St. John’s Wort Quick Facts
Scientific Name: Hypericum perforatum
Family: Hypericaceae
Origin: Europe and Asia
Plant Type: Flowering, Perennial
Health Benefits: Supports Mental Wellness, Women’s Health, and Healthy Skin
History of St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort has been used throughout history not just for its health benefits but also for its mystical properties. In ancient Greece, people hung the plant over religious icons to ward off evil spirits. Greek herbalists also found it helpful for treating cuts, burns, infections, and even snakebites.
This belief in its mystical power carried over to early American settlers, who placed it in door wreaths to keep unfriendly spirits away. They also believed it could induce a confession from those suspected of witchcraft if placed in their mouths. Today, while the superstitions have faded, the plant is recognized for its mood-enhancing properties due to its nutritional components.
St. John’s Wort and Depression
St. John’s wort has gained attention for its potential to alleviate symptoms of depression. Depression often manifests as a persistent and profound sense of unhappiness, which can disrupt sleep, appetite, energy levels, cognitive functions, and even immune health. This condition usually stems from a chemical imbalance in the brain.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for depression and work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. In contrast, St. John’s wort inhibits the reuptake of various neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, making these chemicals more available to the brain.
Around 30 international studies have shown that St. John’s wort can be more effective than a placebo for those with mild to moderate depression. However, its efficacy for severe depression is still debated. Many European doctors recommend it for mild to moderate depression, and it’s also popular in North America as a natural remedy.
St. John’s Wort and PMS
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects over 80% of American women, with symptoms ranging from headaches and bloating to fatigue. Severe symptoms can develop into premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which includes mood swings, anxiety, and aggression.
One study found that St. John’s wort could help alleviate the physical and behavioral symptoms of PMS, although severe symptoms like anxiety and depression might remain unchanged. More research is needed to confirm if long-term supplementation is effective for PMS or PMDD.
St. John’s Wort and Menopause
Menopause, typically occurring between the ages of 48 to 55, brings about a decrease in reproductive hormones, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disruptions, mood swings, and reduced libido.
St. John’s wort has been reported to reduce the severity, frequency, and duration of hot flashes. Women aged 43 to 65 also noted improvements in their sexual well-being after taking St. John’s wort extract for eight weeks.
Other Benefits of St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort has been studied for its effects on anxiety, stress, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Its antioxidant properties may provide neuroprotective benefits.
In intensive care units, St. John’s wort has been observed to aid in wound healing, possibly due to its soothing properties and resistance to harmful organisms, which can also promote healthy skin.
St. John’s Wort Supplements and Tea
St. John’s wort is available in various forms, including pills, powders, and liquids. One popular way to enjoy it is by making tea with the fresh flowers. Simply steep a handful of flowers in hot water for about four minutes, then strain.
A recommended supplement combining St. John’s wort with other natural remedies includes products like Stress Relief, which contains lithium orotate, Mucuna pruriens with 15% L-dopa, Rhodiola rosea, Bacopa monnieri, and other herbs.
St. John’s Wort Side Effects and Precautions
While generally safe, St. John’s wort can interact with certain medications, potentially reducing the effectiveness of birth control pills, heart medications, and some HIV and cancer treatments. Side effects are rare but can include dry mouth, upset stomach, heightened sensitivity to light, and increased anxiety. Pregnant or nursing women and children should avoid using it unless advised by a healthcare provider.
Alternative Approaches to Mental Health
Supporting mental wellness can be achieved through various natural methods. Eating a diet rich in whole, organic, and nutritious foods can positively impact mental health. Regular exercise like yoga or walking, adequate sleep, and daily meditation can significantly improve physical and mental well-being by reducing anxiety, boosting mood, and enhancing cognitive clarity.