ST JOHN'S WORT

as seen on 20/20

For centuries, St. John's Wort has been used to treat a variety of complaints. Recent studies have found this herb to be a safe, rational supplement for treating mild to moderate depression.

A 1996 paper published in the British Medical Journal writes, "Hypericum extracts were significantly superior to placebo and similarly effective as standard antidepressants.. There were two [patients] drop-outs for side effects with Hypericum. and seven with standard antidepressant drugs... There is evidence that extracts of hypericum are more effective than placebo for the treatment of mild to moderately severe depressive disorders"

References:

Linde K, Ramirez G; Multow CD; Baols A, Weidenhammer W; Melchart D, 'St John's Wort for depression - an overview and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trails [see comments]" B,MJ, 1996 Aug 3

ST JOHN'S WORT

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