10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Depression

Herbal tinctures for depression are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that have been used for centuries to naturally alleviate symptoms of depression.

These tinctures work by promoting a sense of calm and well-being, reducing anxiety and stress, and improving mood stability. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with depression include St. John's Wort, Ashwagandha, and SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine). By taking these tinctures, individuals can experience improved sleep quality, increased energy levels, and a reduction in symptoms such as feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

This natural approach to managing depression has been shown to improve overall mental health and well-being, allowing individuals to live more fulfilling lives.

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

1. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with depression because it contains hyperforin, a unique compound that has been shown to interact with neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine.

This interaction can help alleviate symptoms of depression by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, which are often imbalanced in people with depression.

Additionally, St John's Wort has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress, which are common companions to depression.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: This phenolic compound has shown to act as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, which can help increase serotonin levels in the brain, thereby alleviating symptoms of depression.
• N-feruloyltyramine: This alkaloid has demonstrated antidepressant activity by increasing the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, and by inhibiting the reuptake of these neurotransmitters.
• Hypericin: This naphthodianthrone compound has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to its antidepressant effects by protecting neurons from oxidative stress and promoting neuronal health.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves contain hypericin and hyperforin, which are the primary active compounds responsible for the antidepressant effects of the plant.
• Stems: The stems also contain hypericin and hyperforin, making them a suitable source for extracting these compounds for tincture production.
• Flowers: The flowers are a rich source of flavonoids, including quercetin and rutin, which contribute to their antidepressant and mood-enhancing properties.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest hypericum perforatum leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated for fresh material.
2. Chop the fresh plant material into small pieces weighing approximately one part plant material to two parts solvent.
3. Steep the chopped plant material in a clean glass jar with a solvent such as 70 ethanol by volume for 2-4 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter to separate the plant material from the solvent.
5. Store the resulting tincture in dark glass bottles and keep it out of direct sunlight in a cool place for up to 2 years.

2. Crocus sativus

Saffron tinctures helps with depression because it has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and cognitive function.

The active compound, crocin, is believed to increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression such as low mood and lethargy. Additionally, saffron's antioxidant properties may help reduce inflammation in the brain, which has been linked to depression.

By promoting a sense of calm and relaxation, saffron tinctures may also help individuals cope with stress and anxiety, further reducing symptoms of depression.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crocus sativus tinctures that help with depression.

• Crocetin: Crocetin helps with depression by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can contribute to the development of depression, and promoting the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
• Bisdemethoxy crocin: BDMC helps with depression by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which are known to contribute to the development of depression.
• Crocin: Crocin helps with depression by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase (MAO) enzymes, which break down neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, and promoting their release, which can help alleviate depressive symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of saffron used to make tinctures for depression.

• Roots: The roots of Crocus sativus contain safranal, a compound that has been shown to have antidepressant properties.
• Flowers: The flowers of Crocus sativus contain crocin, a carotenoid pigment that has been found to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
• Stems: The stems of Crocus sativus may also contain compounds that contribute to its antidepressant properties, although specific information on this part is limited.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-40 fresh crocus sativus stigmas in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean the stigmas gently with a soft brush to remove any debris or impurities immediately.
3. Combine the cleaned stigmas with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

3. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with depression because they contain Adiantum viride, a plant-based compound that has been shown to have a significant impact on mood regulation.

The tincture's ability to increase the body's production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine helps to alleviate symptoms of depression, including feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue.

Additionally, maidenhair tree tinctures have been found to reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation and calmness, further contributing to its antidepressant effects.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Bilobalide: It may help with depression by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to the development of depression.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid may help with depression by modulating neurotransmitter activity, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation.
• Isorhapontigenin: It may help with depression by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to depression.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: They are the primary source of Ginkgo's active compounds, including flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have antidepressant effects.
• Barks: The Ginkgo biloba bark contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which are thought to contribute to its potential antidepressant properties.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds have been used in traditional medicine, and their extracts may have a calming effect, which could help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 4 parts ginkgo biloba leaves and 1 part root in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine the ginkgo biloba mixture with 80 proof vodka in a 1:3 ratio by volume.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 2-6 months before use.

4. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop tinctures helps with depression because they contain a unique combination of compounds that work together to promote mental well-being.

The herb's flavonoids and alkaloids have been shown to enhance serotonin levels in the brain, which is often imbalanced in individuals struggling with depression. Additionally, maypop has a natural sedative effect, allowing for improved sleep quality and reducing symptoms of anxiety, common comorbidities with depression.

As a result, maypop tinctures can provide a sense of calm and relaxation, helping to alleviate feelings of sadness and hopelessness often associated with depression.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Harmane: This alkaloid has been found to have a sedative effect, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of depression.
• Isovitexin: This flavonoid has been shown to have a neuroprotective effect, potentially helping to protect against neurodegeneration and improving mood regulation, contributing to its antidepressant properties.
• Linarin: This iridoid glycoside has been found to have a sedative effect and is believed to be responsible for Passiflora's anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, helping to reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids, which are believed to contribute to their antidepressant properties.
• Stems: Utilized for their content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Roots: Employed for their rich source of alkaloids, which are thought to be responsible for the plant's anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50 grams of fresh passiflora incarnata leaves and flowers on a dry sunny morning.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces and mix with 250 milliliters of vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar every day.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another glass container discarding the solids and set it aside.
5. Transfer the liquid tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender tinctures helps with depression because of its ability to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.

The calming properties of lavender interact with the brain's chemistry to increase the production of serotonin and GABA, neurotransmitters that regulate emotions and calmness. By balancing these chemicals, English lavender tincture can help alleviate symptoms of depression such as sadness, irritability, and sleep disturbances.

Additionally, its sweet, floral aroma has a profound impact on emotional well-being, fostering feelings of serenity and tranquility.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: This terpene helps with depression by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving mood through its sedative and anxiolytic properties.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene contributes to the antidepressant effects of Lavandula angustifolia by exerting a calming influence on the nervous system, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid helps with depression by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, contributing to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.

Plant's Parts

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

• Flowers: They contain high amounts of lavender oil, which has a calming effect and helps reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.
• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and terpenes, leaves provide additional therapeutic benefits that complement the effects of the flowers.
• Stems: Stems contribute to the overall potency of the tincture, as they contain some of the same beneficial compounds as the flowers and leaves.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh or dried lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom time for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer on paper bags or mesh screens for 1 week.
3. Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it vigorously for 2 weeks every day.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

6. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with depression because it has a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

The natural sedative properties of valerian root help to quiet the mind, allowing individuals to fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. Improved sleep quality is crucial in managing depression, as it allows the body to repair and recharge.

By promoting relaxation and improving sleep, valerian tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of depression, providing a sense of calm and reducing feelings of overwhelm.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene acts as a GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptor agonist, which helps to regulate sleep patterns, calm the nervous system, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Valerenol: This sesquiterpene has a sedative effect, which helps to reduce anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation and a sense of calm, making it easier to manage symptoms of depression.
• Isovaleric acid: This organic compound has a sedative effect and acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps to reduce anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation and a sense of calm, ultimately helping to manage symptoms of depression.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: They contain valerenic acid, which has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative effects, making them a primary source for depression relief.
• Leaves: Although less commonly used than roots, leaves are also known to contain valerenic acid and have been used in herbal remedies to alleviate anxiety and depression.
• Seeds: Similar to roots and leaves, seeds of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid, which is responsible for their sedative and anxiolytic properties, used to treat depression.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in the spring or fall to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
2. Clean and dry the roots by spreading them out in a single layer to speed drying time.
3. Use a glass jar and 70 ethanol to make a 1:3 ratio tincture by steeping the roots for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the herbal solids completely.
5. Bottle the tincture in dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

7. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha tinctures helps with depression because it has a unique ability to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.

The herb's adaptogenic properties enable it to balance cortisol levels, which are often imbalanced in individuals struggling with depression. Additionally, ashwagandha stimulates the production of neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, which regulate mood and emotional responses.

As a result, ashwagandha tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of depression, promoting a sense of calm, clarity, and improved mental well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera tinctures that help with depression.

• Withanolides: Withanolides, a class of steroidal alkaloids found in Withania somnifera, have been shown to have antidepressant properties by modulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, thereby alleviating symptoms of depression.
• Withaferin a: Withaferin A, a specific withanolide, has been found to exhibit anti-depressive effects by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which are often associated with depression.
• Withanoside iv: Withanoside IV, a withanolide glycoside, has been demonstrated to possess anti-depressive properties by enhancing the expression of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF, which is crucial for the growth and survival of neurons, ultimately contributing to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make tinctures for depression.

• Roots: They are the most commonly used part of Withania somnifera to make tinctures for depression due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
• Leaves: The leaves of Withania somnifera contain a significant amount of withanolides, which are responsible for the plant's therapeutic effects on depression.
• Seeds: Withania somnifera seeds are also used to make tinctures for depression, as they contain a high amount of withanolides and other active compounds.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 pound of withania somnifera roots with a moisture content of 10 to 12 percent.
2. Clean the roots with distilled water and let them dry for 2 to 3 weeks.
3. Use a 35% ethanol solvent to macerate 1:5 of the dried roots for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 days of pressing.
5. Filter the tincture through a 0.2-micron filter and store it in a dark glass bottle.

8. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with depression because it contains compounds like rosmarinic acid, which has a calming effect on the nervous system.

This can help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress that often accompany depression. Additionally, lemon balm's ability to promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension can also contribute to improved mood and reduced feelings of sadness.

By promoting a sense of calm and well-being, herbal lemon balm tinctures may provide a natural way to manage depressive symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to a decrease in symptoms of depression by promoting a healthy brain environment.
• Volatile oils: Terpenes that have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Melissic acid: A phenolic acid that has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant properties by interacting with neurotransmitters and influencing the brain's stress response.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Melissa officinalis due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Flowers: The flowers are also used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and essential oils, which have been found to have a positive effect on mood and anxiety.
• Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis are sometimes used, although less frequently than leaves and flowers, due to their secondary compounds that may contribute to the plant's overall therapeutic effects.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part of melissa officinalis flowers and leaves and 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine the melissa officinalis mixture with vodka in the jar and seal it tightly to prevent air from entering.
3. Place the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the mixture to steep and infuse.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass container to remove the solids.
5. Label the tincture and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years or use it immediately.

9. Bacopa monnieri

Brahmi tinctures helps with depression because of its ability to promote cognitive function, memory, and mood enhancement.

The herb's antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which are often associated with depressive symptoms. Additionally, Brahmi has been shown to increase GABA levels, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep, anxiety, and relaxation.

By promoting a sense of calm and reducing feelings of anxiety and stress, Brahmi tinctures can help alleviate depressive symptoms and improve overall mental well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri tinctures that help with depression.

• Bacosides: Bacosides are a group of saponins that have been shown to have antidepressant and anxiolytic effects by modulating the neurotransmitter serotonin and reducing stress-induced anxiety.
• Bacopasides: Bacopasides are a type of triterpenoid saponins that have been found to have a positive impact on depression by enhancing the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a key role in neuronal growth and survival.
• Monnierin: Monnierin is an alkaloid that has been shown to have a positive effect on depression by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase (MAO), an enzyme responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, which are often imbalanced in individuals with depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make tinctures for depression.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of active compounds like bacosides, which have neuroprotective and antidepressant properties.
• Roots: They contain bacosides and other bioactive compounds that have been found to improve cognitive function and reduce symptoms of depression.
• Stems: They are also used, although less frequently, due to their similar composition to leaves, including bacosides, which contribute to their antidepressant and neuroprotective effects.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250g of fresh bacopa monnieri leaves and stems from a pesticide-free area.
2. Dry the harvested material in a low-temperature dehydrator at 30 degrees celsius for 6 hours.
3. Grind 100g of the dried material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Steep 250ml of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar with 50g of the powder for 2 weeks.
5. Strain and bottle the tincture after 14 days using a coffee filter to remove the solids.

10. Piper methysticum

Kava tinctures helps with depression because of its unique ability to calm the mind and promote relaxation.

The active compounds in kava, such as kavalactones, work on the brain's neurotransmitters to increase feelings of happiness and reduce anxiety. By reducing stress and promoting a sense of tranquility, kava tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood.

Additionally, kava has been shown to enhance GABA receptors, which helps regulate emotions and promotes a deeper state of relaxation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum tinctures that help with depression.

• Kavalactones: These lactones, specifically kavain, dihydrokavain, and yangonin, have been shown to have a positive effect on mood by inhibiting the activity of certain neurotransmitters that contribute to depression.
• Flavokavains: Flavokavain A and B, a type of flavonoid kavalactone, have been found to have anxiolytic and antidepressant properties by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
• Kaempferol: This flavonoid is known to have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, which may contribute to its antidepressant properties by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make tinctures for depression.

• Roots: They are the primary source of the active compounds responsible for the plant's medicinal properties, including its anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
• Leaves: They contain a significant amount of kavalactones, which are known to have a positive impact on mental health and mood regulation.
• Rhyzomes: They are a rich source of kavalactones and have been traditionally used to treat anxiety, stress, and depression.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh or dried plant material with leaves and stems.
2. Chop the material into small pieces and combine with 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a dark cupboard or cool place with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid in a cool place indefinitely.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with depression is often a blend of adaptogenic and mood-enhancing herbs.

Ashwagandha and rhodiola rosea, both adaptogens, can help reduce stress and anxiety. St. John's Wort and passionflower can aid in regulating mood and promoting relaxation.

Additionally, adding a small amount of yarrow and skullcap tinctures can help balance emotions and calm the mind. A suggested ratio is 2 parts ashwagandha and rhodiola to 1 part each of St. John's Wort, passionflower, yarrow, and skullcap.

Consult a healthcare professional before using herbal tinctures.