Numerous factors affect your moods. Mood disorders, notes MerckManuals.com, are emotional disturbances that involve extended periods of sadness or anxiety and are classified as either depressive or bipolar 1. Sadness is a normal response to disappointment or discouraging scenarios, but prolonged, extreme sadness may be an indication of an underlying disorder. Certain herbs may improve your mood and make you feel happy, although it is always wise to discuss the health implications of herbs with your doctor before using them.

Mood-Related Disorders

There are numerous mood-related disorders that may contribute to feelings of unhappiness 1. McGill University's Mental Health Service states that common mood-related disorders include adjustment disorder with depressed mood, dysthymic disorder or chronic depression, major depression and manic-depressive disorder 1. Many people with mood-related disorders or depressive illnesses do not seek the help they require, even though most people with these conditions can experience a significant shift in their mood or outlook with appropriate treatment methods 1.

Beneficial Herbs

Beneficial herbs for treating your mood-related disorder or depressive illness include herbs that possess anti-depressive action. In "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and expert herbalist, states that certain herbs help restore a sense of peace, or happiness, in people suffering from low moods or depression, including orange and lavender essential oils, Avena sativa, chamomile, skullcap, kava kava, St. John's wort and schisandra 2. Other beneficial herbs include ginseng, lemon balm and ginger.

Featured Botanical

Lavender is one of the most frequently prescribed botanicals for low mood and depression. According to Phyllis A. Balch, a nutrition researcher and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," lavender essential oil can help reduce stress and alleviate your depression 3. Lavender possesses anti-inflammatory action and is helpful in treating exhaustion and an inability to sleep, or insomnia. Insomnia itself may contribute to feelings of sadness and low mood. This herbal remedy may also help treat nausea and indigestion.

Considerations

Mood-related disorders and depressive illnesses are serious health problems that usually benefit from timely and appropriate care 1. If you are experiencing feelings of prolonged sadness, consider visiting a qualified health care professional for the care you need. In many cases, relevant treatments suggested by your physician may be combined with talk therapy for optimal results. Herbal medicines, though often helpful in making you feel happy, should not be used alone. Herbs are best used under the care and supervision of a knowledgeable health care practitioner.