Naturopathic health

St John's Wort Herbal Remedy

St John's Wort health benefits St John's Wort has a long tradition of being very effective in alleviating symptoms of nerve pain and was also traditionally used for nervous conditions associated with depression and hysteria. For this reason and because it is reputed to flower on mid-summer's day it is known as the sunshine herb. St John's wort can be used to treat: Mild to moderate depression Depressive symptoms linked to alcohol adiction Recurrent herpes Obssessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)* Neuralgia and Sciatica Chickenpox Shingles Psychological symptoms of menopause PreMenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Sleep disorders There is no research supporting the use of St John's wort for ADHD and as this is a modern illness it is not one where traditional use can be relied on. However, a recent study that tried to prove that SJW was ineffective in treating ADHD has been discredited as worthless due to the low quality of the herb used in the trials. Contraindications and side effects 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 When combined with certain antidepressants, St. John's wort may increase side effects such as nausea, anxiety, headache, and confusion. If depression is not adequately treated, it can become severe. Anyone who may have depression should see a doctor and/or qualified naturopathic practitioner Active compounds: Naphthodianthrones, hypericin and psuedohypericin. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds such as hyperforin. Glycosides including rutin; volatile oils, tannin, resin, pectin Dosage:* Based on a tincture with a herb to alcohol ratio of 1:3 take 1ml to 4ml three times a day Naturopaths treat the whole person not just the disease or condition. That's why you cannot use this site for diagnosis or treatment. The information we provide should not be treated as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. We recommend that you visit a qualified naturopath or find a GP who is sympathetic to a naturopathic approach. Click here for our full disclaimer.	Research home Herbal remedies Advice on buying herbal remedies
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