Top 4 Natural Remedies for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Treating obsessive-compulsive disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, commonly known as OCD is a condition where people become obsessed with compulsive thoughts and actions. Some OCD type behaviors include repetitive hand washing, checking simple procedures, like turning off your stove repeatedly. Essentially, a person suffering from OCD tries to neutralize their obsessive thoughts through compulsive behavior. Below are some home remedies that can be used to help treat OCD and alleviate some of its symptoms.

Milk thistle

Milk thistle is a wonderful plant that can stand its ground against prescription medications when it comes to OCD treatment. A recent study has determined that just 600 mg of milk thistle extract is almost as effective as 30 mg of fluoxetine which is an antidepressant used to treat anxiety disorders. This plant contains silymarin which is a flavonoid that acts as a mood increaser. It increases levels of serotonin which is a neurotransmitter and mood regulating hormone.

Borage oil
This plant is another natural way to counteract the symptoms of OCD. The borage plant contains an oil which has an anti-inflammatory known as gamma-linolenic acid. Studies have shown that patients who use borage oil over time feel less anxious over time. Do not use it while pregnant or if you are suffering from liver disease.

Zinc
Zinc is one of the best things you can use to treat OCD. It is a vital trace element that can be found naturally in food, like fatty fish, legumes, lamb, beef, and other animal products. Zinc acts as a neurotransmitter which helps to modulate the brain and body’s stress responses. A deficiency in zinc has been known to result in depression and anxiety disorders as well as OCD.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is a very popular herbal remedy for a variety of different issues. Not all experts agree on its effectiveness in treating OCD, but it has been used as a treatment. The theory is that Saint John’s Wort acts as a monoamine reuptake inhibitor and actually blocks the breaking down of neurotransmitters like serotonin.