Can herbs assist with mental wellbeing?

Certain herbs and natural supplements have shown promising potential in supporting mental health, but it is important to keep in mind:

• They should be used with care and never as a substitute for prescribed medication
• Speak with your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications
• Quality and standardisation of supplements can vary, so it’s important to choose products from reputable sources.

ASHWAGANDHA (WITHANIA)

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Recent studies have shown that daily doses of 300 to 600mg over several weeks may reduce stress, anxiety, fatigue, and improve sleep quality

Product example: Ask your DCO pharmacist about BioCeuticals Adrenoplex or Caruso’s Ashwagandha 7500

Caution: Ashwagandha may cause stomach upset and drowsiness. Long-term safety remains uncertain. Consult a healthcare provider before beginning supplementation, especially if you have health conditions or are taking medications.

TURMERIC (CURCUMA LONGA)

Turmeric, specifically its active compound curcumin, may support mental health by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress and modulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, factors linked to depression and anxiety.

Studies suggest curcumin may improve mood and may be especially helpful as an adjunct to conventional treatment. However, curcumin has low natural absorption, so choosing bioavailable formulations and consulting a healthcare professional is essential.

Australian example: Ask your DCO pharmacist about Quality Health Double Strength Turmeric 6200mg or BioCeuticals Theracurmin Triple

Caution: Some individuals reported mild gastrointestinal side effects.

ST JOHN’S WORT (HYPERICUM PERFORATUM)

St John’s Wort has been used traditionally for mood disorders. Numerous studies have shown that it is a safe and effective natural herb for depression, typically used for moderate depression.

Australian example: Ask your DCO pharmacist about Nature’s Own Mood Balance St John’s Wort

Caution: St John’s Wort can interact with many medications, including antidepressants, oral contraceptive pill, and blood thinners. Ask your pharmacist or doctor before use.

LAVENDER (LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA)

Lavender has shown promising clinical evidence to be a supportive herb for anxiety in various settings. A study involving participants with high levels of stress and anxiety discovered that lavender aromatherapy was able to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Australian example: Ask your DCO pharmacist about Ethical Nutrients Mega Magnesium Relax® or Blackmores Calm & Relax.

Caution: Effects may be short-term, and more research is needed to understand long-term benefits.

PASSIONFLOWER (PASSIFLORA INCARNATA)

Passionflower is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to help calm the mind and soothe the nerves while relieving nervous tension and mental overactivity.

Australian example: Ask your DCO pharmacist about Caruso’s Passionflower® or Ethical Nutrients Mega Magnesium Night.

Caution: Passionflower may cause drowsiness or increase the effects of other medications that act on the central nervous system. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are taking other medications or have any other underlying health conditions.

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