For many people who struggle from depression, there is a family genetic link. Other family members – mother, father, aunty, uncle, sister, brother, cousin – may suffer from depression, bipolar, anxiety, autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), behavioural issues, or suicidal tendencies. It can be discouraging thinking that because it is genetic, that there’s nothing you can do about it- that there’s no cure. Take heart. Even though you may have a genetic tendency for depression, it doesn’t mean it has to control you.

Over the next couple of blogs I’m going to discuss one physical cause of depression that runs in families called the Mauve Factor (also known as kryptopyrroles). You don’t have to be defined by this genetic cause for depression, it can be easily treated with simple nutritional supplements.

What is the Mauve Factor/ Kryptopyrroles?

The Mauve factor (or Mauve for short) is an overlooked cause of depression and other mental health issues. It has formerly been known as kryptopyrroles. The Mauve factor is a substance made in the body that is toxic to both the brain and nervous system. The knowledge that the Mauve factor is toxic to the cells of the brain explains why individuals with high-Mauve levels may experience depression and other mental health disorders.

The Mauve factor was first discovered by Dr Abram Hoffer, a researcher and psychiatrist, in the 1960s. His research group found that high levels of Mauve were present in a large number of schizophrenic patients. When these schizophrenic patients were in remission (i.e. they had no symptoms of schizophrenia), the level of Mauve in these individuals was reduced to normal amounts.

Increased levels of Mauve are found in up to eighty percent of those with schizophrenia, but are also found in high levels in other mental health conditions.

Common Mental Health Disorders with High Mauve Levels:

  • Depression
  • Alcoholism & Addictions
  • Autism & Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Criminal Behaviors.

High-Mauve, Depression, and Mental Health

Studies show that up to fifty percent of those suffering from manic depression and twenty to eighty percent of alcoholics have high levels of Mauve. Having these higher levels of Mauve is referred to as being ‘high-Mauve’. High-Mauve is often associated with anxiety, a high level of inner tension, and explosive mood swings. If you were ‘an awkward child or teenager’ this relates to you too.

Next time I’ll discuss other physical symptoms of the Mauve Factor. These indicators, like stretch marks, white dots in your finger nails, and sore joints, can be ‘tell-tale’ signs for being ‘high-Mauve’.

If you want to find out about more biochemical causes of depression that run in the family get your copy of my free depression report by visiting www.breakingfreefromdepression.com/free-report.

Talk to you next time.

Janelle

Dr Janelle Sinclair

BSc, MSc, PhD (Biochemistry), NZNMA