What You Should Know About St Johns Wort

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What You Should Know About St Johns Wort

Filed under: Herb

By: Lee Dobbins

St Johns Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an herb that is often used to elevate mood. People can buy it without a prescription and use it for their alternative treatments of certain problems. It is a very popular herb, with many people taking it daily. If you are interested in learning more about St Johns Wort, take a look at this information and see if you think it is for you.

What To Use It For

The most common reason people use St Johns Wort is to treat depression. It is a herb that can help stimulate the areas of the brain that work with depression. Experts warn however that although it may be effective for mild depression, those with moderate or severe depression likely won't see any help from this herb alone.

However, the British Medical Journal ran an article in August of 1996 that analyzed 25 different studies which showed that St John's Wort relieved symptoms just as much as many of the drugs out there without causing the side effects associated with these drugs namely headache and vomiting.

Where You Can Get It

Most people can find St Johns Wort supplements in their local natural food stores. In addition, health food stores and supplement stores and even general merchandise stores are starting to carry these pills. You should use it as directed and be aware of any changes or side effects you have. If you have other medical issues, be sure to talk with your doctor before using any type of herb or over the counter medicine.

Cautionary Points

As with any herb or medicine, there can be side effects and use of St John's Wort can cause dry mouth, headache, fatigue, dizziness, anxiety or sexual dysfunction.

The problem with St Johns Wort is that scientists are not completely sure how it works with the human body. They don't know the complete composition or how it can help or potentially hurt those that use it.
In addition, if you take other medications you could be at risk for harm. St Johns Wort reacts with several different drugs and can be fatal when combined with them. So, be sure you let your doctor or pharmacist know you are taking this herbal supplement when you see them. It could really save your life when you discuss your herbal treatment strategies with a professional.

Lee Dobbins writes for Herbs and Home Remedies where you can learn more about herbs and natural remedies.