[marimara]

I take a multivitamin/mineral/herbal complex from Rite Aid Whole Source for women. I have noticed significant changes in my emotional health when I take it. When I miss it I actually feel depressed and when I take it makes me feel good. I need to know which herb in it is actually exerting the antidepressant activity in case they should ever stop making this vitamin. This pill has also had significant effects on my menstrual cycle, associated PMS, migraines, and acne around my period. It has shortened my period by 3 days and I have way less cramps. Only one day of PMS, and no acne. Here is the list of herbs:

Dong Quai
Ginger Root
Gingko biloba
horsetail rush
siberian root (eleutherococcus senticosis)
black cohosh

it also has royal jelly powder in it but I didn't that could be it. Could someone tell me which herb is most likely having an antidepressant effect on me? Thanks!!!

 

[FrannieP]

Quote:

Dong Quai Ginger Root Gingko biloba horsetail rush siberian root (eleutherococcus senticosis) black cohosh it also has royal jelly powder in it but I didn't that could be it. Could someone tell me which herb is most likely having an antidepressant effect on me? Thanks!!!

My guess is that the combination of Dong Quai and Cohosh are balancing out your hormones which is having a positive effect on your mood.
Siberian Ginseng and Ginger are both slightly energizing which can also lift the spirits. Ginkgo increases circulation.
Balanced hormones really go a long way to optimal health.
Glad you are feeling good!

fp

edited to add:
It may not be just the herbs - quite often adding deficient vitamins and minerals will get the metabolism going again and help brain chemistry - especially b vitamins, magnesium, zinc, etc.

 

[tinuviel_k]

Honestly...? I don't think it is the herbs. I really don't believe herbs are very effective in a powdered/processed pill form, especially at such low quantities as would be present in a multi-vitamin.

 

[Deir]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tinuviel_k Honestly...? I don't think it is the herbs. I really don't believe herbs are very effective in a powdered/processed pill form, especially at such low quantities as would be present in a multi-vitamin.

In this case it might be right but I have had alot of success (ie: a baby!! after 2 yrs of IF treatments) using powdered herbs. I even experimented with tinctures but went back to the capsules. It might be the quality that I am getting is really good but they definitely worked for me!

 

[marimara]

That's really interesting. I know I feel a difference when I don't take them and I know for sure they are affecting my menstrual cycle so I think they are working somehow. I have taken herbs before in liquid, capsule, and tablet form. Well, whatever it is it's working.

I believe herbs can work in the dried form and have had success in using them before for other things. Even dried herb in capsule form that can be bought at drug stores. So, they ARE working. I just was wondering which herb but maybe it's just that particular combination. Many other reviewers who took this particular vitamin also reported good effects.