|
| |
Other names:
Hypericum, Aaron’s beard, Rose of Sharon
What it is supposed to do:
Act as an antidepressant and tranquilizer. It has also been used to promote
wound healing.
How it is supposed to work:
 | It is thought to inhibit the uptake of neurotransmitters in the brain. |
| Extracts of the plant have been shown to be active against some bacteria. |
Toxic effects:
| Few adverse effects. |
| Can cause gastrointestinal upset, itching of the skin, restlessness,
confusion and sensitivity of the skin and eye. |
Does it work?
St John’s Wort has been found to be more effective than placebo in
treating mild to moderate depression in some, but not in all cases.
Other information:
Should not be used in severe depression or in patients who have suicidal
thoughts
Should also not be used together with other antidepressants. Can also
interfere with the blood levels of other medications including coumadin,
digoxin, theophylline and cyclosporin.
References:
- Linde K., Ramirez G, Mulrow CD et al. St John’s Wort for clinical
depression – an overview and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
British Medical Journal 1996;313:253.
- Effect of Hypericum perforatum (St John’s Wort) in major depressive
disorder: a randomized controlled trial. Hypericum Depression Trial Study
Group. JAMA 2002;287:1807-1814.
|
