Treatment Strategy Kampo practitioners prefer herbal formulas rather than single herbs for the treatment of depression. Herbal formulas offer a more comprehensive balancing of energies in various parts of the body. Do not take more than one Kampo formula for depression at one time. We suggest that you use the one formula that best fits the symptom pattern. Consult a Kampo or TCM practitioner to determine which formulas are appropriate for you.
Single herbs are useful for long-term use in cases of mild to moderate depression.
They should be used to augment or complement antidepressant therapy rather than substitute it. Kampo therapy complements antidepressant therapy by acting on the brain in ways different from those of the various drugs. Relieves sadness and mild depression in adults who have both diabetes and attention deficit disorder. Juices or teas of young rice or wheat seedlings can be used instead of barley sprouts. For long-term depression, use the formula instead.