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St. John’s Wort - What is it?
St. John’s Wort or Hypericum Perforatum as
it is otherwise known as, has been a reliable herbal supplement
for patients suffering from mild to severe clinical depression.
Highly regarded in Europe, mostly Germany, St. John's Wort
has been prescribed as one of the most potent antidepressants
over many of the more severe types of drugs, including Prozac.
It has been used to treat nervousness and anxiety disorders
as well as other mental illnesses. It can also be used for
sleep disorders, inflammation of the skin and bacterial infections.
St. John’s Wort - How Does It Work?
During trials and testing, Hypericin, Pseudohypericin
and Xanthones were named as active ingredients in St. John’s
Wart. Hypericin can be found in most anti-depressants on the
market today for people that are labeled depressed or emotionally
disturbed. The power of Hypericin lies in its ability to increase
the blood flow to tissue that is under duress. Hypericin also
aids in the elevation of other biochemical’s such as
dopamine and serotonin to reduce abnormal adrenal activity
found in depression.
St. John’s Wort is available in several forms including
capsules, teas, oils and tinctures. Although there are some
companies that manufacture St. John’s Wort using different
additives, it is suggested that you take the supplement that
uses both the flower and leaves for maximum benefit.
St. John’s Wort - What Are The Benefits From
St. John's Wort?
Here are other benefits from St. John’s Wort:
• Improves overall well being in patients suffering
from CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)
• Reduces size of tumors (benign and malignant).
• Aids in bladder trouble and urine suppression. In
some cases it actually can increase the flow of urine.
• Removes tumors and boils.
• Blood cleansing and purifying effects.
• Treats Internal Bleeding
St. John’s Wort - What Are Some Of The Side
Effects?
St. John’s Wort has few side effects that the
user can experience namely photosensitivity. Photosensitivity
occurs when Hypericin is assimilated into the intestines and
concentrates in certain areas of the skin. Allergic reactions
occur when exposed skin is introduced into natural sunlight.
This type of exposure can cause tissue damage and has resulted
in death in a few cases. It is strongly recommended to remain
out of the sunlight during the period St. John’s Wort
is used. As with any herbal or supplement, you should consult
a physician before taking it.
Do not take St. John’s Wort if you are taking any antidepressant
drugs, MAO Inhibitors, SSRI’s, Tricylics and the drugs
Tramadol or Imitrex.
Daily Recommended Dosage: Take 1 300mg capsule 3 times a day.
Consult a physician and discontinue usage if any other side
effects occur.
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Articles > What Does St. Johns Wort Do?
