st john's wort?

Question

does it actually help with anxiety and depression? How long does it take?..any side effects? also, is it really nature's prozac? Thanks guys!!

Answer 1

Depends who you ask. Several studies have shown it doesn't help people any more than a placebo. Other studies have shown that it works reasonably well. You could always try.

If you see results, they should happen within four weeks.

Side effects include increased sensitivity to sunlight, anxiety, dry mouth, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, headache, or sexual dysfunction.

It can interact undesirably with other medication like HIV medications, cancer medications, medications they give you when you have organ transplants, heart medications, anticoagulants, birth control pills, and other antidepressants.

I hope that helps. However, remember that I'm not a doctor (and I bet very few people on here giving medical advice are doctors) so the best course of action is to talk to your physician and see what he says.

Answer 2

It didnt work for me as I left treatment far too late for over the counter treatments!
It takes up to 4 weeks to build up to theraputic levels;

Side effcts
St. John's wort may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight. Other side effects can include anxiety, dry mouth, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, headache, or sexual dysfunction.
Research shows that St. John's wort interacts with some drugs. The herb affects the way the body processes or breaks down many drugs; in some cases, it may speed or slow a drug's breakdown. Drugs that can be affected include:
Indinavir and possibly other drugs used to control HIV infection
Irinotecan and possibly other drugs used to treat cancer
Cyclosporine, which prevents the body from rejecting transplanted organs
Digoxin, which strengthens heart muscle contractions
Warfarin and related anticoagulants
Birth control pills
Antidepressants
When combined with certain antidepressants, St. John's wort may increase side effects such as nausea, anxiety, headache, and confusion.
St. John's wort is not a proven therapy for depression. If depression is not adequately treated, it can become severe. Anyone who may have depression should see a health care provider. There are effective proven therapies available.
It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including St. John's wort. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care;

Answer 3

I took it for a few years when I was a teenager and it did seem to help me, although just like any other medicine (organic or not) it does not work for everyone. If I remember correctly, it took about four weeks to start working and I personally did not feel any side effects. I would try it if you haven't already; in my opinion organics are a better way to go.

Answer 4

I tried it, and it did nothing. Herbs are not regulated or sold in any standard way.

Try researching nutrition and eating better. Avoid sugar and see if that helps. Some people get hypoglycemia from having too much sugar and it can make depression much worse.

Answer 5

Kava Kava and Valerian root are also supplements with calming effects.These supplements will leave you feeling foggy, like half asleep.
In regards to helping with depression, you'd need a professionals help with that one.

Answer 6

Have a look at this wiki link, it might give you some information or help you find further research materials (see the recommended links at the bottom)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Johns_Wort