St. John's Wort Helpful in Beating Depression

A recent study looked at 324 people with mild to moderate depression. Some were given twice daily doses of 75 mg imipramine (an established antidepressant). Others took 250 mg hypericum (St. John's Wort) twice daily for six weeks. Both groups reported that their depression was reduced. However, St. John's Wort was slightly more effective at reducing anxiety. Participants also found it easier to take. Only 3 percent withdrew from the study because of side effects compared with 16 percent taking imipramine. British Medical Journal September 2nd 2000;321:536-539