St. John’s Wort

One of the most popular herbal remedies, St. John’s Wort dates back to legends of John the Baptist. The herb is derived from a yellow flower native to Europe and Asia. European colonists brought St. John’s Wort to North America where it is classified as a weed in spite of its averred medical benefits.

Historical and Contemporary Uses

St. John’s Wort was used by the Native Americans to end unwanted pregnancies. When ingested, some reported that St. John’s Wort had the ability to induce abortion, in the right dose. (Warning: do not use St. John’s Wort to induce abortion). The Native Americans also used a compound made of St. John’s Wort topically to treat inflammation and to clean dirt from wounds.

Today St. John’s Wort is popularly used to treat depression. The clinical studies for its efficacy as an anti depressant vary wildly. Some find it largely more effective than placebos while others place the two equally. Nevertheless, homeopathic practitioners often employ St. John’s Wort for mildly and severely depressed patients. In Germany the herb is more often prescribed than pharmaceuticals.

Why St. John’s Wort works is largely a mystery. Doctors theorize that the herb inhibits serotonin re-uptake (by not allowing the brain to soak up the naturally-occuring pleasure inducing chemical serotonin, re-uptake inhibitors allow the brain more happy time with a higher amount of the chemical available). If this is true, then St. John’s Wort works just like prescription anti depressants.

Is there a down side to using St. John’s Wort?

St. John’s Wort can cause dizziness, confusion, and stomach pains. Some report increased apathy during its use. Rare incidences have been reported where subjects experienced increased sensitivity to light, getting sunburns in unlikely situations. It is believed that St. John’s Wort may reduce fertility. Patients sometimes also experience painful withdrawal symptoms when they stop using St. John’s Wort, even when they did not benefit from the herb.

How much should I take?

For these purposes recommended dosages must be followed. As with all herbs, excessive use leads to negative side effects. Make sure not to use the herb for long periods of time and always follow dosage instructions. While directions may vary on the package, some general guidelines follow.

The dried herb can be mixed with water and taken orally. Use 2 – 4 grams of the herb and drink the concoction three times daily.

In liquid concentrate take 2 – 4 milliliters three times daily.

Conclusion

Many studies done on St. John’s Wort have produced counter results. If you suffer from depression and are averse to Prozac and other anti depressants, try taking St. John’s Wort and take note of your reaction. It may prove to be your remedy.