The best natural remedies to combat sadness

Occasional episodes of stress are difficult to avoid, and chronic stress can seriously affect both physical and emotional health. In fact, it can increase the risk of conditions such as depression and heart disease, according to the portal HealthLine.

Specifically, depression is the fact of feeling melancholic, sad, unhappy, collapsed or despondent. Most people feel this way from time to time for short periods.

In addition, it is advisable to exercise, eat a balanced diet, receive sunlight and have contact with nature. Although, experts from the Mayo Clinic assure that “Natural remedies are not a replacement for the diagnosis and medical treatment of depression.”

However, when it comes to sadness, there are foods that not only make the body feel better when it is going through a difficult time, emotionally, but also help improve emotions and, therefore, make you feel more cheerful and energy, according to the portal AARP Spain.

Oatmeal has a regulatory effect on the nervous system, so its consumption is capable of raising the mood. Photo: Getty Images – Foto: Getty Images

Natural remedies to combat depression

Here are some natural remedies shared by the magazine Prensa Libre, in its health and wellness section, to combat sadness and depression:

Citrus fruits and kiwi

• Citrus fruits, such as orange and lemon, contain vitamin C that prevents the feeling of sadness and fatigue.

Beer yeast

• It is a supplement that is commonly seen in powder form, which can be mixed with any drink or food to enrich it and increase the vitamins it contains.
• Although, brewer’s yeast helps calm nervous system disorders naturally.
• In addition, it is a powerful beauty remedy for hair, nails and skin.

Basil

• In essential oil it can be used during the bath, from 5 to 10 drops. In aromatherapy it is used together with other oils, such as bergamot and hyssop for relaxing and stimulating massages.
• Generally, it is used to cure melancholy, nervous exhaustion, fatigue and tiredness.

Avena

• Oatmeal has a regulatory effect on the nervous system, so its consumption is capable of raising the mood.
• In addition, it calms anxiety and nervousness. It contains high levels of fiber that regulate intestinal transit and reduce blood sugar levels.

Saffron

• Several studies have shown that saffron extract lowers cortisol levels, inhibits the reuptake of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. In addition, it has an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action.

Essential oils

Essential oils to relax the mind

Lavender

• According to a publication of Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing, Lavender has benefits to combat depression and insomnia.
• It also has an analgesic effect, making it a great option to fight inflammation, according to the magazine Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences.
• The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine It also claims that topical application of this oil lessens the discomfort of menstrual cramps.

Arnica

• In The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology It is mentioned that it has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce general pain.

Balm

• It has digestive, antispasmodic, analgesic, tonic, carminative, diuretic and sedative properties; according to the magazine Nutrients.
• It is also known as lemon balm, with a pungent aroma and a mint/orange smell.
• The Indian Journal of Pharmacology indicates that it helps to restore heart rhythm.
• It calms the nerves and helps reduce anxiety and stress. Mixing this plant with chamomile helps to relax the body and mind.
• The Journal of Medicinal Food It maintains that thanks to its antispasmodic properties it relieves discomfort in the body.
• In addition, it is good for falling asleep, thanks to its sedative action.