St. John’s wort, also known as St. John’s wort herb, is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries to treat depression and other conditions of the body.
Depression affects more than 300 million people worldwide. Although many medications treat depression effectively, some people prefer to use natural or alternative remedies.St. John’s wort, also known as St. John’s wort herb, is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries to treat depression and other conditions of the body.
Depression affects more than 300 million people worldwide. Although many medications treat depression effectively, some people prefer to use natural or alternative remedies.
A review of the results of 29 international studies concluded that St John’s Wort may be as effective as standard prescription antidepressants for depression while causing fewer side effects than antidepressants.
St John’s Wort is used to reduce symptoms of mild anxiety based solely on traditional use. St John’s Wort is believed to work by reducing the rate at which the brain uses up serotonin – the happiness hormone.
Research shows that St. John’s wort:
- Reduces symptoms similarly to prescription antidepressants.
- Reduces symptoms of mild and moderate depression more than placebo.
- Appears to cause fewer side effects than prescription antidepressants.
- Does not appear to reduce sexual desire, a common side effect of antidepressants.