St. John's wort for treating depression

Is it possible to use St. John's wort, an herbal remedy, to treat depression? Millions of people around the world actually do. Some see St. John's wort as an alternative or natural treatment for depression.

The herb has been registered by the medicines regulatory body, the MHRA,  for sale in the UK as a traditional herbal medicine used to relieve the symptoms of slightly low mood and mild anxiety as well as symptoms of menopause, including hot flushes and night sweats. The registration is based purely on traditional usage - not based on clinical trials.

What is St. John's wort?

St. John's wort is a wild yellow flower. It has been used for medical purposes in parts of the world for thousands of years. Today, St. John's wort is continually being studied to try to validate its alleged mood-improving benefits.

More than 30 clinical studies have been conducted over the past 22 years to evaluate the effectiveness of St. John's wort. While the true benefits of St. John's wort are still being explored, if you do choose to use it, be sure to learn all you can and check with your doctor before taking it.

Is there scientific evidence that supports the use of St. John's wort for depression?

There is some scientific evidence that St. John's wort is helpful in treating mild to moderate depression. However, two large studies, one sponsored by the US National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), showed that the herb was no more effective than placebo in treating major depression of moderate severity. Studies of the herb for the treatment of major depression have had conflicting results.

How do I take St. John's wort?

Follow the directions on the packet making sure you read the information leaflet first.

What should I watch for if I take St. John's wort?

You should be alert for any of the following effects if you are taking St. John's wort:

• allergic reactions
• fatigue and restlessness with long-term use
• increased blood pressure
• increased sensitivity to the sun -- especially if you are fair-skinned and taking large doses
• stomach upsets

What precautions should I take with St. John's wort?

Herbal therapies are not recommended for pregnant women, children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems. In addition, some herbs have sedative or blood-thinning qualities. Consequently, they may interact dangerously with NSAIDs or other pain medications. Others may cause gastrointestinal upset if taken in large doses.

Research has shown that St. John's wort may reduce the effectiveness of several medicines, including birth control pills and some heart disease medications. Talk to your doctor about all the medications you are taking.

Always tell your doctor if you are taking St. John's wort or any other herbal product.

What other precautions should I take with herbal remedies?

Here are additional precautions you need to take to increase the safety of using herbal remedies:

• Discuss any medicines you use, including herbal products, with your doctor.
• If you experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, insomnia, diarrhoea, or skin rashes, stop taking the herbal product and notify your doctor.
• Avoid preparations made with more than one herb.
• Beware of commercial claims of what herbal products can do. Look for the MHRA Traditional Herbal Remedy logo on packets to ensure high quality standards.