(Medicinal Plants of The Northeast.
By: Sharon Barotz and Carrie Bilodeau)
Can St. John's wort be a solution for my Depression?
St. John's wort has been a plant popularly studied, especially in the last few years, however, there are still questions that remain unanswered. Studies still have not been able to prove exactly how St. John's wort works. When people who have depression seek the help from pharmaceuticals they will be prescribed a SSRI. As we stated earlier, an SSRI stands for “selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors”. These work by slowing the brain's absorption of serotonin and allow for better communication in the neurotransmitters. Serotonin is believed to be responsible for your reaction with certain emotions and moods. It is also believed to play a key role in your sexuality, body temperature, sleep, and even your appetite. “Initial biochemical studies reported that St. John's wort is only a weak inhibitor of monoamine oxidase-A and -B activity but that it inhibits the synaptosomal uptake of serotonin, dopamine, and noradreninaline (Norepinephrine) with approximately equal affinity.” (Veronika Butterweck) To understand what this is saying you must first understand what monoamine oxidase A and -B do.
Monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) is responsible for breaking down hormones such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. MAO-B is responsible for breaking down Phenethylamine and together MAO-A and MAO-B breakdown dopamine. If this study is showing that there is a slowing down of the serotonin by the synapse then this is acting like an SSRI. This study also shows that it inhibits MAO-A and -B which we just learned can lead to a decrease of the breakdown in certain hormones. Through many other studies performed on rats it was suggested that “St. John's wort is involved in the regulation of genes that control hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function.” (Veronika Butterweck) The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis functions as a major part of the body's neuroendocrine system. HPA axis helps to control and regulate our reactions to emotions, such as stress. It also helps to control processes that body makes on a daily bases, such as digestion, sexual function, immune system support, and how our body uses energy. It is important to also note that several studies “failedto support the efficiency of St. John's wort in severe depression. (Veronika Butterweck)
In these studies, other factors may be considered in the way these results came to be. For example, the studies may have needed to increase the dosages for those with severe depression; however, if you are one that suffers from severe depression you should consult a physician on any medication treatment.
What do I need to be careful with?
When taking herbal medication along with other herbs or prescription medication, you should always know what you are mixing. Some herbs are blood thinners and others are perfectly safe to take with something else. Just because they say “safe and natural” does not mean that they can never do you harm. The thing to be most careful about is prescription medication or over the counter drugs that are not herbs or natural. These medications are made up of several ingredients that should not be mixed with other medications or herbs. Some of these medications will not harm you while taking herbs but better safe than sorry when it comes to guessing. You never know what stress it could be putting on your body. Please remember that your body is smarter than you are. It can heal itself if you will provide it with proper rest, exercise, nutrition, and positive emotions. Our bodies are the most amazing machine that has or ever will exist, so don't underestimate it. A few herbs to watch out for are those whose names begin with “h” or “g”. In most cases these are blood thinners. You should never mix these herbs with other drugs and should always tell your healthcare professional when you are taking them.
How do I know how much to take?
The right dosage for herbal remedies is hard to estimate. Most of the bottles will direct you in how much to take and how many times a day to take it. If you are still unsure about your dosage in comparison to your body size, ask a healthcare professional. They will be able to tell you what to watch for. You can also do your own research. For example, vitamin E is sold in capsules of 1000 mg over the counter. Studies have shown that taking that much vitamin E in a vitamin plus the amount we intake in food a day could cause health related problems. So make sure to research on your own from creditable books, journals, and websites about the safe dosage of these medications. You can also us common sense. If you are not feeling better, feeling worst, or feelings a tad bit strange, stop taking the medication and seek help from a medical professional about the situation.
Healing from the Pain
“Millions of uninsured and under-insured Americans struggle to afford the medicines they need, even forgoing medically necessary drugs when prices are out of reach.”(CALPIRG) Those who suffer from depression should know that there is an other alternative medication out there that will help heal them from the pain. St. John's wort has been shown in several studies to aid in mild to moderate cases of depression and anxiety. St. John's wort, as well as any form a treatment, should be studied and researched before taking. It can be a wonderful treatment option for millions.
