Emily Wood Student Pharmacist Spring 2022
St. John’s Wort https://sungodmedicinals.com/pages/herb-spotlight-st-johns-wort
Common names: Goatweed, Klamath weed
Scientific name: Hypericum perforatum L.
https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Scheme-1-Structures-of-St-Johnswort-main-antidepressant-components_fig1_6442263
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/st-johns-wort-and-depression-in-depth
History St. John’s wort has been used in traditional European medicine for centuries. It is named after John the Baptist due to the yellow-flowered plant blooming around the same time of year as St. John the Baptist day. Having been cited by well-known ancient Greek physicians such as Hippocrates, it was primarily used as an antidepressant and a diuretic. It was also noted for its healing properties. Today it is most commonly used to treat mild-to-moderate depression. It is available over the counter in the United States or by prescription in much of Europe. Common uses - Anti-inflammation - Antiviral/HIV - Depression - Irritable bowel syndrome - Menopause symptoms - Restless leg syndrome - Skin conditions - Wound healing https://minoritynurse.com/herbal-medicine-everything-you-need-to-know-about-st-johns-wort/
Pharmacology St. John’s wort is comprised of a large number of chemicals that can have a variety of effects. Most notably, it contains hypericin and hyperforin, which are thought to provide the supplement’s main pharmacological effects. Studies have shown that it inhibits the reuptake of several neurotransmitters, including norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin.
Dosage This supplement is available in a range of forms, mainly capsules. Other forms include tablets, tinctures, teas, and lotions. It is also available dried or powdered. Dosing can range from 200 to 1,800 milligrams daily, with the most common being 900 milligrams divided into three daily doses to treat depression. The lotion generally contains 3-5% hyperforin or 0.3% hypericin. 109
