Anti-depressants have many side-effects- ranging from weight gain, or decreased sex-drive, to suicide- and should not be taken lightly.  So if you’re feeling a little down in the dumps and seeking a pick-me-up try one of these natural products first. But beware: even these herbs and supplements have medicinal properties and side-effects, so ask your doctor first.

St. John’s Wort

In folk medicine, it was originally said to ward off witches. Now that witches are more or less a thing of the past, more than twenty scientific studies have shown that St. John’s Wort can help ease mild depression by allowing certain brain chemicals to build up between nerve cells, just like some antidepressants do. This herb can cause sensitivity to sunlight, so try to stay out of the sun as much as possible while you’re taking it. The recommended dosage is 300 milligrams, three times a day.

SAM-e

Pronounced “sammy,” and formally known S-adenosylmethionine, this substance is a naturally occurring molecule found in almost every cell of the body. Low levels have been linked with depression, and dozens of studies have shown that taking a SAM-e supplement produces significant improvement after three weeks. SAM-e works by raising levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. In many European countries, the effectiveness of SAM-e against depression is so well accepted that it’s prescribed by doctors. The dosage:1600 milligrams a day. 

Amino Acid

Acetyl-L-carnitine is an amino acid which helps increase energy production in brain cells, protect nerve cell membranes, and improve both mood and memory. It’s chemically similar to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that acts in the muscles as well as the central nervous system. The suggested dosage is 1000 milligrams, three times a day.

Magnesium

The mineral chelated magnesium is very important for restoring and maintaining healthy nerve function. Magnesium is a key component in the production and function of serotonin. Supplements may help alleviate anxiety and depression.

Vitamin B

This vitamin helps convert the amino acid, tryptophan, to serotonin in the brain. Low levels have been linked with depression. For best results look for a brand with 50 micrograms of vitamin B12, 400 milligrams of folic acid, and 50 milligrams of the other B vitamins. Take one vitamin B-complex supplement each morning with food.