What are Mood Stabilizers?
Calming Tea: The 5 Most Effective T... Calming Tea: The 5 Most Effective Teas for Anxiety and Stress
Originally coined by the FDA, “mood stabilizer” was a term that referenced drugs prescribed specifically for the purposes of treating psychiatric illnesses. Since then, the phrase has expanded to include treatments and supplements that are available without a prescription. This includes natural mood stabilizers.
It is estimated that over 154 billion people worldwide suffer from a debilitating mood disorder of some sort and it is believed that only thirty to forty percent have access to treatment and intervention. When neurotransmitters are so imbalanced that they interfere with an individual’s ability to function and carry out their responsibilities in a healthy way, physicians will often look into utilizing mood stabilizers for the purposes of finding a healthier balance in the individual’s brain chemistry. The primary neurotransmitters referred to when mood imbalance is discussed are dopamine, epinephrine and serotonin.
| Our favorite NaturalMoodStabilizer on the market today! |
How do Mood Stabilizers Work?
The purpose of mood stabilizers is to balance three chemicals: dopamine, epinephrine and serotonin. These chemicals influence a person’s behavior. If there is a chemical imbalance, the brain will provide a signal to change the person’s mood.
Dopamine is the neurotransmitter most commonly associated with the ability to focus and induces feelings of motivation to do anything from a range of accomplishing major tasks to ordinary life functions.
Epinephrine is also associated with motivation and energy. Individuals with low levels of epinephrine have been shown to lack the desire to do any activities (even the ones they typically enjoy), and often it is associated with depression (both situational and clinical). Conversely, individuals with high levels of epinephrine have shown agitation and anxiety. High levels of epinephrine paired with lower serotonin levels are often associated with manic states.
Serotonin is associated with a sense of well being and an overall positive outlook. Candidates for mood disorders often have low levels of serotonin.
A simple way to look at it:
Low Serotonin Levels: Life sucks, overwhelmed feeling, insomnia, poor cognition.
Good Serotonin Levels: Life is good, everything feels in order.
Low Epinephrine Levels: Depressing thoughts, aggravated.
Good Epinephrine Levels: Calmness, feeling well.
Low Serotonin and High Epinephrine Levels: Manic thoughts, bipolar symptoms.
Low Serotonin and Low Epinephrine Levels: Depressive thoughts, life isn’t good.
| Our favorite NaturalMoodStabilizer on the market today! |
Why Natural Mood Stabilizers?
In the Eastern regions of the world, natural mood stabilizers have been used to treat such chemical imbalances. However, patients and physicians seeking to find alternatives for mood disorders in the western world have begun to branch out into more natural solutions. Many do this as a way to curtail the major undesirable side effects of conventional prescription mood stabilizers. Some of the side effects associated with prescription drugs that patients and doctors seek to avoid run the gamut from depressive symptoms to psychosis or suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
List of Natural MoodStabilizers
As with their prescription counterparts, the ingredients in natural mood stabilizers come in a host of varieties for different patients with different symptoms. Since not all treatments are the same, below are the various treatments for mood disorders that have either been used historically or have been shown to have positive effects during clinical trials in alphabetical order:
5-Hydroxytryptophan (also known as 5-HTP)
It can be utilized for the purposes of regulating mood balance by setting the brain up to take in higher levels of serotonin. A list of our favorite 5-HTP.
Arctic Root
It can be taking during stressful periods. Will treat mild anxiety while providing support to the body at this time.A list of our favorite Arctic Root.
Ashwagandha
Known to achieve balance for the amount of epinephrine produced by the brain. This herb has been shown to stabilize the moods of those suffering from both depression and anxiety. You can check our review of Ashwagandha here.
Catuaba
With the exception of a 2005 study showing the use of catuaba as a natural treatment for depression, little is known about its mood stabilizing properties. However, practitioners and potential patients have shown interest in further research regarding this potential antidepressant. A list of our favorite Catuaba.
Eleuthero
Used as a treatment for those suffering from situation and work-related stress and anxiety. It is said to enhance overall energy and mood in a positive way.Know more about Eleuthero Root here.
Ginkgo
Treats stress and anxiety. Has been shown to be particularly effective in conjunction with other herbs shown to enhance cognitive functioning for those suffering from situational anxiety. A list of our favorite Ginkgo.
Panax Ginseng
In addition to its several properties for treating non-anxiety related issues, ginseng has been made available in several natural mood stabilizers as it has been shown to improve mood disorders. It is not recommended for those who currently or have a history of suffering from mania as ginseng can exacerbate this. Know more about the benefits of Panax Ginseng here.
Kava Kava
It has long standing use as a treatment among natives in the South Pacific, kava kava has been shown to have soothing effects on those suffering from anxiety, as well as lessen the side effects associated with withdrawal from addictive substances. A list of our favorite Kava Kava.
Lavender
Historically used in oils, soaps and various other cosmetics for its calming scent. Lavender is a favorite among practitioners of aromatherapy for treating anxiety and mild stress. A list of our favorite Lavender.
Maca Root
It’s still untested by any research staff but, Maca Root has been used as a mood stabilizer. Advocates of maca root claim that it can be used to enhance one’s mood. However, since the research is limited, it is unknown how or if this is the case. A list of our favorite Maca Root.
Mucuna Pruriens
It has been shown in clinical and real-world trials to treat depression by acting as dopamine for patients with low levels of the neurotransmitter. Know more about Mucuna Pruriens, more popularly known as cowhage, here.
Mulberry Bark
It can be steeped in a tea to serve as a treatment for mild anxiety. A list of our favorite Mulberry Bark.
Passion Flower
Serves to treat less severe panic attacks and mild anxiety without the side effects of prescription drugs diagnosed for similar purposes. A list of our favorite Passion Flower.
Rhodiola Rosea (known colloquially as Rhodiala)
In recent years, this adaptogen has risen in popularity as a way to avert stress that can eventually develop into serial anxiety. Historically used to treat some of the symptoms of menopause, caution must be taken when using it to treat any level of depression. As it has been described as a “mild stimulant”, and it is not recommended for those who are currently or have a history of suffering from mania as Rhodiala can exacerbate this. Physicians agree that more testing is needed in regards to Rhodiala before any definitive statement can be made about its mood stabilizing properties. A list of our favorite Rhodiola Rosea.
Schizandra
It was long used by natives of China (where it is referred to as wu wei zi). Schizandra has been effective in treating stress and anxiety by limiting cortisol production, thus decreasing the amount of serotonin in the body. It is derived from a berry found in China and the surrounding vicinity. It can be consumed on its own. Some describe the taste as bitter, and some find it sweet.
Read Also: 6 Benefits of Schizandra
Shilajit
It can be used to treat those with severe depression. It is a substance found in both the Himalayas and in the Southern Russian mountains. The substance described as “tar-like” is created when plants growing in the mountains decompose and leave their residue behind. Clinical testing of Shilajit has garnered results showing that it has been effective in increasing serotonin levels while effectively balancing levels of dopamine. Know more about the 9 Benefits of Shilajit.
St. John’s Wort and S-Adenosylmethione
They have had numerous clinical trials showing that they can be used to establish a healthier balance of neurotransmitters as they are known as “reuptake inhibitors”. A list of our favorite St. John’s Wort.
Tibulus
This is often a favorite among athletes. Tibulus has been used for its overall positive effect on the mood. A list of our favorite Tibulus.
Vitamins
They have proven to be necessary for the healthy functioning of neurons, cognitive functioning as well as the physical health of patients, physicians often like to ensure that they are getting the appropriate amounts of vitamins. Many patients with mood disorders have exhibited a deficiency in vitamin D. Poor memory and low cognitive functioning have been associated with a lack of both vitamin B12 and vitamin D. Numerous studies and clinical trials have proven the connection between mood disorders and improper nutritional intake. A list of our favorite Multi-Vitamins.
Winter Cherry
It’s known to treat mental exhaustion and fatigue, as well as tension brought on by nerves and mild anxiety. A list of our favorite Winter Cherry.
Reishi Mushroom
A fungus that is popular in TCM that has only recently taken hold in western culture. It is most known for it’s positive effects on cancer but also fits the classification as a natural mood stabilizer as it’s good for stress, anxiety and depression. This is one of the best all around supplements, let alone for mood stabilization. Know more about Reishi Mushroom here.
Read Also: Does Reishi Mushroom Coffee work?
Xiao Yao Wan
Generally referred to as the “Free and Easy Wanderer” and used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is a combination of multiple herbs, usually containing some form of the following: Bupleurum, Peppermint, Angelica, Ginger, Licorice, Dong Quai, and Poria. There is minor evidence it can be beneficial for bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and anger. Know more about Xiao Yao Wan here.
Yohimbine
It has been shown to effectively treat mild stress by increasing adrenaline. This has the effect of kick starting the metabolism of the patient, as well as increasing the rate of their heart. A list of our favorite Yohimbine.
PEMF Therapy
It’s not a supplement but it’s worth noting. PEMF orPulsed Electromagnetic Field is whenlow-level electromagnetic radiation is pulsed through the body. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study Harvard conducted showed a 10% improvement in depression when using PEMF therapy compared to the placebo group. PEMF Therapy has shown potential to be a natural treatment option for both anxiety and depression.
Are Natural Mood Stabilizers Safe?
As with all treatments for mood disorders, it is recommended that patients speak with their doctors before altering their treatment regimen. Natural does not always mean safe and not all treatments are suited for all patients. Even two individuals suffering from the same mood disorder may not react the same way to any given mood stabilizer – natural or not. However, in comparison to prescription drugs, most natural mood stabilizers are safe. The majority of supplements listed in this article are safe for consumption, but it’s important to do your own research about which one is best for you.
Best Natural Mood Stabilizers
As previously mentioned, there is not one natural mood stabilizer that stands above the rest. All of us have different compositions, so what works for one person might not work for the other. However; my personal favorites are Shilajit, Ashwagandha, and Ginseng. All of them are well tolerated and several studies have been conducted on them as far as herbal supplements go.
Since natural mood stabilizers are available in a diverse array of treatment options, each one having a unique effect on the individual taking them, there is no one way to consume them that would be considered more effective. Many enjoy the aromatic treatments such as ginseng and lavender as an oil in aromatherapy regimens while other natural mood stabilizers can be taken via methods of teas, tonics, pills and powders. When seeking out information regarding the best method of consumption for any single treatment, it is recommended that one seek the advice of both an herbalist and a registered physician.
As is the case with their prescription counterparts, it is recommended that individuals interested in pursuing the benefits of natural mood stabilizers should do so in conjunction with a lifestyle conducive to healthy physical, mental, and emotional health. Such factors include exercise, proper sleeping habits, regular consumption of healthy meals high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin b-12, while limiting the intake of unhealthy carbohydrates.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3660126
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786903/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2248201/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4424923/
FAQs
What is the best natural mood stabilizer for anger? ›
Adaptogens, exercise, nutrition, meditation or mindfulness, omega-3 fatty acid, and vitamin D are some examples of natural mood stabilizers.
What can you take that's natural for anxiety and depression? ›- St. John's wort. ...
- SAMe. This dietary supplement is a synthetic form of a chemical that occurs naturally in the body. ...
- Omega-3 fatty acids. ...
- Saffron. ...
- 5-HTP. ...
- DHEA.
Combine sunshine, exercise, and social connections. Go for a 30-minute walk each day with a pet or a supportive relative or friend. Try yoga, meditation, or another relaxation technique to help you de-stress and improve your mood. Time away in nature, like watch- ing a sunset, may help too.
What is the safest mood stabilizer? ›The safest and most efficacious mood stabilizer combinations appear to be the mixtures of anticonvulsants and lithium, particularly valproate plus lithium.
What can I take for irritability and anger? ›Antidepressants for anger
SSRIs are commonly prescribed to treat conditions like depression and anxiety, but they've also been used to treat symptoms of anger or irritability. SSRIs that have been shown to help with anger include citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), among others.
Vitamin B9 (Folate or Folic Acid)
It may also be one of the vitamins for mood swings because, together with vitamin B6 and vitamin B12, folic acid may help break down homocysteine, an amino acid.
Vitamin B-3 and Vitamin B-9 can help people with depression because B vitamins help the brain manage moods. Vitamin D, melatonin and St. John's Wort are recommended for seasonal depression. Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium and vitamin C may also help with depression.
How do you treat severe anxiety naturally? ›- Stay active. ...
- Steer clear of alcohol. ...
- Consider quitting smoking cigarettes. ...
- Limit caffeine intake. ...
- Prioritize getting a good night's rest. ...
- Meditate and practice mindfulness. ...
- Eat a balanced diet. ...
- Practice deep breathing.
- Talking therapies. Cognitive behavioural therapy. ...
- Exercise. Research suggests that regular exercise may be a more effective treatment for mild depression than antidepressants. ...
- Self-help groups. Talking through your feelings can be helpful. ...
- Lithium. ...
- Electric shock treatment.
One: Nature provides a lot of herbal remedies for irritation, says Ayurvedic Cure, chamomile, peppermint, hops, St. John's Wort, and lavender all can help us handle stress more calmly. Valerian root, says Ayurvedic Cure, has sedative qualities, so it not only calms but may help you sleep.
What is a good natural mood booster? ›
Try walking, playing a team sport or pumping iron at the gym. Diet also plays an important role in maintaining emotional health. Be sure to eat a diet rich in whole grains, lean meats, vegetables, fruits, beans and nuts. Interacting with others can also help boost a person's mood.
What vitamins help mood stability? ›Vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions. Low levels of B-12 and other B vitamins such as vitamin B-6 and folate may be linked to depression.
Is there an over the counter mood stabilizer? ›Can I get over-the-counter mood stabilizers? Some remedies like St. John's wort can be found in health food stores or apothecaries. These are readily available over the counter and include such substances as omega-3 fatty acids, NAC, and valerian root.
What is the number one mood stabilizer? ›The most widely used mood stabilizing drug is lithium. The clinical effects of lithium were discovered in the 1940s, and it has since become a widely used medication. The clinical properties of other mood stabilizers (carbamazepine, valproic acid) were discovered in the 1970s and 1980s.
What are the best mood stabilizers for anxiety? ›Some of the most commonly used include: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram oxalate (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine HRI (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft).
What medication helps with extreme irritability? ›Antidepressant SNRIs help relieve depression symptoms, such as irritability and sadness, but some are also used for anxiety disorders and nerve pain.
What medication helps with agitation and irritability? ›Haloperidol and lorazepam are the most widely used agents for acute agitation, are effective in a wide diagnostic arena and can be used in medically compromised patients. Haloperidol can cause significant extrapyramidal symptoms, and has rarely been associated with cardiac arrhythmia and sudden death.
What is the hormone that controls anger? ›When a person is angry, the body releases stress hormones, such as adrenaline, noradrenaline, and cortisol.
How can I release my anger naturally? ›When your temper flares, put relaxation skills to work. Practice deep-breathing exercises, imagine a relaxing scene, or repeat a calming word or phrase, such as "Take it easy." You might also listen to music, write in a journal or do a few yoga poses — whatever it takes to encourage relaxation.
What hormone affects anger? ›Testosterone activates the subcortical areas of the brain to produce aggression, while cortisol and serotonin act antagonistically with testosterone to reduce its effects.
Is there an all natural antidepressant? ›
Natural antidepressants include SAM-e, St John's Wort, and omega-3-fatty acids, among others. If a person thinks they have symptoms of depression, they should speak to a doctor before trying any natural antidepressants.
What herb is a natural antidepressant? ›Based on available data, black cohosh, chamomile, chasteberry, lavender, passionflower, and saffron appear useful in mitigating anxiety or depression with favorable risk-benefit profiles compared to standard treatments. These may benefit cancer patients by minimizing medication load and accompanying side effects.
How can I increase serotonin and dopamine naturally? ›- Time to get moving. Exercise is one of the best ways to increase both dopamine and serotonin. ...
- Increase your protein intake. Diet plays a critical role in weight management and overall health. ...
- Step up your sleep. People are spending less time sleeping. ...
- Try meditation.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders. Generally a short-term treatment, CBT focuses on teaching you specific skills to improve your symptoms and gradually return to the activities you've avoided because of anxiety.
What vitamins help with anxiety and panic attacks? ›Vitamin B Complex
The eight B vitamins, particularly B6, B9 (folic acid) and B12, are essential for the proper function of the nervous system and can help to calm the nerves and reduce mental stress and fatigue. For these reasons, they are often referred to as anti-stress nutrients.
- Exercising.
- Eating healthy foods.
- Learning time management techniques.
- Setting realistic goals.
- Getting more sleep.
- Making time for leisure activities.
- Building stress reduction skills.
- Learning and practicing mindfulness (learning to control attention)
- Diet.
- Exercise.
- Bright light.
- Supplements.
- Massage.
- Mood induction.
- Manage stress.
- Sleep deprivation.
While antidepressant medications are only available by prescription, there are some over-the-counter (OTC) antidepression herbs and supplements you can try. These have mild antidepressant qualities and may help relieve symptoms that are not severe.
What food is natural antidepressants? ›The researchers narrowed down the top 10 raw fruits and vegetables they found to be associated with better mental health and fewer symptoms of depression. These include carrots, dark leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, cucumber, apples, bananas, grapefruit, other citrus fruits, fresh berries, and kiwifruit.
What lack of vitamin causes irritability? ›Vitamin B12 is a key component in the formation of red blood cells. Its deficiency could lead to an oxygen-transport problem in the blood known as pernicious anemia. This disorder may cause issues like mood swings, paranoia, irritability, confusion, dementia, and hallucinations (or mania).
What is a natural medication for anxiety and anger? ›
Ginseng, chamomile, passionflower, herbal tea, lavender, saffron, kava, rose, cardamom, Chinese date, and some chief formula like yokukansan, Dan-zhi-xiao-yao-san, so-ochim-tang-gamiband, and saikokaryukotsuboreito are notable herbal treatments for mental health problems.
What vitamins increase serotonin? ›- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) must be present to facilitate the conversion of either 5-HTP or tryptophan into serotonin. ...
- Folic Acid (vitamin B9) ...
- Vitamin C. ...
- Vitamin D. ...
- Magnesium. ...
- Zinc.
B vitamins are key players when it comes to fighting stress, especially vitamins B5 and B6. B5 (aka pantothenic acid, aka the “anti-stress vitamin”) helps regulate your production of the stress hormone cortisol when you're under chronic stress.
Does magnesium stabilize mood? ›Low magnesium levels can throw many of the body's functions off-course and raise risks for chronic health problems. Magnesium helps to protect metabolic health, stabilize mood, keep stress down, promote better sleep, and contributes to heart and bone health. Insomnia is a common symptom of magnesium deficiency.
What vitamins help with stress and depression? ›Vitamin B1, or thiamine, is often known as the anti-stress vitamin. Using B1 is key to improving mood and treating depression. Using B3, B9, and, in particular, B12, improves mood, a healthy nervous system, and brain health. A 2014 study showed taking B vitamins had a positive impact on occupational stress.
What is a fast acting mood stabilizer? ›Valproic acid, also known as divalproex or valproate, is a highly effective mood stabilizer. Common brand names include Depakote and Depakene. Valproic acid is often the first choice for rapid cycling, mixed mania, or mania with hallucinations or delusions.
What medicine helps with racing thoughts? ›- antidepressants.
- anti-anxiety medications.
- antipsychotics.
- mood stabilizers.
One of the most effective mood-boosting supplements is 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). 5-HTP is a natural amino acid that boosts production of serotonin. Low serotonin is associated with mood swings, depression, anxiety, and trouble sleeping.
What is the best calming antidepressant? ›SSRIs and SNRIs are often the first-line treatment for anxiety. Common SSRI brands are Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, and Zoloft. Common SNRI brands are Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Effexor XR. Pros: They are effective for a lot of people and they have a solid safety profile.
What drugs treat both anxiety and depression? ›...
Examples of SSRIs that doctors prescribe in the U.S. include :
- fluoxetine.
- sertraline.
- paroxetine.
- fluvoxamine.
- citalopram.
- escitalopram.
- vilazodone.
What is a natural treatment for anger management? ›
- Think before you speak. In the heat of the moment, it's easy to say something you'll later regret. ...
- Once you're calm, express your concerns. ...
- Get some exercise. ...
- Take a timeout. ...
- Identify possible solutions. ...
- Stick with 'I' statements. ...
- Don't hold a grudge. ...
- Use humor to release tension.
Mood stabilizers for anger can be effective because they work to lessen, delay and even prevent episodes of mania and depression that may fuel these emotions.
Do mood stabilizers help with aggression? ›Mood stabilizers, including valproic acid, carbamazepine, and lithium, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing aggressive behaviors in adolescents with DBDs.
What natural supplements help with anger and stress? ›Several vitamins and other supplements have been linked to reduced stress symptoms, including Rhodiola rosea, melatonin, glycine, and ashwagandha. L-theanine, B complex vitamins, and kava may also help increase your body's resistance to life's stressors.
Does Ashwagandha increase anger? ›As mentioned above, ashwagandha can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar levels, and low blood sugar symptoms can both mirror and increase the intensity of anxiety. An increased heart rate, racing mind, shakiness, irritability, and panic are all symptoms that can intensify due to low blood sugar.
How do I stop explosive anger? ›Do something to distract yourself mentally or physically – anything that completely changes your situation, thoughts or patterns can help stop your anger escalating. For example, you could try: putting on upbeat music and dancing. doing something with your hands, like fixing something or making something.
Why do I get irritated and angry so easily? ›Many factors can cause or contribute to irritability, including life stress, a lack of sleep, low blood sugar levels, and hormonal changes. Extreme irritability, or feeling irritable for an extended period, can sometimes indicate an underlying condition, such as an infection or diabetes.
What is the best med for bipolar anger? ›Lithium: The first mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers are medications that help control the highs and lows of bipolar disorder. They are the cornerstone of treatment, both for mania and depression. Lithium is the oldest and most well-known mood stabilizer and is highly effective for treating mania.
Is gabapentin a mood stabilizer? ›Gabapentin may be effective for treating depression and anxiety, among other things. Although gabapentin was traditionally used to treat seizures, it is now sometimes used as a mood stabilizer for depression and bipolar disorder because it calms neurons in the brain, and it may be effective for anxiety too.
Does serotonin help with aggression? ›Serotonin and Aggression
Research indicates that, in general, the neurotransmitter serotonin has an inhibitory action in the brain (Daw et al., 2002; Yan, 2002) and that it is deeply involved in the regulation of emotion and behavior, including the inhibition of aggression (Davidson et al., 2000; Volavka, 1999).
What can I take for anxiety and irritability? ›
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) SSRIs and SNRIs are often the first-line treatment for anxiety. Common SSRI brands are Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, and Zoloft. Common SNRI brands are Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Effexor XR.