In recent years, depression has become increasingly common and is affecting people at a younger age, posing a serious threat to the health of young individuals. Relying on Western medicine for treatment often leads to prolonged delays and the risk of developing drug dependency. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners have found that using ancient remedies or even just adjusting diet can often yield unexpected results.
According to a Gallup survey, the incidence of depression among adults under 30 in the United States is showing a steep rise, jumping from 13.0% in 2017 to 26.7% in 2025, doubling in just eight years.
Dr. Lu Minfei, a senior Chinese medicine practitioner in Southern California, identified three main causes of depression:
– Nutritional deficiency: Some patients have picky eating habits or are vegetarians and may be lacking in essential vitamins like B vitamins, especially vitamin B-12, which has been linked to depression.
– Psychological trauma: Experiencing heartbreak, academic or career challenges, or dissatisfaction at work can lead to feelings of frustration.
– Postpartum depression: Women may experience physical discomfort and fatigue after childbirth, which can affect their emotions.
Dr. Lu observed that many depression patients who had previously been treated with Western medicine had unsatisfactory results and experienced side effects. However, after undergoing Chinese medicine dietary adjustments, these patients showed significant improvements in their emotions.
Dr. Lu introduced two ancient remedies for treating depression.
For patients with loss of appetite and low spirits, or those feeling restless and hopeless, Dr. Lu recommended the use of “Gan Mai Da Zao Tang”.
This famous traditional Chinese herbal formula consists of licorice, wheat, and jujube, known colloquially as “forgetfulness water” or “happiness water.” It was created by the renowned physician Zhang Zhongjing and is effective in nourishing the heart, calming the mind, relieving fever, and dispelling restlessness.
“Xiao Yao San” is another traditional herbal remedy for depression. True to its name, it helps regulate liver function, promote Qi circulation, and uplift mood. It was praised by the Qing dynasty physician Ye Tianshi as the “sacred medicine for gynecology.” The formula includes angelica, white peony, bupleurum, licorice, mint, poria, and other herbs, with regulatory effects on symptoms like insomnia, vivid dreams, chest tightness, depression, liver-spleen disharmony, emotional distress, and neurasthenia.
Dr. Lu added that there are many other Chinese herbal remedies that can improve mood, such as Liuwei Dihuang Wan and Gui Pi Tang. Treatment should be tailored according to the specific type of depression.
Dr. Lu advised that patients or their parents can incorporate Chinese medicinal ingredients into their diets as suggested by their doctors for daily health maintenance, allowing children to unconsciously become happier and more cheerful.
For instance, parents can brew oyster shell water for their children to drink to prevent depression. Drinking barley tea can help reduce internal heat, while drinking water boiled with wheat bran can stabilize emotions and alleviate anxiety. Additionally, consuming red dates and wheat can have mood-lifting effects. Adding a few jujubes to porridge and mixing in maltose after cooking can also uplift mood.
In addition to dietary therapy for prevention, Dr. Lu recommended:
– Encouraging young patients to keep toys or other beloved items close or hug them while sleeping to bring joy.
– Regular exercise to relax the body and mind, promote blood circulation, and boost happiness and vitality once blood and Qi circulation improves.
– Engaging in activities one enjoys, such as singing, dancing, going out with friends, among others, can improve mood.
Dr. Lu emphasized that treating depression does not always require Western medicine to avoid dependency and side effects like drowsiness or weight gain. However, not all Western medicine has side effects, and it should be analyzed on a case-by-case basis.