St. John's Wort for Depression

Hypericum perforatum

St. John’s Wort is a plant native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and is probably best known as the most common herbal treatment for depression. Considered a weed in many regions, it can choke out useful vegetation in pastures and is toxic to livestock.

St. John’s Wort to Treat Depression

Method

• St. John’s Wort is readily available in capsule form. Take as directed on the package.

Why It Works

St. John’s Wort is most effective against minor depression, also called dysthymia, and has a much lower incidence of side effects than standard drugs, especially when compared to the older tricyclic antidepressants. The exact mechanism is unclear, but St. John’s Wort seems to inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, similar to the effects of the newer SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) antidepressants.

Precautions

Side effects are uncommon, but may include gastrointestinal discomfort, sensitivity to light, dizziness, and fatigue. St. John’s Wort can reduce the effectiveness of certain prescription medications; tell your doctor about any supplements you are taking. Depression can be a serious medical condition – please see your doctor if you think you may have a depressive disorder. St. John’s Wort is not meant to replace proper medical care.

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