Does St. Johns Wort really help with depression?

Question

I bought some today, hoping it will help boost my mood. Anyone use it??

Answer 1

Yes, I've used it along with several other people I know. It works on some people and not on others - like all herbs.

5-HTP is another one that helps with depression (seratonin levels). I use this and it works better for me than St. John's Wort. It is found at GNC too.

Answer 2

A clinical study states that after a 4-week trial, people taking St. John's Wort for MILD depression really did show a larger decrease in symptoms than the placebo group. The clinical information looks promising for this herb.

Although St. John's Wort has been used since Greek and Roman times, it is not perfectly safe, it has a string of possible side effects. The list of side effects is actually longer than the list of things it cures; people using St. John's Wort are at risk of allergic reactions, photosensitivity, gastrointestinal irritation, dry mouth, tiredness and sleep disturbances.

Also, in combination with other antidepressants, there is a serious risk of interactions; St. John's Wort causes inhibited serotonin uptake, the same way that common antidepressants battle the symptoms of depression.

Here's a great site that gives some pretty straight forward advice on dietary supplements (the link is for St John's Wort):
http://www.extension.iastate.edu/nutrition/supplements/st._johns_wort.php

Good luck, and if your depression isn't just mild, you should really talk to a health care professional. There are many options available to you! Take care!

Answer 3

Herbal experts give it a hi -5. I haven't used it. But I take a small amount of RX meds daily to help my depression. All my life I struggled until I saw the right doctor and a psychiatrist. Best thing I ever did. Also, eating right changed my whole life. I'm not tired all the time anymore. I cut out most of the carbs (cravings go away after just a few days) and most of the sugar. I drink coffee to boost my energy. I garden every day. No more fast food. I don't want it anymore because now healthy food is all I crave. I have a lot more energy and I've lost 7 punds without being hungry. At first, I gave myself permission to eat anything I want for one day each week. Now I don't even think about doing that. Food that is good for you tastes so much better. Anyway, it all has to do with relieving the depression.