St John's Wort
St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is one of the most studied herbal medicines for depression. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine.
What is St John's Wort?
St John's Wort, with the scientific name Hypericum perforatum, is a perennial herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. St John's Wort can be recognised by its yellow flowers and its characteristic perforated leaves. In Sweden, it often grows at forest edges and in meadows.
How does it work in the body?
St John's Wort works by inhibiting the reuptake of key neurotransmitters such as serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine.
Scientific benefits
Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of St John's Wort as a treatment for depression. A meta-analysis published in The Cochrane Library showed that St John's Wort was more effective than placebo for treating mild to moderate depression. Other studies have also shown that St John's Wort can have similar effects to certain conventional antidepressant medications, but with fewer side effects.
- Research in Phytotherapy Research showed that St John's Wort may have a positive effect on anxiety and irritability in patients with depression.
- Another study showed that St John's Wort may help improve quality of life in patients with chronic illnesses.
Dosage and recommendations
The recommended dose of St John's Wort varies depending on the product's strength and concentration. Generally, a dose of 300 mg of standardized extract (containing 0.3% hypericin) three times a day is recommended. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult a doctor before starting a new treatment, especially if you are already taking other medications.
Best sources and forms
St John's Wort is available in several different forms, including capsules, tablets, tea and tinctures. Standardized extracts are preferred as they ensure a certain amount of active substances. It is also possible to make tea from the dried flowers, which can be a more natural method of intake. When choosing a product, it is important to select a reliable manufacturer to ensure quality and purity.
Side effects and warnings
Although St John's Wort is considered safe for most people, it can cause some side effects. Common side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Skin rash, especially when exposed to sunlight
It is also important to note that St John's Wort can interact with several medications, including antidepressants, blood thinners and certain hormonal agents. It is strongly recommended to consult a doctor before using St John's Wort, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a history of bipolar disorder.
Frequently asked questions
Can St John's Wort help with anxiety?
Research suggests that St John's Wort may have a positive effect on anxiety and can help alleviate symptoms in people with depression.
Is St John's Wort safe to use with other medications?
St John's Wort can interact with several medications, so it is important to consult a doctor before combining it with other medicines.
How long does it take for St John's Wort to work?
The effect of St John's Wort can take several weeks to notice, usually between 4-6 weeks to see a significant change in symptoms.
Can I use St John's Wort during pregnancy?
Why is St John's Wort so popular?
St John's Wort has become popular because it offers a natural alternative treatment for depression with fewer side effects than many conventional antidepressant medications.
