Studies show that people taking St. John's wort experience natural mood elevation and reduced feelings of sadness or hopelessness and often experience a better sleep pattern. There are virtually no adverse side effects associated with St John's wort, unlike pharmaceutical anti-depressants. Although St. John's wort is not a sedative some studies show that it can help with sleep because it can extend periods of deep sleep. It is safe to use while driving or operating machinery.
While St. John's wort is a thoroughly researched herbal remedy with an excellent track record, It is recommended that people diagnosed with clinical depression use it under the supervision of a qualified health professional. St. John's wort can cause sunburn in some people if the recommended daily dosage is consistently exceeded while in the sun. St. John's wort has been considered a possible risk factor for the development of cataracts. Such risks, if they exist, may be eliminated with daily supplementation with vitamin C and alpha-lipoic acid.
