St. John’s Wort for Moderate Depression
{script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}St. John’s Wort is a plant that has been used for centuries in the
treatment of mild to moderate depression. Major depression is defined as
a sad mood or loss of interest or pleasure in activities for at least 2 weeks,
with at least four other symptoms present.
An extract made from St. John’s Wort contains several compounds
including hypericum, polycyclic phenols and pseudohypericin. These
compounds are thought to be responsible for the extract’s activity against
depression. Scientists who have studied St. John’s Wort believe
hypericum affects the amounts of neurotransmitters in the brain that
regulate mood. When used alone, side effects such dry mouth, dizziness,
and upset stomach have been mild and are uncommon. This herbal product
should not be used in those with bipolar disorder, since it can cause
symptoms of hypomania or mania. St. John’s Wort has been reported to
interact with several drugs including warfarin, indinavir, digoxin, theophylline,
cyclosporine, tacrolimus, MAO inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants,
and SSRI type antidepressants. Speak to a health care provider
to see if St. John’s Wort may be the right treatment for you.