ST. JOHN’S WORT
Hypericum perforatumotherwise known asSt. John’s Wort, or goatweed is a perennial herb with bright yellow flowers which blooms from June to August. The name St. John’s Wort likely came from St. John’s day which is close to the starting bloom-time for the plant during summer solstice. The herb has an interesting history, with documentation of its use as far back as the early 1st century AD. It was used in magic potions in the Middle Ages to ward off “evil spirits” but its modern-day wonders are more scientifically documented. It is most noted for the treatment of mild depression and anxiety. It has been used prevalently throughout North and South America, Russia, Asia, China and the Middle East.
BENEFITS OF ST. JOHN’S WORT
St. John’s Wort is an expectorant, nervine, resolvent, astringent, and aromatic herb that has been used to treat nervousness, depression, hysteria, pulmonary conditions, dysentery, worms, and many other ailments. Its benefits include:
- Improves mood
- Increases feelings of happiness and ease
- Soothes the nervous system
- Reduces pre-menstrual syndrome
- Reduces menopausal symptoms
- Cancer preventative
- Improves cognitive functioning by lowering chronic stress
- Anti-viral
- Used to treat HIV
- Anti-inflammatory
- Ease addictive tendencies
- As a salve can speed the healing of skin wounds like cuts, bruises, etc.
HOW DOES ST. JOHN’S WORT WORK?
St. John’s Wort works by its atypical combination of natural antidepressant chemicals that prevent or delay the reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This alteration of neurotransmitters is known to reduce depressive symptoms. It also helps to increase energy, and boost a general sense of well-being.
The biologically active chemical constituents of St. John’s Wort include a host of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. The most noted constituents include naphthodianthrones hypericin and pseudohypericin, a broad range of flavonoids, and the phloroglucinols hyperforin and adhyperforin.
SUGGESTED DOSAGE
BeHerbal’s St. John’s Wort is sourced only with high quality ingredients. Dosage varies dependent upon the ailment being treated:
- 900 milligrams can be used twice daily to treat anxiety.
- .05-.50 milligrams can be used per kilogram of body weight to treat cancer for up to three months.
- 20-1,800 milligrams of St. John’s Wort can be used up to three times daily for 4-52 weeks to treat mild to severe depression.
SIDE EFFECTS OF ST. JOHN’S WORT
Side effects of any type are unusual and mild, as St. John’s Wort has been used for over 2,000 however, you may experience vivid drams, restlessness, anxiety, irritability, diarrhea, stomach upset, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, skin rash, or tingling in the limbs. This is often due to over-dosing. You can try reducing your dose, and if symptoms persist, discontinue use. Also, if you experience sleep issues, try taking St. John’s Wort first thing in the morning instead of just before bed.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before beginning any diet or program.