St. John's Wort Extract (Hypericum perforatum)

St. John's Wort Extract (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericins 0.3% by UV

General Description: A shrubby perennial plant with yellow flowers, native to Europe but now grows in many parts of the world.

Parts Used: Flower

Uses:
mild to moderate depression (not major)
2nd & 3rd degree burns
AIDS (inhibiting the spread)
anti-viral against herpes 1& 2
antibacterial against gram positive and negative
pain associated with arthritis and sciatica
mood swings
insomnia
MS, fibromyalgia and neuromuscular inflammations

Action: Active ingredient is hypericin. Acts as a SSRI, keeps serotonin active in the brain. Suppresses interleukin 6, releasing affecting mood through neurohormonal pathways. Also produces, antiviral, anti-inflammatory anti-microbial and astringent properties.
Dosage: 300mg 3 times/day with meals, no more than 8 weeks.
Tincture: 1:2, 2-4 mls 3 times/day For wounds: use a tincture and cover with gauze or bandage.
Precautions/Adverse Effects: Photoxicity, headache, nervousness, fatigue, restlessness, mania and SSRI syndrome
Interactions with other Drugs: Antidepressants (SSRIs, tricyclics, MAOI's), Caffeine, Theophylline, concurrent use of antibiotics, Dopamine agonists, OTC cough and cold remedies, sleep aids, AIDS medicine - Indinavir by decreasing the effectiveness.
Interactions with other herbs: yohimbe, feverfew, ma haung, ginseng.
Contraindications: Fair skin with sun exposure, severe depression, mania, seizures, migraines, and Pregnancy/Lactation/Children.

Nursing Considerations:
Individuals should consult a health care provider to be evaluated for depression.
Wear sunscreen due to phototoxicity.
Do not use OTC medications with alcohol and St. John's Wort.
Do not use prior to surgery.

Current Research: In 1998, the National Institutes of Health began a 3-year study to investigate the efficacy of St. John's wort for the treatment of major depressive disorders. This study compares the extract of St. John's wort with a SSRI and placebo. In 1999, another study was started. This study is currently recruiting patients. It is entitled "Drug Interaction Study of Tegretol (Carbamazepine) and St John's Wort in Normal Volunteers".