St.-Johns'-Wort Is Ineffective for Major Depression

The largest clinical trial to date of St.-John?s-wort shows that this herbal supplement is no more effective than placebo for the treatment of major depression. The findings were reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association. ?Major depression is treatable, but this research suggests that major depression of at least moderate severity should not be treated with St.-John?s-wort,? said Jonathan R.T. D avidson, MD, lead author. Rather than self-medicate with an over-the-counter medication or supplement, pharmacists should strongly advise patients to consult an appropriate healthcare provider to assess the best treatment for a depressive episode.