression by soothing emotional distress and promoting a sense of calmness. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties may also contribute to its mood-boosting effects by reducing inflammation in the brain, which has been linked to depression.

Overall, chamomile decoctions offer a natural and gentle approach to managing depressive symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with depression.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as a GABA receptor modulator, which helps to reduce anxiety and stress, contributing to a decrease in depressive symptoms.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
• Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anxiolytic and sedative effects, which may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and insomnia often associated with depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for depression.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high content of apigenin, a flavonoid with a potential antidepressant effect.
• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids, which have been shown to have a positive effect on mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
• Seeds: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, including chamazulene and bisabolol, which have anti-inflammatory and calming properties that can help alleviate depression symptoms.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 2 to 3 tablespoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers.
2. Combine the dried flowers in a saucepan with 2 cups of boiling water.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow for infusion.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
5. Allow the decoction to cool before consumption in doses of 1 to 2 cups.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with depression is a blend of St. John's Wort, ashwagandha, and lavender.

St. John's Wort has been traditionally used to uplift mood and reduce anxiety. Ashwagandha is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body to cope with stress.

Lavender, with its calming effects, promotes relaxation and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Combining these herbs can create a synergistic effect, providing relief from depressive symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.