Depression

Frequently Asked Questions

14. I've heard that the herb St. John's wort is used to treat depression. Does it work and is it safe? - cont'd

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Recently, the National Institutes of Health conducted a clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of the herb in treating adults suffering from major depression. (A clinical trial is a research study with people to find out if a drug, treatment, or therapy is safe and effective.) The trial found that St. John's wort was no more effective than a placebo, or sugar pill, in treating major depression. Currently, another study is looking at the effectiveness of St. John's wort for treating mild depression. (Answer continues on next page.)