Using several rating scales at the end of this period, the researchers did not detect any significant differences in improvement or remission rates between the treatment groups. The only adverse effect observed with St. John's wort was a higher incidence of headaches. This is the largest controlled clinical trial in the United States on the effects of St. John's wort on major depression. Finally, the results may be flawed since the study did not include a group that was treated with drugs or therapy that was more effective than a placebo. While this study does not discredit earlier reports showing the herb's effectiveness for milder depression, people with major depression may wish to opt for antidepressants and psychotherapy rather than St. John's wort.
Behavioral therapy can help people improve their sleep habits.
Researchers in North Carolina investigated the effectiveness of behavioral therapy against insomnia, which is often treated with medications. They randomly assigned 75 people with chronic insomnia into three treatment groups. One received cognitive behavioral therapy to help them come up with strategies to improve their sleep habits. A second group received instructions about muscle relaxation techniques. A placebo treatment group received instructions and practice in mental exercises that were considered unlikely to have any impact on insomnia.