Why is St. Johns wort used as an alternative therapy for depression?
Some patients who take antidepressant drugs do not experience relief from their depression. Other patients have reported unpleasant side effects from their prescription medication, such as a dry mouth, nausea, headache, or effects on sexual function or sleep. Sometimes people turn to herbal preparations like St. John’s wort because they believe “natural” products are better for them than prescription medications, or that natural products are always safe. Neither of these statements is true (this is discussed further below). Finally, cost can be a reason. St. John’s wort costs less than many antidepressant medications, and it is sold without a prescription (over the counter).
