Far safer than most prescriptions drugs, easily available and much less expensive, herbs are steadily growing in popularity. Of all herbs, St. John's Wort is a specific for depression and mental burnout. It also helps raise immune response, which can be lowered by stress or depression. The antidepressive effect of St. John's Wort is thought to be due to mono-amineoxidase inhibition. The monoamine-oxidase enzyme converts amines such as catecholamines, serotonin, adrenaline and dopamine in the brain into inactive forms, thus preventing the excitability of nerves.
Cytokines affect the nervous system both directly and indirectly.
A long history St. John's Wort is a medicinal plant. It flowers at the time of the summer solstice and for centuries the plant was thought to have the power to drive out evil spirits. With the spread of Christianity, the plant was associated with St. John the Baptist. It was said to bloom first on his birthday, June 21st, and to bleed on the day in August when he was beheaded. Further, St. John's Wort was thought to be most potent, medicinally, when harvested on St. John's Day.