How does St John's Wort affect Our Mood?

What is St John's Wort?

St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a flowering plant native to Europe, known for its bright yellow flowers. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, primarily for mental health conditions. Today, it is widely recognized for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly in managing mood disorders.

Benefits of St John's Wort in Regard to Mood

St John's Wort is primarily known for its mood-enhancing properties:

Natural Antidepressant: It is commonly used as a natural treatment for mild to moderate depression, with numerous studies supporting its efficacy.
Mood Regulation: The active compounds in St John's Wort, such as hyperforin and hypericin, are believed to positively affect neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation, like serotonin and dopamine.
Anxiety and Stress Relief: Alongside its antidepressant properties, it is also known to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress, contributing to overall mood improvement.

Use of St John's Wort

St John's Wort can be taken in several forms:

Capsules and Tablets: Often preferred for their convenience and precise dosing.
Tea: A traditional method of consumption, offering a more gradual effect.
Liquid Extracts: Can be used for adjustable dosing.

Side Effects of St John's Wort

While St John's Wort is generally well-tolerated, it does have potential side effects:

Photosensitivity, leading to skin irritation when exposed to sunlight.
Possible interactions with other medications, including antidepressants, birth control pills, and blood thinners.
Gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, and dizziness in some cases.

Costs of St John's Wort

The cost of St John's Wort varies based on the form and brand:

Over-the-counter supplements are generally affordable.
Prices can vary for different formulations, such as capsules, teas, or tinctures.

Alternatives to St John's Wort

If looking for alternatives, consider:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil and known for their mood-stabilizing effects.
SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine): A naturally occurring compound that has been used to treat depression.
Valerian Root: Often used for its calming effects, particularly in managing anxiety and sleep disorders.

FAQ

How long does it take for St John's Wort to work? It may take several weeks to notice an improvement in mood.

Can St John's Wort be taken with prescription antidepressants? It should not be combined with prescription antidepressants without medical supervision due to the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Is St John's Wort safe for long-term use? Consult a healthcare provider for advice on long-term use, as extended use may require monitoring for side effects.

Can everyone use St John's Wort? Individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications should consult a healthcare provider before using St John's Wort.

St John's Wort offers a natural option for mood enhancement and managing mild to moderate depressive symptoms. However, its use should be considered carefully, especially regarding interactions with other medications and existing health conditions. Consulting with healthcare professionals is crucial for safe and effective use.

Research and references for St John's Wort in regards to Mood:

Efficacy in Treating Depression:

Cui, Y. H., & Zheng, Y. (2016). A meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of St John's wort extract in depression therapy in comparison with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in adults. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 12, 1715-1723. This meta-analysis compares the efficacy of St John's Wort with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in treating adults with depression.

Active Compounds and Mood Regulation:

Müller, W. E. (2003). Current St John's wort research from mode of action to clinical efficacy. Pharmacological Research, 47(2), 101-109. This paper discusses the mode of action of St John's Wort, focusing on its active compounds and their impact on neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.

Anxiety and Stress Relief:

Apaydin, E. A., Maher, A. R., Shanman, R., Booth, M. S., Miles, J. N. V., Sorbero, M. E., & Hempel, S. (2016). A systematic review of St. John's wort for major depressive disorder. Systematic Reviews, 5(1), 148. This systematic review includes discussion on the effects of St John's Wort on anxiety and stress.

Side Effects and Drug Interactions:

Borrelli, F., & Izzo, A. A. (2009). Herb-drug interactions with St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum): an update on clinical observations. The AAPS Journal, 11(4), 710-727. This review provides detailed information on the side effects and potential drug interactions of St John's Wort.

Please note, while these references provide a scientific basis for the claims made about St John's Wort, ongoing research may offer new insights, and it's always recommended to consult current scientific literature for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, consulting with healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement, especially for those who are pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications, is essential.