Medicinal Qualities of St. John's Wort

History has long told the tale of the various medicinal uses of St. John’s Wort. Until recently, this historical information had to suffice regarding the use and application of this
multifaceted herb. Science has now ‘proven’ many of these claims by mapping out a large number of active compounds and their relative actions.

The most notable action attributed to St. John’s Wort through standardized scientific testing is its effect on mild to moderate depression. Certainly, there are many variables and inconsistencies in the testing models as well as lack of definitive outcomes, but historical accounts combined with actual clinical experiences of hundreds, if not thousands of individuals, can attest to the overwhelming benefit of St. John’s Wort in cases of depression, sadness, decreased energy, fatigue, restlessness, insomnia, irritability or melancholy. (53) This extraordinary plant acts in harmony with the brain’s sleep-inducing mechanism, enhancing its action instead of overriding it.

Although the primary focus of modern science has been directed at the specific chemical action of hypericin and pseudohypericin, more recent studies have revealed that these constituents may not be the primary source of its anti-depressive action. Current research has suggested that the mood enhancing action of St. John’s Wort is improved by a lesser known compound called hyperforin. This chemical is thought to stimulate the immune system as well, aiding the body’s overall defense mechanisms. (54)

Dr. Walter E. Mueller, head of the department of pharmacology at the University of Frankfurt is a leading clinical researcher of St. John’s Wort. In tests performed by Dr. Mueller and his colleagues, hypericum extract was found beneficial in reducing the effects of depression, restoring brain function to normal. (55)

Laboratory testing has shown both hypericin and psuedohpericin as having powerful antiviral effects on the herpes simplex viruses I and II, Epstein-Barr, influenza A and B, and
other more specific viruses. Current research is being directed toward combating hepatitis, obesity, tuberculosis and HIV using St. John’s Wort. (56)

PMS or menopause are other conditions for which St. Johns Wort is useful. (57) This is not surprising as many of the same symptoms experienced with PMS are also seen with individuals suffering from depression. (58) Childhood enuresis, ADD/ADHD, gastrointestinal upset related to alcoholism, weight loss, arthritis, sciatica, nerve damage, urinary tract infections and dysbiosis due to excessive antibiotic or steroid use have also responded favorably to the use of St. John’s Wort. (59)

Positive studies have shown St. John’s Wort as a dominant player against breast cancer, several types of skin cancers and gliomas, the most commonly occurring form of brain cancer. It was reported that at low doses it inhibited the growth of new cancer cells and at high doses it actually killed the cancer cells. (60) The immune boosting properties of St. John’s Wort are an added benefit in these cases.

The flavanoid content in St. John’s Wort is now known to play a crucial role in its antidepressive actions and research is underway to try and determine to what extent. Many of these flavanoids have similar healing properties, but yet each one a unique fingerprint of action. Proanthocyanidins, a common group of flavanoids, are known to have antioxidant, antiviral and antibacterial properties as well as having a positive effect on the heart and related cardiovascular disorders. (61) Quercetin, also found in onions, is known to be a potent anti-inflammatory chemical as well as being a MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitor which helps with states of depression. (62)

Hyperin and biflavone have been identified for their effectiveness as sedatives and the compound amentoflavone acts as an anti-inflammatory, a sedative and as an inhibitor of ulcer development. (63) The flavanoids found in St. John’s Wort can also have diuretic effects, inhibit tumor growth, strengthen capillaries, dilate the coronary artery, and act as antispasmodics and antifungals. (64) Essential oils, a valuable part of the chemical makeup of St. John’s Wort, have been found to have both sedating and antifungal properties. (65)

Tannins, astringent by nature, are responsible for St. John’s Wort wound healing ability as these compounds dry and tighten or bind the skin. They are especially beneficial for burn or wound healing and reducing inflammation. Internally, they can stop diarrhea and internal bleeding. (66)

Additional studies have shown that xanthones may also have a strong effect on the antidepressive activity of St. John’s Wort, along with the quinones hypericin and pseudohypericin.

The class of chemicals called alkaloids has been reported to have a positive effect on the nervous system by enhancing or retarding the transmission of nerve impulses. Alkaloids are traditionally known for their antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions. (67)