Does anyone take this. I want to start, I'm just a little scared to take it. I have never taken any herbal vitamins before. I really don't take anything. Are there any side effects I should know about?
2007-06-27 00:45:59 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Alternative Medicine
I tried it, and it didn't work for me. I got great results w SAM-e. I actually started taking it for joint pain, (it works for joint pain & depression) But I noticed it brightened my mood too.
2007-06-27 01:17:19 · answer #1 · answered by queenthesbian 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Before taking anything, herbs, prescriptions, etc., it is always wise to do the research into potential side effects. I've take St. Johns Wort for years with success and without any side effects. I take it mainly during the winter because not only do I suffer from depression, but I also have seasonal affective disorder (quite common in VT). When I start to feel myself getting to a low point, that is when I start taking it. I don't recall the recommended dosage, but I know it's usually taken three times each day. I only take it twice a day. In about two weeks, I find my moods are more stabilized and my depression doesn't take over. In the past, I've needed to take prescription antidepressants. Those really messed with my head. I do so much better with St. Johns Wort.
2007-06-27 06:53:20 · answer #2 · answered by Erin 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hi there
St.John's worth (Hypericum perferatum) is a very good medicinal herb for mild to moderate depression. It seems not to work for severe depression.
St John's wort can have some mild potential side effects like, sensitivity to sunlight, upset stomach, skin rash, fatigue, restlessness and headache.
If you are using any pharmaceutical drugs, especially for depression you should not use St. John's wort as it can interact with other drugs. So if you are on any pharmaceutical drugs I would recommend seeing your doctor before starting using St.John's wort.
You can find St. John's wort in many forms like capsules, tinctures, teas, and oil-based creams. To be sure of the quality of the product it should contain 0.3% hypercin which is the active ingreadent in St.John's wort. Since herbal supplements are not regulated in the USA it is important to seek reputable brands.
Personally I have been using St.John's worth off and on with very good results.
I realy hope this helps and that you start to feel better.
2007-06-27 08:01:40 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Better read this article before trying out this medicine.
http://www.herbmed.org/Herbs/Herb121.htm
Hypericum perforatum is used in treating a wide range of disorders, including pulmonary complaints, bladder problems, diarrhea and nervous depression. It is also very effectual in treating bed wetting in children. It has a sedative and pain reducing effect, it is especially regarded as an herb to use where there are menopausal changes triggering irritability and anxiety. In addition to neuralgic pain, it will ease fibrosistis, sciatica and rheumatic pain. The oil extract of the plant can be taken for stomach ache, colic, intestinal problems, and as an expectorant for the congestion in the lungs. Externally, a medicinal infusion of the flowers in olive oil is applied to wounds, sores, burns, ulcers, swellings, cramps, rheumatism, tumors, caked breasts, and other skin problems. It is also valued in the treatment of sunburn and as a cosmetic preparation to the skin. Persons with fair skin should avoid exposure to strong sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light, such as tanning beds, while taking St. John's Wort. These individuals may suffer a dermatitis, severe burning, and possibly blistering of the skin. The severity of these effects will depend on the amount of the plant consumed and the length of exposure to sunlight.
For depression the usual dose is 300 mg 3 times a day. Timed release capsules are now on the market as well. I find it easier to only have to remember to take it once a day. Effects should be felt within a few weeks.
"Medicinal" tea: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over l-2 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb and steep for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
Oil: Fill a pint jar loosely with dried herb, poor olive oil to top, seal tightly and allow to infuse for 4 to 5 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.
2007-06-27 04:47:14 · answer #4 · answered by amembal4444 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I took St. John's Wort for many years with no side effects of any kind and it did help me tremendously, and was much better for me then prescription drugs, I just felt normal again but not drugged or anything like that. I recommend it, just don't over do exposure to the sun, as you can burn easier especially if your inclined to. Best wishes, Patricia f
2007-06-27 02:01:32 · answer #5 · answered by patricia f 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are actually a lot of problems with SJW. It can cause a really weird reaction like a deep sunburn in some people and really mess with other medications. Birth control pills, antivirals, you name it.
And there's debate about whether it even works or not. I've read studies saying it works for some people and other studies saying it doesn't work at all.
I agree with the other poster. I much prefer SAM-e.
2007-06-27 02:06:53 · answer #6 · answered by Professor of Herbs 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You should be careful before taking St. John's wart. It can interfere with important heart medicaitons that you might be taking. Talk to your doctor about the medicaitons you are taking before taking St. John's wart.
2007-06-27 02:14:33 · answer #7 · answered by RWYN 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i do it's helps my mood a little cuz I'm bipolar no side affects it just enhances your mood
2007-06-27 01:09:20 · answer #8 · answered by Jade|♥| 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋