Depression is a common and debilitating mental illness that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 264 million people are affected by depression globally.

While medication and therapy are commonly used to treat depression, there are alternative therapies that are gaining popularity. One such therapy is golden root, which is a natural remedy for depression.

What is Golden Root?

Golden root, also known as Rhodiola rosea, is a medicinal herb that grows in cold regions like the Arctic and the mountains of Central Asia.

The herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions like anxiety, stress, fatigue, and depression. Golden root is also known to improve physical and cognitive performance.

How Does Golden Root Work?

Golden root works through its active compounds called rosavins and salidroside. These compounds help the body adapt to stress and increase its resistance to stressors.

Stress is one of the major causes of depression, and golden root helps the body cope with stress, thereby reducing the risk of depression. Salidroside, in particular, has been found to have antidepressant effects by increasing the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which are known to improve mood.

Benefits of Golden Root for Depression

Golden root has been found to have several benefits for depression. Here are some of the benefits:.

Reduces Symptoms of Depression

Golden root has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression like sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest.

In a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, golden root was found to significantly reduce depression symptoms in people with mild to moderate depression.

Improves Mood

Golden root improves mood by increasing the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, while dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in the reward system of the brain.

By increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, golden root helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Golden root has adaptogenic properties, which means it helps the body cope with stress and reduce anxiety. In a study published in Phytomedicine, golden root was found to significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety in people with mild to moderate anxiety.

Improves Sleep

Golden root has been found to improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia, which is a common symptom of depression.

In a study published in the Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, golden root was found to improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.

How to Take Golden Root for Depression

Golden root is available in various forms like capsules, tablets, tinctures, and teas. The recommended dosage of golden root for depression is 200-600 mg per day.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking golden root to ensure it is safe and does not interact with any medications you are taking.

Precautions

While golden root is generally safe, there are some precautions to keep in mind. Here are some precautions:.

Side Effects

Golden root may cause side effects like dizziness, dry mouth, and gastrointestinal upset. It is important to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it to avoid these side effects.

Interactions with Medications

Golden root may interact with medications like antidepressants, blood thinners, and diabetes medications. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking golden root if you are taking any medications.

Contraindications

Golden root is contraindicated in people with bipolar disorder, as it may worsen their symptoms. It is also contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women, as its safety has not been established in these populations.

Conclusion

Golden root is a natural remedy for depression that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Its active compounds, rosavins and salidroside, help the body adapt to stress and improve mood.

Golden root has several benefits for depression like reducing symptoms, improving mood, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving sleep. While golden root is generally safe, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking it.