Although the exact percentage of people who suffer adverse side effects from antidepressants is unknown, horror stories are all too common. Patty recounts her husband's hellish experience with Prozac, which he suffered adverse side effects. He had become depressed over the loss of their homes to fire. His doctor prescribed a light dosage of Prozac. 

After four months his life turned into a hellish nightmare. He lost consciousness at work and ended up in the hospital. Then the thoughts of suicide cane. He attempted to end his life multiple times. Rest did little to ease his mind, with sleep came unimagineable nightmares. His behavior grew more and more reckless.  He started speeding regularly in his car, then came an extra-martial affair. Physical side effects developed, like trembling and the sensation of electric currents through his body. The couple went to another doctor who Patty thought would take him off the medication.   To her horror he increased the dosage!

The following herbs for depression have been successful in helping many sufferers:

St. John's Wort -- this is the most popular of herbs for depression. St. John's Wort is derived from a yellow flower called Hyperium Perforatum.  The active ingredient in the herb is believed to balance brain chemicals neurotransmitters like serotonin, etc. The herb has been so effective for treating mild depression it is prescribed in certain countries. Luckily in the US it can be purchased over-the-counter at any drug or grocery store. While many clinical studies have confirmed its effectiveness, the jury is still out on others. The side effects are few compared to antidepressants. The most common adverse side effect of St. John's wort is; upset stomach, drowsiness and dizziness. People with a history of bipolar disorder should not take this herb, as they may trigger mania. It takes 2 to 4 weeks for St. John's wort start working.

Ginkgo Biloba -- derived from a species of trees, certain properties in Ginkgo have been shown to enhance memory and concentration. People suffering from depression have found increased attentiveness using this herb. Ginkgo extract was shown to increase blood circulation and from studies, thus people with blood disorders are not advised to take it. Possible side effects of Ginkgo are gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, increased heartbeat and restlessness. Effectiveness usually peaks two hours after did digestion.

Gotu Kola- is also called Centella Asiatic derived from a small herbaceous plant.  Gotu Kola has been used in many ways. Most popular in Asia and Europe it is eaten raw in salads to maintain youthfulness. The leaves are used in Thailand tea as a stimulant.  Juices from the leaves are believed to ease hypertension.  Gotu Kola is considered brain food in India, where it's known to enhance memory, comprehension and mental ability. No adverse effects have been reported for Gotu Kola.

Rosemary -- In its natural form Rosemary is a woody, perennial herb, with needle-like leaves that give off a strong evergreen fragrance.  Popular in culinary dishes, Rosemary can be very helpful in treating mild to moderate depression and can improve symptoms of well-being.   A scientific study was performed where the Aroma of Rosemary was dispersed into the cubicles of office workers without their prior knowledge.   Researchers found that workers exposed to the Aroma, showed a significant increase in performance, working memory and reaction times; as opposed to workers who were not exposed to the Aroma.   Rosemary is a popular essential oil and is often used in Aroma therapy.   People prone to epileptic seizures should use precaution when using Rosemary in culinary dishes or as an essential oil, due to epileptogenic properties in the herb.