Depression is a medical illness that involves an imbalance of a person's brain chemistry that affects the person's moods in a persistent way. Symptoms of depression can include insomnia, irritability and frustration, feelings of unhappiness, slowed thinking and changes in appetite. According to Jack Challem and Melvyn Webach, authors of "The Food-Mood Solution," depression can be treated with St. John's wort. St. John's wort is a perennial herb native to Europe once used by ancient Greeks to treat nervous disorders. In modern times, St. John's wort is an alternative option for treating mild to moderate depression. Consult your doctor before taking any alternative supplement.
Step 1
Purchase standardized St. John's wort at your local health food store. Standardized capsules usually contain 0.3 percent to 0.5 percent of hyperforin, the main active phytochemical in St. John's wort, per 300 mg.
Step 2
Take 300 mg of St. John's wort, three times a day with meals. Take this dosage for one month. Check with your doctor to make sure this dosage is right for you.
Step 3
Double the dosage of St. John's wort to 600 mg if the symptoms of depression have not improved after one month for three weeks. Check with your doctor whenever you change your dosage and if symptoms still persist.
References
- "Mosby's Complementary and Alternative Medicine"; Lynda W. Freeman; 2004
- "The Food-Mood Solution: All-Natural Ways to Banish Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Stress, ... "; Jack Challem, Melvyn R. Webach M.D.; 2007
- MedlinePlus: St. John's Wort
- MayoClinic.com: Depression (Major Depression)
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