Natural Remedies For The Winter Blues

Thanks to writer Mike Burnside for this article on natural cures for winter depression.

Tips on How to Beat the Winter Blues Naturally

During the cold and blistery season, many people suffer from what is commonly called the winter blues.  Medical experts continue to learn more about the body’s biological rhythms and how they play a role in our health, both physically and mentally.  When the biological rhythm gets out of synch, many people begin to suffer from the winter blues.  The winter blues or the medical term, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) typically affects individuals with depression, oversleeping, overeating, and a craving for carbohydrates.  All of which affects these individuals during the winter.  These same people find themselves elated, active and energetic in the summertime.

How Light Helps Cure the Winter Blues

There are many variables that affect an individual who is suffering from the winter blues or SAD.  One of the more logical explanations is the lack of exposure to the full-spectrum of natural light.  Light therapy offers anyone suffering from the winter blues an antidepressant effect by restoring proper melatonin synthesis to the body.  Many individuals who are suffering with SAD should try replacing all of the light bulbs where you spend the most time with full-spectrum lighting.

Melatonin Sometimes Helps Cure the Winter Blues

Individuals suffering from SAD have a disruption of melatonin being created in their body.  Therefore, it might make sense to add melatonin as a supplement to your daily intake.  Unfortunately, many medical experts have found that melatonin alone as a supplement has mixed results.  However, it does not harm the body to take the melatonin and if it is supplemented with B12, it could help reset the biological rhythm in your body.

Try Vitamin D to Help Cure the Winter Blues

Many medical experts have theorized that low levels of vitamin D could cause the symptoms of SAD.  Brain chemistry and neurotransmitter action need the proper dose of vitamin D to work properly.  Most health experts recommend increased daily doses of vitamin D during the winter months for optimal brain health.

Using St. John’s Wort to Help Cure the Winter Blues

A common herb supplement that many SAD suffers use is St. John’s wort.  It is has been found to be effective in reducing depression in many cases.  Using St. John’s wort along with full-spectrum light therapy can reduce depression in many patients who were diagnosed with SAD.  A patient should consult their physician before starting St. John’s wort.  The herb does have some drug interactions with other medications.  Those on birth control are recommended not to take St. John’s wort.