Home Remedies and Herbs for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is classified as a mental illness. It is also known as manic depression and can be characterized by severe mood swings, cognitive problems and a general feeling of unease. The keys to successfully managing bipolar disorder are early detection, diagnosis and treatment. Without these, bipolar disorder can make life for the patient and those they care about very difficult.¹

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

There are a few major causes of bipolar disorder. It is not clear how these all play a part in the development of bipolar disorder, yet they do play a part. The main causes are:

• Genetics
• Neuro-chemical factors
• Environmental Factors
• Possibly some medications²

What are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?

Some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder are disguised as normal things that may occur when someone becomes stressed out. They may experience some of these symptoms just like other people. The difference is that these symptoms are usually magnified to the point where the patient with bipolar disorder cannot control their reactions or actions. Some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder are:

• Poor judgment
• Not needing a lot of sleep
• High sex drive
• Fast talking
• Overly good mood
• Higher than normal energy levels
• Aggression³

How is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of bipolar disorder can only be done by a physician. It usually involves a series of medical tests including blood work, a personal history of the patient and an overall physical exam. There may also be a mental health component to the diagnosis of bipolar if the doctor deems in necessary. The doctor will also consult a book of diagnostic and medical disorders (DSM) to confirm diagnosis.⁴

How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

Treatment of bipolar disorder is usually done in stages. The first stage is to get the patient on any medications needed to help balance their mood. The next step is to have the patient go to therapy and learn how to cope with their bipolar disorder. If the patient has been abusing drugs or alcohol prior to diagnosis of bipolar disorder, a detox or drug and alcohol rehab may also be suggested. One of the most extreme treatments is commitment to a mental ward or hospitalization. This is usually done in only the most extreme cases of bipolar disorder. It usually depends on how bad the bipolar has become and how long between onset of symptoms as well as severity of those symptoms.

Natural Medicinal Options for Bipolar Disorder

• Lavender - This has a calming effect on the mind. Inhaling it during a manic episode may give the patient relief from the stress of the breakdown. It can also be used in a bath if wanted.
• St. John’s Wort - St. John’s wart is used as a natural treatment for depression. It may be helpful for someone with bipolar disorder because it can be good for managing the manic depression that often comes with the disorder.
• Valerian - Valerian is another calming herb. It can be taken in pill or oil form. The best way may be to drop a few drops in a hot bath and let the bipolar patient inhale the oil. It will help calm their body and mind.
• Fish Oil - Fish oil has compounds that will help give the brain extra nutrients. In many bipolar patients there may be lower brain function and the fish oil may be helpful in increasing the brain function when it comes to fighting bipolar disorder.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness but it is manageable. A doctor and patient must be on the same page for treatment to be successful. Following counseling appointments as well as both natural and any prescribed therapies will go a long way to successful treatment. Many people with bipolar disorder lead full lives, especially when they have the support of their friends, family and physician.

References

1. http://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/mental-health-bipolar-disorder
2. http://psychcentral.com/lib/the-causes-of-bipolar-disorder-manic-depression/
3. http://www.everydayhealth.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-symptoms.aspx
4. http://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-diagnosis-guide#Evaluation3