Can You Use St Johns Wort for Depression?

First, a word of caution. Like most herbs, you should definitely check with your doctor before taking St Johns Wort for depression. There are many reasons to take the safe route... the primary one of course is to make sure herbs don't react to your treatment by your doctor. And only your doctor will know about that. So be safe, and check with your doctor before trying any herbs and most specifically, St. John's Wort.

Now, St. John's Wort is also called, Hypericum Perforatum... it is a herb that has been used for treating those with depression. Herbalists believe that this plant has special ingredients that helps the brain produce more serotonin, which makes your body feel better.

Not surprisingly, this special plant is named after St. John the Baptist. It produces a yellow flower (see picture on this page) that almost looks like a halo. They say that red sap runs down from the herb which represents the blood of St. John.

Greek name for St. John's Wort is Hypericum, which stands for "greatest health." It appears that even the ancient Greeks knew something about the magical properties of this herb.

Because this herb was used for 100s of years as a way to treat burns, wounds, sleep disorders and as a sedative. They say that St. John's Wort is very effective for treating anxiety and other sleep disorders such as insomnia and even depression.

Picture credit: Fir0002/Flagstaffotos GFDL

Now you can practically buy this herb in many different forms from your local herbal or vitamin stores. They come in teas, extracts an even capsules to swallow. The good thing that in United States, this plant isn't regulated so much... so that you can purchase them over the counter. In Europe however, St. John's Wort is prescribed by physicians for those suffering from depression and other sleep disorders.

But I'm sure those of you who live in Europe can tell me if this is true or not... just send me a quick email.

Like I said at the beginning of this article, please don't try to diagnose yourself... go to your family doctor and talk it over with them. Make sure that taking alternative therapies such as herbs won't conflict with your prescriptions. And remember this is true of most herbs... not only St. John's Wort.

And besides, if you have trouble handling things... you are very depressed and may even have suicidal tendencies... ALWAYS consult with a professional for expert help before even considering taking St. John's Wort.

My understanding is that if you are suffering from bipolar condition... don't take St. John's Wort.

Never stop taking your prescribed medication... always consult with your doctor FIRST.

If you are pregnant... it is always a good idea not to make any changes or add herbs to your diet without talking to health professional... don't risk your unborn baby.

If my warnings haven't scared you yet... then this might... yes, there are some side effects with St. John's Wort... it really depends on your body and everyone reacts differently than others. Some of you may experience a mild to severe allergic reaction. Some may experience sensitivity to light. Others may feel tired and feel nausea. Other symptoms may be headaches, dizziness and a dry mouth.

Again, always consult with your doctor before taking any herbs for your conditions. But yes, many folks have used St Johns Wort for depression.

Be good,

Kate

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Please Note: This article is copywritten material.