St. Johns Wort – the Natural Depression Treatment
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St. Johns Wort (Hypericum Perforatum) is also known as Klamath Weed or Tipton’s Weed. There have been at least 370 different species of this wonder plant, in the plant genus, Hypericum discovered to date. St. Johns wort thrives in subtropical areas of the world. These include Asia Minor, North America, India, Russia, China and Europe.
This perennial herb flowers yellow and is traditionally harvested on June 24. This is where it got its name; June 24 is St John’s day. St. Johns Wort is easy to identify. The yellow flowers are normally about twenty millimeters across and are found late in the Spring to early summer. If you smash the seeds or yellow flowers you will discover a purple/red colored liquid.
St. John’s Wort is not all glamour and glory. Many countries consider it to be a noxious pest of a plant. When it is consumed by livestock it can cause many problems from depression of the nervous system to photosensitization. It can even cause death among precious ranging animals.
The Cochrane Review conducts research on medicine and gives reports based on evidence. It claims that St. Johns Wort is similar to antidepressants that exist on the market, today. It is very effective for treating both depression and major depression. The beauty of this wonder herb is that compared to antidepressants that are manufactured today it has half the side effects. Compared to older, trycyclic, antidepressants it has 5 times fewer side effects. To me thats a major event. One of the single largest problems with prescriptions is the overwhelming amount of side effects they cause.
Some countries, such as Germany, often prescribe St. Johns Wort to treat depression symptoms. It is dosed out in several ways including: capsule, tablet, tincture and tea (loose or teabag) forms. It works wonderfully in children and is very cost effective. The cost of medicine in North America has people constantly seeking out a cheaper alternative and St. Johns Wort is often the solution.
The only type of depression that St. Johns Wort is not effective in, according to studies, is dysthymia. Dysthymia is termed as chronic depression which is not as severe as major depression or depression.
Although St. Johns Wort has been found to be most effective in treating depression there are other ailments that it is often used for. Hyperforin is a chemical in the plant that is thought to help treat alcoholism. It is also used to holistically treat ADHD by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine. The studies on these two uses of St. Johns Wort have not been thorough nor conclusive. Check with your local herbalist to see if they have any recommendations. You can often combine St. Johns Wort with other herbs to achieve the results you are looking for.
I have personal experience with St. Johns Wort. A few years back I was in a low period. I was overwhelmed and very sad. I tried St. Johns Wort and I was borderline giddy. In the end I had to actually cut my dose back because I was in too good of a mood.
About the author
Dee Braun ~ I am a Certified Aromatherapist, Reiki Master, Holistic Health Practitioner, Master Herbalist, Dr. of Reflexology and single mom who is dedicated to helping others any way I can. One way I choose to help is by offering information on the benefits and uses of natural healing methods.One of my all-time favorite quotes is:I wanted to change the world, so I got up one morning and looked in the mirror. That one looking back said: "There is not much time left. The earth is wracked with pain. Children are starving. Nations remain divided by mistrust and hatred. Everywhere the air and water have been fouled almost beyond help. Do something!" ~Michael Jackson.I also teach Aromatherapy, Reflexology and Color/Crystal Therapy at http://www.alternativehealingacademy.com/
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