Post by Rik Wallin on Apr 6, 2007 10:39:33 GMT -6
Saint-John's-Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
leaves and flowers of the plant
Used for:
· Seasonal affective disorder ("winter blues")
· Mild to moderate depression
· Nervousness, insomnia, anorexia
· Skin irritation, including herpes simplex
Available in: Tablets, capsules, tinctures, fluid extract, powdered extract, oil
Herb/drug interactions: Saint-John's-wort is probably an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) but unlike Prozac and Zoloft, it affects other neurotransmitters as well. Therefore it may have an additive effect with those drugs, possibly causing an uncomfortable serotonin syndrome. Do not simply add to an existing pharmaceutical regimen.
When buying: Look for products standardized for hyperforin primarily, like Perika by Nature's Way.
Warning: High intake may cause photosensitivity; take precautions with sun exposure. Takes two months for antidepressant effect to be noticeable.
DOSAGES
Adults:
300 milligrams three times a day. For topical use on irritated skin, apply the oil directly several times a day.
Children under 10:
Half the adult dosage. Not to be combined with other mood drugs. Topical applications same as adult.
leaves and flowers of the plant
Used for:
· Seasonal affective disorder ("winter blues")
· Mild to moderate depression
· Nervousness, insomnia, anorexia
· Skin irritation, including herpes simplex
Available in: Tablets, capsules, tinctures, fluid extract, powdered extract, oil
Herb/drug interactions: Saint-John's-wort is probably an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) but unlike Prozac and Zoloft, it affects other neurotransmitters as well. Therefore it may have an additive effect with those drugs, possibly causing an uncomfortable serotonin syndrome. Do not simply add to an existing pharmaceutical regimen.
When buying: Look for products standardized for hyperforin primarily, like Perika by Nature's Way.
Warning: High intake may cause photosensitivity; take precautions with sun exposure. Takes two months for antidepressant effect to be noticeable.
DOSAGES
Adults:
300 milligrams three times a day. For topical use on irritated skin, apply the oil directly several times a day.
Children under 10:
Half the adult dosage. Not to be combined with other mood drugs. Topical applications same as adult.