St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) has been a natural alternative for depression for a long time. However, being a herb there has been much sceptism on it's effectiveness.
However, a recent Cochrane Review, found that there was a 95% decrease in the melancholic symptoms associated with depression (ie lack of energy, enthusiasm and eagerness for activity). They found this was the case when comparing St John's Wort with a sugar pill (placebo) and also St John's Wort with standard prescription medications).
A bit more on this review at http://www.slideshare.net/Cochrane.Collaboration/linde-johanniskraut-webseite-080402-378667
Great to see some solid scientific evidence for the herbal treatments come through at last!
On another note, a lot of people taking St John's Wort think that because it is a herbal medication, it is completely safe. However, St John's Wort can interact with other medications so make sure you always check your medications with a pharmacist before commencing it. Feel free to post me if you want to check your own medications.
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