Medicinal Plants: Central Nervous System-Anti-Depressants

Question 1

St. John’s Wort

BOTANICAL INFORMATION:

Answer 1

• Europe
• Herb
• Naturalized in North America, Asia and Australia-noxious weed
• Cultivation occurs in Europe, Americas, Australia, and China

Question 2

St. John’s Wort

HISTORY AS A MEDICINAL PLANT:

Answer 2

• Middle Ages-magic powers, repel evil spirits
• European folk healers-treatment of depression, anxiety, and insomnia
• Gastrointestinal problems, bladder ailments, kidney and lung disorders, cancerous tumours

Question 3

St. John’s Wort

MODERN UTILIZATION:

Answer 3

• European research confirmed effectiveness as an antidepressant agent
  
  • As effective as fluoxetine and paraoxetine in treating mild to moderate depression
• Used in treating colds and chest congestion, anti-biotic and anti-viral properties
• Hypericin and Hyperforin-inhibit the re-uptake of five neurotransmitters: serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GAMA), and L-glutamate
  
  • Hyperforin-anti-biotic and anti-viral properties, used in skin ointments for acute injuries and burns