Alternative Therapies: Herbal Remedies

Although medical technology improves every day, many consumers are concerned about the risks of taking prescription antidepressants or may feel their condition is not severe enough to warrant a prescription. It is vital that those who believe they may be suffering from depression visit their doctor for a proper diagnosis and to discuss the best treatment options available. If you decide to pursue taking herbal supplements, there are several important things to consider.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is the most popular herbal remedy used for treating depression. Properly known as Hypericum perforatum, St. John’s Wort has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, from infections to depression.

How St. John’s Wort treats depression and which parts of the plant aid in this process is not well understood by scientists. Some scientists believe the plant works similarly to SSRIs by affecting serotonin uptake, while other scientists propose different theories. However, it is known that while the plant has generally been effective in treating mild depression, it has little effect on patients suffering from severe mental illness. If you are experiencing major depression, including suicidal thoughts, and your general ability to function is impaired, St. John’s Wort is not for you.

It is also important to remember that St. John’s Wort’s being a natural remedy does not make it safer or more effective. Taking St. John’s Wort may interfere with other medications that you are on and pose potentially dangerous side effects. The plant may interfere with certain cancer treatment drugs or HIV treatments. Like any medicine, there is also the potential for side effects, including dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.

Because St. John’s Wort is not approved or regulated by the FDA, there is no guarantee the composition will be the same from product to product. One dosage of St. John’s Wort may vary dramatically from a dosage of a different brand. Also, since the drug is not regulated, consumers cannot be confident that they are receiving a product grown under quality conditions.

Proponents of St. John’s Wort advocate the plant as a remedy for people with mild depression. The best candidates for using the plant would have mild depression and would not have a history of family depression or suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Since the plant is available at most drug stores and grocery chains, many people find considerable appeal in its lower price.

Discuss your options with your doctor before taking any medication, even an herbal remedy such as St. John’s Wort.