How Does St. John’s Wort Effect Mood?

St John’s Wort Mood Benefits

St. John’s wort is a widely popular herbal product in the United States, known for its historical use in the medical treatment of depression. It has gained popularity due to its perceived safety and lower prevalence of side effects compared to prescription medications. In fact, St. John’s wort is prescribed four times more often than Prozac in Germany, making it the country’s most commonly prescribed antidepressant. While its exact mood mechanisms of action are not fully understood, numerous research studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of St. John’s wort in treating mild to moderate depression.

Natural Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

The natural chemicals found in St. John’s wort are believed to function similarly to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, which play crucial roles in regulating mood. St. John’s wort inhibits the enzymes monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), responsible for breaking down these neurotransmitters. By inhibiting these enzymes, the concentration of these neurotransmitters increases, leading to enhanced mood.

Let’s explore the effects of each of these three neurotransmitters on mood:

1.) Serotonin:

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with mood and is often considered a major contributor to feelings of well-being and happiness. Stress and depression can disrupt the serotonergic system, leading to dysregulation. St. John’s wort, especially when taken in a formulation containing 5-HTP (a form of vitamin B6), can counteract age-related serotonin depletion and positively impact mood. Increasing serotonin levels also promote the production of melatonin, a hormone crucial for maintaining a healthy sleep cycle. Depression-induced serotonin dysregulation is known to cause sleep difficulties, and St. John’s wort can help address this issue.

2.) Norepinephrine:

Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter associated with concentration, attention, memory, arousal states, and sleep regulation. In affective disorders like depression, the norepinephrine circuits become dysregulated. Although the dysregulation of the norepinephrine system is not the primary cause of depression, it contributes to the associated symptoms and the body’s biological response to stress. By increasing the natural levels of norepinephrine in the brain, St. John’s wort helps elevate mood and restore a normal affect and sleep cycle.

3.) Dopamine:

Dopamine is a significant neurotransmitter involved in sleep and wake cycles, motor and cognitive functions, pleasure and reward regulation, motivation, and personality. While it does not directly influence positive mood like serotonin, it plays a crucial role in feelings of pleasure. Dopamine production is regulated by serotonin, and increasing serotonin levels can also lead to increased dopamine production. Additionally, dopamine production is stimulated by low to moderate-intensity exercise, which is why athletes often experience a positive biological response known as the “runner’s high.” Recent research has indicated that the dopamine system also plays a significant role in treating depression, alongside the serotonin and norepinephrine systems.

Interactions with Prescription Antidepressants

It’s important to note that St. John’s wort may interact with other medications, including prescription antidepressants, birth control pills, and over-the-counter drugs. It can also cause drug interactions and potentially lead to serotonin syndrome when combined with certain substances. Therefore, if you are considering taking St. John’s wort, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you are already taking other medications or have a serious illness. They can provide guidance on potential interactions and help determine if St. John’s Wort is a suitable option for you.

Treat Depression Naturally

In conclusion, research suggests that St. John’s wort may effectively treat mild to moderate depression by influencing the brain chemicals serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. However, its use should be cautiously approached, particularly regarding potential interactions with other medications. St. John’s wort is considered a dietary supplement and falls under the category of complementary and integrative health. If you are experiencing symptoms of major depressive disorder, severe depression, or other serious mental health conditions, it is essential to seek professional help and consider standard antidepressant medication or other appropriate treatments under the guidance of a healthcare provider.