St John's Wort: Natural herbs for Depression
Growing
numbers of studies suggest Saint John's Wort helps
depression as effectively as some prescription
anti-depressants, and with fewer side effects. As with other treatments
for depression, it may take three- four weeks to take effect.
Recommended
dosage of St. Johns
Wort
The
dosage of St. Johns wort preparations vary greatly between
formulations, due to variability in the plant source and preparation
processes. The doses of St. John’s wort extract used in
clinical
trials generally range from 350 to 1800 mg daily (equivalent to 0.4 to
2.7 mg hypericin depending on the preparation). Even with
standarized preparations, the actual potency of the hypercin can vary
widely between brands and even between different batches of the same
brand. Choosing a high quality product from a reputable
company
is one way to minimize but not eliminate such variations.
As with other antidepressants, Hypericum should be taken for at least
four weeks before its effectiveness can be properly assessed.
Some
recommend a starting dose of standardized
capsules of St John's Wort is around
600-900mg daily and increasing to 900-1800mg per day if necessary.
Others recommend less. It is suggested that you research
carefully and start slowly to make sure you are taking the
dosage of
Saint John's Wart that is right for you. Also, speak
with a medical professional who supports natural remedies for
depression.
Information about the herb and supplement Saint john's
Wort
Hypericum
perforatum is a yellow-flowering, rhizomatous, perennial herb
indigenous to Europe, which has been introduced to the Americas and
grows wild in many meadows. The common name comes from the fact that it
traditionally flowers by and is harvested on St John's day, 24 June.
The genus name "hypericum" is derived from the Greek words hyper
(above) and eikon (picture) in reference to the traditional use of the
plant to ward off evil, by hanging plants over a picture in the house
during St John's day. The species name "perforatum" refers to the small
windows in the leaves, which can be seen when they are held against the
light.
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