When you have depression, you may be looking for ways to reignite your vigour. Have you tried St. John’s Wort? According to a new study published in Natural Standard, the perennial herb may be a suitable remedy for depression. In fact, it found that the herb may be a more affordable alternative to antidepressant medication.
What is St. John’s Wort?
Formally known as hypericum perforatum, St. John’s Wort is a yellow flower that has been used for eons to treat mild depression. It’s all down to the herb’s chemical compounds, which may stop the brain’s nerve cells from taking into much serotonin.
New research: St. John’s Wort for Depression
Over the years, numerous studies have found that St. John’s Wort may be more effective than antidepressants and placebos. However, it hasn’t been shown to be effective in treating melancholic (biological) depression. New research has found that St. John’s Wort may be as effective as antidepressants, with fewer side effects. The study’s authors say that given the increase in health and medication costs, the discovery may help many people who have mild-to-moderate major depression, lasting one to three months. The results found that the plant could be the most beneficial treatment of depression. In fact, it could save $359.66 when compared to the antidepressant venlafaxine, or $202.56 per person when compared to the antidepressant sertraline.
Should You Make the Switch?
While the study may be welcomed news for people with depression, taking yourself off medication can be very risky. That’s why it’s important to talk about your options with your health care professional and ensure you have assistance should you decide to come off antidepressants. A survey conducted by the Black Dog Institute also found that St. John’s Wort was less effective than most antidepressants, for people who had clinical depression. However, if you do decide to seek other depression treatments, there are many complementary therapies that may help. Counselling, acupuncture, massage, yoga, energy healing, meditation, life coaching and aromatherapy are just some therapies that may be beneficial.
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