How to Use St John's Wort Extract to Treat Depression

There are more users of St John's Wort extract to treat depression than most other natural alternatives, although there are many alternatives to antidepressants that are used to alleviate depressive disorder symptoms. This herb is a worldwide plant phenomenon that is highly regarded in Germany and other parts of Europe for its very effective medicinal powers. The successful use of St John's Wort extract is definitely not fabricated from legends, wive's tales or fringe alternative health groups. In fact, there are many scientific studies that taut the use of the extract for patients who experience various depressive disorders. Legitimate doctors, especially in Europe, have long held to the importance of St. John's Wort as a viable alternative to strong, mood altering drugs.

Here's how to use St John's Wort extract to treat depression:

1. Choose an extract that is 0.

3% hypericin and approximately 10% hyperforin because this will ensure complete use of all active ingredients that are available through the herb. The herb is available in capsules, tea and tincture form. Since there are some reported side affects that are related to stomach problems, you may need to experiment with the form that is best for your digestive tract. Sometimes those with sensitive stomachs do better with teas or tinctures since it is digested easier than in capsule form. The herb can be found in whole food stores, on line alternative medicine sites and sometimes in conventional drug stores.

2. Make sure St John's Wort extract is standardized since this insures efficacy and safety.

3. The typical dosage is 300 milligrams, 3 times a day. Daily amounts of 900 milligrams are commonly suggested for effective help with depression symptoms.

4. Allow several weeks for this natural treatment for depression to begin to work. Herbs, unlike synthetic drugs, generally require a longer process to release their full potential. On the other hand, herbs are generally more in sync with the body systems and do not cause a wide variety of side effects as do Prozac, Zoloft, or other mood altering drugs.

Rare, but known side effects:

-Stomach problems

-Photosensitivity in some users (Use sunscreen, if you develop an unusual sensitivity to sunlight.

-Serious side affects can occur if used with other drugs. Consult your doctor before any drug and herb interaction occurs.

-Recent studies show that the use of St. John's Wort can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills by 50%.

Always keep safety as an important concern and if you have further questions, consult the advice of an alternative or traditional health care professional before using any herbs such as St John's Wort extract or other medications to treat depression.