This is a versatile herb. It is becoming extremely well known for anti-depressant effects, and we are told that in Germany it is now the main prescription medicine against this disorder. It does, however, have other effects. It has potent anti-viral effects, particularly against herpes simplex and herpes zoster, the causative agents of cold sores and shingles. It also has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, particularly where nerve irritation is involved, and in combination with lomatium, another powerful anti-viral herb, has been known to take away the pain of shingles within hours, rather than months. One person we heard about lost the pain of sciatica (caused by inflammation of the sciatic nerve which leads to the leg) in under an hour, merely by taking a strong liquid extract of St. John’s Wort straight onto the tongue, where it can be absorbed immediately.

These effects, however, are not enough for this herb; it also has some antibacterial effects and can have powerful wound-healing effects when applied topically - it helps wounds to heal by its combination of anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory effects.

However, to get back to its main and best-known function: St. John’s Wort can have powerful anti-depressant effects. Its main active ingredient, as far as anti-depressant properties are concerned, is called hypericin and the standard content for extracts is 0.3% hypericin. At this concentration, at a dosage level of 300mg 3 times per day, it has been found to have effects as strong as drug-type MAO inhibitors in reducing the effects of monoamine oxidase (MAO) types A and B.

Monoamine oxidase reduces the amount of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, in the brain, which help to stabilise mood and therefore prevent depression. Any agent that reduces the effect of monoamine oxidase will therefore help to keep up the level of mood-elevating neurotransmitters.

St. John’s Wort produces these results without the unpleasant side effects of the drugs.

Controlled Studies

A number of double-blind controlled tests have been carried out, which showed statistically significant improvement in various symptoms, such as feelings of worthlessness, apathy, anxiety, insomnia, anorexia and depression. No significant side effects were observed.

Dosage

300mg of extract, standardised to 0.3% hypericin, is suggested 2-3 times per day. Best taken with meals to avoid gastric irritation.

Possible Side Effects

The most noticeable side effect of St. John’s Wort is an increase in skin sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. Sunlight should therefore be avoided.

St. John’s Wort should never be taken with anti-depressant drugs, particularly the MAO type. It is probably also best to avoid the amino acids L-phenylalanine and L-tyrosine. It should also not be taken with 5-hydroxytryptophan.

Certain foods are known to react badly with MAO inhibitors and St. John’s Wort. These are foods containing an amino acid called L-tyramine. The foods are cheeses, beer, wine, yeast etc. They should be avoided.

In fact, St. John’s Wort reacts unpredictably with numerous medications (for example it  can make the contraceptive pill ineffective). Accordingly, if you are on any medication from the doctor, take qualified medical advice first before taking St. John’s Wort.

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