St. John’s Wort

Beat the blues with St. John’s Wort (Hypericum Perferatum). Studies have shown that St. John’s Wort is beneficial in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depressive illness in adults. Hyericin and hyperforin chemicals found in the plant have been shown to help regulate mood.

According to the MayoClinic.com, “St. John’s Wort has been extensively studied in Europe over the last two decades, with more recent research in the United States.” There are over 40 clinical trails that show it is effective in the treatment of depression. Short-term studies (1-3 months) suggest that St. John’s Wort is more effective than the placebo (sugar pill), and equally effective as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression.

Menopausal Relief

Positive Mood

HPLC Tested for potency and purity

Comparisons to the more commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, such as Fluoxetine (Prozac®) or Sertraline (Zoloft®), are more limited. However, other data suggest that St. John’s Wort may be just as effective as SSRIs with fewer side effects. Safety concerns exist as with most conventional and complementary therapies.”

St. John’s Wort is being evaluated for treatment of HIV/AIDS and tested for anti-viral properties. While it is presumed that Hypericum administered to HIV patients along with other compounds might prevent further spread of the virus, it has not been proven. Supplementation with St. John’s Wort will interfere with present HIV drugs. Medical experts recommend against the usage of St. John’s Wort along with conventional HIV drugs.

Dr. Oz has an article on his website touting St. John’s Wort as one of the best natural anti-depressants http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/best-natural-anti-depressants

What kind of results can I expect from supplementing with St. John’s Wort?

Improved mood in anyone with mild-to-moderate depression

Reduced Nerve Pain (neuropathy)

May Help with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Early evidence shows that St. John’s Wort may help reduce physical symptoms of somatoform disorders

May ease symptoms of PMS and hot flashes

May ease anxiety

May relieve symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Who Should Supplement with St. John’s Wort?

People suffering with mild-to-moderate depression may consider using St. John’s Wort over traditional medicines like Prozac® or Zoloft® for similar benefits with fewer side effects. Individuals with physical symptoms of somatoform disorder. Otherwise healthy adults, suffering from symptoms of anxiety, OCD, PMS, SAD, or other social phobias may also benefit from supplementing with St. John’s Wort. St. John’s Wort may reduce the symptoms of menopause when taken in conjunction with Black Cohosh.

What dosage should I take?

Take one serving (2 capsules 300mg) up to three times daily or as recommended by a physician. Do not exceed six servings in a 24-hour period. To avoid greater potential for side effects, it is not recommended to exceed 3 months continual use.

What side effects can I expect?

Most people can tolerate St. John’s Wort for one to three months without experiencing any adverse health reactions. However rare side effects may include fatigue, stomach pain, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, dizziness, headache, and dry mouth. According to MayoClinic.com, “Recent studies suggest that side effects occur in one to three percent of patients, and adverse events may be similar to placebo.” MayoClinic.com also reports, “It has been reported that St. John’s Wort may cause psychiatric symptoms such as suicidal and homicidal thoughts.

WARNING

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. This product is intended for adults only. Not for use for anyone under 18 years of age, pregnant or nursing women. If you have had a medical condition or are currently using prescription drugs consult your physician before using this product. Avoid this product if you have any previous history of medical dysfunction or disease including but not limited to kidney disease. Discontinue use and consult your doctor if any adverse reactions occur.

As with any dietary supplement, we recommend that you consult a physician before use.

“These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. ALWAYS consult your physician before taking supplements.”