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St. John's Wort for Treating Depression



What is a dietary supplement?

According to the FDA, dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids. They come in the form of pills, liquids, or powders, and are intended to be taken to supplement the diet.  Dietary supplements are not regulated the same way as drug products.

What is St. John's wort?

The St. John's wort plant has yellow flowers and is considered to be a weed throughout most of the United States. It has been used for medical purposes in other 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.

Many studies have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of St. John's wort. Some studies have suggested benefit, but other studies have not. 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. St. John's wort can interact with other medicines or supplements you may be taking and may have side effects.  

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 may be helpful in treating minor depression, but the benefit seems similar to that of antidepressants. However, two large studies, one sponsored by the 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. NCCAM is studying the use of St. John's wort in a wider spectrum of mood disorders, including minor depression.

How do I take St. John's wort?

St. John's wort is most often taken in liquid or pill form. The dried herb may also be used as a tea.

The most common dose used in studies has been 300 mg, three times a day. Preparations in the U.S. have varied amounts of active ingredient in them. So be careful to note how much you're getting in your tablets.

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

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