Generalized anxiety disorder affects approximately 40 million adults over the age of 18 in the United States, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Over half of those suffering from this condition will experience their first anxiety attack around the age of 21. Most doctors will prescribe medications such as antidepressants and benzodiazepines to treat this condition, however, when used as an alternative treatment, St. John's wort may ease symptoms associated with this condition. Always talk to a health care professional before using herbs to treat any health condition.
Symptoms
Symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder can vary in combination and severity, according to MayoClinic.com. Some common symptoms include fatigue, constant worry, irritability, sleep problems or insomnia, stress, muscle aches, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or nausea. In addition, this condition may lead to ongoing depression.
Identification
St. John's wort has been used for many years to treat fevers, headaches, gout, kidney disorders and nervous disorders such as anxiety. Pseudohypericin and hypericin are the compounds found in the flowers and leaves of St. John's wort that scientists once believed were responsible for the herb's medicinal effects; however, new research suggests that those components may not contribute to the medicinal effects, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Further studies are being conducted on the herb's flavonoids and essential oils to make a determination as to the medicinal benefits, if any.
Uses
St. John's wort is available in the form of teas, tablets, tinctures and powders. To use this herb as an alternative treatment for mood disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking the dry herb in capsule or tablet form in doses of 300mg up to three times per day with meals. If you choose to make an herbal tea using this herb, pour 1 cup of boiling water over no more than 4 tsp. of the dried herb and allow it to steep for 10 minutes. Drink the tea three times per day. St. John's wort liquid extract can be taken in doses 40 to 60 drops up to two times per day.
Possible Interactions
St. John's wort may decrease the effectiveness of certain medications such as antidepressants, cough medicines, antihistamines, birth control medications, HIV medications, sedatives and triptans, to name a few. Due to the variety of medications that this herb may interact with, it is strongly recommended that you speak with your medical provider before using St. John's wort.
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