St John's Wort really does help depression

Professor George Lewith, head of health research at the University of Southampton and a practising GP, has stated that he will continue to recommend St John’s Wort to patients with mild to moderate depression.

St John's wort (hypericum) is a short, yellow-flowering, wild-growing plant. It has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb.
In response to the recent studies questioning the effectiveness of St Johns Wort he says ‘Having worked in complementary medicine for many years, I know of so many more studies that have found St John’s wort to be effective and well-tolerated.’

Many patients on antidepressants struggle with nausea, insomnia, weight gain and sexual dysfunction. When it’s time to stop, they face headaches and cravings which is why Professor George Lewith thinks for mild to moderate depression the best solution is St John’s Wort.

He says ‘I am not talking about using the herb in major depressions where the patient is suicidal or a danger to others, nor am I talking about day-to-day blues. Although studies show you may get a fast response on St John’s Wort and feel your mood improving within the first week, don’t think you can come off it as fast. St John’s Wort is not harmless — it’s a powerful medicine. But, taken responsibly, most people will see good results, which is a cheering thought.’