This includes the same symptoms as major depression, but is less severe and debilitating. Symptoms can be chronic and last for months or years. Some people, including doctors, still believe that depression is not a real condition and that those suffering from it can simply “will” themselves to lead a normal life. This is not true. Depression is definitely real. It is a mental condition that, if not treated, can take all pleasure from the sufferer’s life. Treatment includes antidepressant medications and psychotherapy. Often talking about situations that the sufferer feels are out of control can help lift the effects and symptoms of depression.
Why St. John’s Wort
Antidepressant drugs do not always relieve symptoms of depression. They can also cause sufferers to experience a wide range of side effects including headache, dry mouth, nausea, sleep disorders and loss of sexual function. In Europe, St. John’s Wort is used extensively by health care professionals for the treatment of depression.
Key Factors of St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort has been used to treat depression since ancient times.
The way St. John’s Wort works within the body to prevent depression is not well understood.
The composition of St. John’s Wort is not well understood.
Scientific studies are still being conducted to determine the types of depression that is best treated with St. John’s Wort.
St. John’s Wort can interact dangerously with certain prescribed medication.
All people wishing to use St. John’s Wort for the treatment of depression should contact their doctor or naturopath to ensure that an adverse reaction will not occur.
Forms of St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is sold in several forms:
Pills and capsules to be taken orally.
St. John’s Wort extract: some chemicals are removed leaving a concentrated form of the herb.
Tea: this form of the herb comes in tea bags. Boiling water is added and the tea is steeped for approximately seven minutes, before drinking.