St. John's Wort

Question
Dear Dr. Davis,



Does St. John's Wort heal deppression permanently, or is it a temporary fix?



The patient is 24 years old, and the depression is mild.



What else should I know about it's usage?



THANKS A LOT!




Answer
Hello Yehuda,



In practice, I don't use St. John's Wort for depression.  Usually, depression, especially in a young client, is due to Liver Qi or Liver energy stagnation.  Where there is not enough movement of energy either in the form of Blood (life fluids) or Qi.  Without knowing any more information then what is in your question, I'd say a mild form of depression is not a nervous or mental aspect, but rather an aspect of congestion or sluggishness of the Liver to process hormones and other biological chemicals.



St. Johns Wort has been highly studied as a means to help people who suffer from depression.  Its effects on the central nervous system help to calm the body and may increase levels of serotonin in the body, creating a feeling of less stress.  Therefore it can be good for depression and nerve pain.  In laboratory studies, it can protect bone marrow and intestinal mucosa form x-ray damage.  Applied topically, the oil aids wound healing.  Large amounts can cause heightened skin sensitivity, especially in light-sensitive people.  It should not be used by people who take prescription anti-depressants or any medication that interacts with MAO inhibitors.  And not for long term use if the patient is pregnant.



For a case of depression, you have to get the root cause of the mind/body imbalance.  It is relatively easy to figure out the body aspect, while the mind part can vary immensely from person to person.  Usually there is always some form of long-standing disappointment that can sit in the body and brew.  If the mental aspect is not discussed and treated, the person battle with "depression" for a very long time.



Hope that helps.

Peace and Blessings,

Dr. C