Alternative Treatments for Bipolar?
Question by blue_kitty: Alternative treatments for Bipolar?
I am currently on lamotrigien for bipolar 2. I was hospitalized in March for a “break down” but was then diagnosed BP2. I am still depressed simply because I can’t come to terms with taking chemicals in order to feel better. So have avoided the anti depressant part of the treatment i.e. molypaxin.
I have decided to wean myself of the above medication. I am looking for alternative methods of dealing with this, should I visit a Herbalist? I live in South Africa so not sure of the options we have here in terms of good herbalists. Are there other ways to manage this “disorder”.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Best answer:
Answer by nature mama
Are there any acupuncturists in your area? I can’t say that it would cure you, but it could help to mitigate some of your symptoms and reduce the amount of pills you need to take.
Answer by Qurtuba
Do some research on fish oil:
e.g. fish oil:
http://www.mind1st.co.uk/Fish-oil-bipolar.asp
http://www.mcmanweb.com/omega3.html
Plus you might like to run some research on Ashwaganhda [Withania somnifera], which is a well known Indian [Asian] Ayurvedic herb but also looks to be indigenous to South Africa [http://www.bioline.org.br/request?jb08003 ]. It looks like the US government is running clinical trials on this plant [under the brand name Sensoril] for bipolar disorder….certain aspects of it…
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00761761
I think another herb indigenous to South Africa, that is an Indian [Asian] Ayurvedic herb is Gotu kola [Centella asiatica]. Two of its uses are as an anti-depressant and memory improvement….it is also said to be tonic and sedative. You might like to run some research on this herb.
If you are going to visit a Herbalist make sure they are reputable, attached to a reputable clinic….and always check credentials and ask for testimonials and follow these up. Plus you have to be very careful with taking herbs when on prescribed medications…..as some herbs interact with some meds so it is alsways wise to check with a medical doctor or pharmacist first. Perhaps you could find a doctor who has an interest in herbal medicine.
I would be wary about weaning yourself off a medication if it is helping you because you don’t want to face the possibility of another breakdown. I think you could try the fish oil alongside your meds but discuss that with your doctor.
“Are there other ways to manage this “disorder”.” ……………..
perhaps you could find a forum or two to see what others have achieved with regards to that.
“I am still depressed simply because I can’t come to terms with taking chemicals in order to feel better. ” ………………………..
Depression is part of the bipolar disorder so you should not feel bad about it. Plus many take drugs for various disorders and there is certainly nothing to feel ashamed about either having to take drugs or having a disorder.
Sorry if this is not of much help. Just be careful and take good care of yourself in all ways.
I wish you a successful outcome and hope you can find a regime that you are happy with and keeps you well and stable.
Take care and God bless.
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Tags: mental health, clinical trial, bipolar disorder, alternative medicine, mental disorders, south africa