Study proves hypericum to be effective
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The herb Hypericum perforatum L., commonly known as hypericum, has shown, in research, to be as effective as some prescription medications in the relief of melancholic symptoms.
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- Study proves hypericum to be effective
Published in the Cochrane Review, the research analysed 29 scientific studies with 5,489 men and women from a variety of countries, suffering from symptoms associated with anxiety and low-mood. The researchers compared the efficacy of hypericum against placebos and some prescription mood enhancers.
The subjects showed a 95% decrease in these symptoms when taking hypericum compared with a placebo and when comparing extracts of the herb with some standard prescription medications, the positive results were the same.
It was also found that fewer patients taking hypericum left the trial due to adverse effects than those taking the prescription medications.
Hypericum works in the same way as some prescription medications by increasing the brain chemical serotonin which is related to mood control.
Studies were only included in this research if they adhered to a strict criteria of scientific validity. The studies were all randomised and double blind, involved patients with significantly low mood and anxiety levels, compared extracts of hypericum with placebo or standard mood enhancers and included clinical outcomes assessing symptoms.
Blackmores Director of Education Pam Stone stands by the research. "This is strong clinical evidence supporting the traditional use of hypericum as a support for the nervous system, particularly for low mood and anxiety."
Stone also recommends other lifestyle changes to support mood. "Remember too that good nutrition and regular exercise are very important for mental wellbeing, so healthy diet and lifestyle choices make a positive difference."
Mood disorders are overall more common in people in the 35-44 age group, while for women they are much more common in the 18-24 age group, than for other age groups.
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