St. John's wort for depression

Depression is a common and serious mood disorder, with nearly 7% of U.S. adults reporting at least one episode major depression in the past year. The adverse effects associated antidepressants cause many patients to turn alternative treatments like St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum). This yellow-flowering plant most popular supplements promoted for depression, menopause symptoms, disorders. blooms June around time feast John Baptist, thereby earning its name. wild-growing has been used centuries traditional medicine treat variety conditions, including kidney lung ailments, insomnia, aid wound healing. Several active components found leaves flowers may be responsible wort's healing properties. Many pharmacologic activities appear attributable hypericin, hyperforin, several flavonoids. These organic compounds act improve regulate through inhibition uptake neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline. leads downregulation beta-adrenergic receptors an upregulation serotonin 5-HT(2) receptors. By causing changes neurotransmitter concentrations implicated acts on messengers brain, similarly antidepressants. A 2016 in-depth analysis Systematic Reviews evaluated efficacy safety treatment depressive order. researchers examined 35 studies 6,993 prescribed hypericum extract 0.3% hypericin 1% 4% hyperforin. showed clinical significance appeared more effective compared placebo. However, it unclear if this holds true severe or periods longer than 12 weeks. 2017 review Journal Affective Disorders detailed data from 27 trials 3,808 that SSRIs. Results indicated improved symptoms was as standard antidepressant medications mild moderate depression. authors also lower dropout rate using over Lack research limited study length, poor events mean findings both should interpreted caution. grows wild, chopped powdered forms dried herb are available capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, teas, all standardized contain hypericin. Because anti-inflammatory properties, oil-based topical lotions various skin conditions well wounds, bruises, muscle pain. For disorders tolerated 5% hyperforin doses 300 mg three times daily, meals. menopause, taken daily 3 4 months. Overall, considered safe, few reported minor uncommon effects, upset stomach, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, sexual dysfunction, sensitivity sunlight when large doses. stimulant, worsen feelings anxiety some people. Counsel limits effectiveness prescription medicines, antidepressants, birth control pills, cyclosporine, digoxin, oxycodone, among others. Caution pregnant breastfeeding there insufficient during pregnancy lactation, cannot recommended. can become illness effective, professional help not sought. Encourage speak their health care provider attempt own.