GABA for Depression, Anxiety and PMS
- Cherisa Klopick
- Sep 28, 2019
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 30, 2019
What Is Gaba?
Gamma-aminobutyric acid, also known as GABA, is a neurotransmitter that helps send messages between the brain and the nervous system. It is produced in the brain from glutamate. This process is catalyzed by the active form of vitamin B6 and the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (GAD). Its main function is to reduce the activity of nerve cells in the nervous system.
A good amount of emerging research has found that it could play a role in many conditions, including depression, anxiety and stress.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid is thought to have a natural calming effect and is believed to reduce feelings of anxiety and fear by decreasing neuronal excitability(1)
GABA can be used to calm the body in much the same way as diazepam (valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and other tranquilizers, but with out the fear of addiction. It has been used in the treatment of epilepsy and hyper tension.
GABA is good for depressed sex drive because of its ability as a relaxant. It is also useful for enlarged prostate gland, probably because it plays a role in the mechanism of regulating the release of sex hormones. GABA is effective in treating attention deficit disorder and may reduce cravings for alcohol. It is also thought to promote growth hormone secretion.
Too much GABA, however, can cause increased anxiety, shortness of breath, numbness around the mouth, and tingling in the extremities.(2)
GABA Uses and Benefits
1. Relieves Anxiety
2. Improves Sleep
3. Reduces Depression Symptoms
4. Relieves Symptoms of PMS
5. Decreases Inflammation
6. Improves Focus in ADHD
7. Increases Levels of Growth Hormone
1. Relieves Anxiety
One of the main functions of GABA is to reduce nerve excitability, which could be linked to feelings of anxiety and fear. This is because it has a calming effect and is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety. In fact, certain anxiety disorders have even been associated with decreased levels of GABA.A study in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that those with panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurring panic attacks, had an impaired GABA response. Another study from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons’ Department of Psychiatry showed that those with panic disorder and a family history of mood and anxiety disorders had decreased brain concentrations of GABA. In addition to GABA, there are many other natural remedies for anxiety available, such as meditation, essential oils or valerian root, an herb that helps increase levels of GABA to inhibit nerve activity.
2. Improves Sleep
Insomnia is a condition characterized by difficulty falling asleep that affects an estimated 30 percent of adults worldwide. GABA has a calming, sedative effect and may be able to help naturally induce sleep by reducing nerve excitability.One 2015 study found that taking GABA helped participants fall asleep quickly, shortening the amount of time it took to fall asleep by an average of five minutes. Additionally, those with insomnia may actually have lower levels of GABA. A 2008 study in the journal Sleep found that patients with insomnia had 30 percent lower levels compared to a control group. Besides using GABA for sleep, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, limiting your caffeine intake and taking magnesium to help promote GABA function can all also encourage better sleep.
3. Reduces Depression
In addition to preventing anxiety and regulating sleep, the GABA neurotransmitter is also thought to play a central role in depression. Research has found that people with depression tend to have lower levels of GABA than those without depression. GABA levels may also increase after depression is treated. One study from the Department of Psychiatry at the Yale University School of Medicine showed that patients who underwent electroconvulsive therapy for their depression exhibited increased levels of GABA following treatment. Thanks to its antidepressant effect, GABA may be a good alternative to traditional treatments for depression. Other natural remedies for depression include modifying your diet, getting in plenty of exercise and making sure you’re meeting your vitamin D needs.(3)
GABA is taken by mouth for relieving anxiety, improving mood, reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used for promoting lean muscle growth, burning fat, stabilizing blood pressure, and relieving pain.
Side Effects & Safety
GABA is LIKELY SAFE when taken correctly by mouth for short periods of time, up to 12 weeks.
Special Precautions & Warnings: Pregnancy and breast-feeding:
Not enough is known about the use of GABA during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.(4)
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