It’s 2019 and there are still no recent studies showing anything conclusive with regards to the efficacy of St John’s wort on treating severe depression.
(If you wish to retrace my steps in the research please do so by all means and follow the links below.)
Many studies however have shown efficacy for assisting with mild to moderate depression which is a more common experience in the main population and to whom this article is directed.
“We all suffer the blues now and then” like the song says and here’s a plant that could help and has helped thousands throughout the ages from neolithic times to now.
Be it winter blues, hormonal blues, illness blues, christmas blues, whatever blues your song is about, this root extract may offer some comfort.
I say why not!
Tinctures and capsules are sold on the market now. Best to go to your local natural health store and get advice there.
Why not consult with a natural herb specialist, naturopath, phytotherapist, etc and have the accompaniment, the support, the knowledge that they can offer you.
Self-care means caring enough for oneself to get assistance from other humans whose job it is to assist. They do it all day, they’ve studied, it’s their bread and butter and I say use them. Just don’t lump all the responsibility on the professional you choose, do your own research, create your own path of well-being.
How and when to use St John’s Wort
Use it as an intensive ‘cure’ or regimen for a few weeks along with other self-care strategies such as a diet change, some exercise, some meditation or mindfulness, a good friend to chat with, a visit to your counsellor, massage therapist, manicurist, whoever brings you joy but especially go out to NATURE.
Visit a forest today!
Namaste
Cautionary note: if you are severely depressed and on medication, please abstain from listening to any wisdom given here apart from talk to a professional now.
Research Links:
NCBI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5010734/
NHI https://nccih.nih.gov/health/stjohnswort/sjw-and-depression.htm
WEBMD https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/st-johns-wort#1
Abundance of Wisdom 