Is there homeopathic/herbal medicine that has effects comparable to a prescription antidressant? Side effects?

I am personally against taking xanex, zoloft (if that's even an antidepressant) or any other prescription medication for depression. (Family history of dependance on such pills) I always try to take the herbal route with medications, so I am curious if anyone knows of any such herbal alternatives, and if so, the side effects to expect? I need something that will be especially helpful during PMS, but also help me when I don't have PMS, as I am prone to bouts of depression at various times, but it is especially intense during PMS. I don't have medical insurance at the moment, so seeing a doctor is out of the question. Please help. I am getting to be where I am scared of PMS because of how my mind works.

You can take St. Johns Wort. Look it up on the web.

St. John's Wort has probably the most good evidence for efficacy in treating depression. However it also has side effects. Talk to your doctor.

Your diet is the easiest way to control your body (Garbage in, garbage out). High sugar/carb diets cause blood sugars to surge and crash, which can make you feel moody, depressed. Hormone imbalances can also cause severe PMS. All natural progesterone can help with PMS, and you can get it at places like Walgreens
http://www.walgreens.com/store/product.j...

I suggest trying all natural Moodlift Complex. It supports feelings of well-being by using a blend of complimentary herbs: St. John's Wort, Inositol, Eleutherococcus Senticosus, and Green Oats.

It may take a few weeks to actually start seeing results so be patient and it has no side effects.

Hope this is useful and feel free to contact me with questions.

YES!!!!

I used to be on Zoloft, Wellbutrin, and the worst for me was Effexor...I came off it several years ago wanting an herbal equivalent, like you. I was wanting SAMe because I didn't like what I heard or read about St. John's Wort. SAMe was more expensive. I am on Mood Elevator...a product by Nature's Sunshine. They have two...I am on the concentrated one that you only take 2 in the morning. It was in my system and I was feeling better by day 2.

I HAVE NO SIDE EFFECTS!!!! Check your local herb store, vitamin places... some carry it...or you can buy online.

The other answers are good but there is something else that really works...exercise. Like anything else, it doesn't happen overnight but give it a while and you should see a difference. In order for it to work, you must be dedicated and consistent.

In the study I listed as my source, participants in the exercise-only group experienced more positive results that the group on antidepressants AND even the group on antidepressants and exercise.

I have a history of depression and in the past have tried St johns wort, seemed to help with very mild symptoms for the first month or so but didnt do anything when i hit a rough spot . I got Rhodiolla (not sure of spelling) from the health food shop they are made by Solgar. Excellent you take between 1 - 3 pills each day, i just take 1 most days and then 2 or 3 if my mood starts to drop. Try them. x