Network Chiropractic     Dr. Jordan L. Michels

St. John’s Wort as an Antidepressant

Hypericum perforatum or St. John’s Wort grows wild throughout Oregon and many parts of the world. It is often seen growing along the road especially in the local mountains. It blooms profusely in June. It is named for John the Baptist because it blooms during his traditional birthday of June 24^th. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in full sun. The leaves and flowers contain intensely colored orange-yellow pigments. The plant is sometimes symbolically considered to be concentrated sunshine.

The use of St. John’s Wort as a medicinal herb goes back at least 2,400 years. It was commonly prescribed by the father of medicine, Hippocrates. Recent scientific studies show it to be very effective against depression. In Germany where herbal medicine is very widespread and prescribed by doctors, St. John’s Wort is the most widely prescribed treatment for depression (25 times more than Prozac).

St. John’s Wort like many herbs contains a variety of bio-active compounds including hypericins and flavinoids. Usually an extract of the flowers and leaves are used and standardized to one easily measured compound called hypericin. Although St. John’s Wort’s exact mechanism of action is not understood, its various constituents seem to have a synergistic effect of boosting various important neuro-transmitters in the brain.

In addition to depression, St. John’s Wort is used for anxiety, sleep disorders, and seasonal affective disorders. In addition it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-viral properties. Although it has not been researched, its effect on brain chemistry suggest that St. John’s Wort may also be useful for substance dependencies, addictions, and for obsessive-compulsive disorders. Externally an oil made from St. John’s Wort has traditionally been used for burns and inflammation.

Like many herbs St. John’s Wort has several advantages over isolated or synthesized chemicals. the combined action of various natural substances causes less side effects, because the response is not due to a single strong action. Since herbs cannot be patented they also usually cost considerably less than their prescription counterparts.

Side effects are rare and mild. Photosensitivity has been seen in grazing animals and in humans taking large intravenous doses. Occasional stomach upset and nausea, and skin rash have been observed. Currently it is not recommended for use during pregnancy or in conjunction with synthetic antidepressants.

Daily dosages vary between 0.2-3.0 mg total hypericin. Positive effects are usually seen within 2 to 6 weeks. Many formulas are standardized to 0.3% hypericin. Most studies are based on taking a 300mg three times a day. Smaller doses might be useful for maintenance or improved well being in individuals with minor symptoms.