Bipolar Disorder

[sakura-draoi.livejournal.com]

Does anyone here know of any herbs or natural remedies for the treatment of Bipolar Disorder? More accurately the manic or hypomanic part of this disease? Also what about the depression side of Bipolar Disorder? I know many people take St. John's Wort for Depression. I've read in some journals about valerian Root being used for Bipolar. any comments on this?

Thankyou in advance for any and all responses.

Comments

[lyght.livejournal.com]

The best natural remedy (as far as having actual studies behind it that I know of) is fish oil. Of course, that's not so hot if you're vegan, I guess.

Never heard of valerian being used for mania, although I can see why it might be suggested. Anything to help one chill. There are other "nervine" type herbs/spices that I have wondered about too, e.g., cardamom (I have noticed it takes jittery the edge off coffee).

It seems that this is an area wide open for study. I've looked around a few times for this info myself and haven't really come up with much.

[sagasdraumr.livejournal.com]

I have found that barley soup, oatmeal, and simple grain foods aide when I am in the more manic swing. Dietary change, a disciplined exercise routine that changes when I am up or down and moving meditation all have helped to reduce the frequency and intensity of the cycle. During times of depression, I change diet to reflect the lack of energy, motivation, and general blah's.

Separately, gotu kola works well for keeping mental focus during mania as well. This was based on recommendations from a TCM practitioner when I took myself off of the standard meds years ago.

[kahmiel.livejournal.com]

flax seed oil has the same omegas as fish oil and its vegan

[kahmiel.livejournal.com]

at least i think its flax seed... double check on that...

[ragnarkraki.livejournal.com]

I was dignosed with bi-polar years ago. None of the medications helped and the manic side of it was just increasing. From my observation and I've heard some herbalists say this, there is no such thing as bi-polar. It's either that you have controlling parents or you are going through puberty. Hoever I have found Valerian root to be good for my anxiety. Now I don't even need it. I've become a pretty calm person.

[finishingschool.livejournal.com]

Have you ever tried Kava Tea? I may be misinformed, but at least in New York State I've heard that you have to be 18 to buy it. It can be extremely calming without overly sedating in manic states as well as inducing clear thinking. I'm "bipolar" (ie, diagnosed, that is open to my own interpretation) too, and in more manic times a warm cup of kava tea is really great. Yogi tea makes a great-tasting kind.