By Alissa B Daschbach MA BS BA MH

The degeneration of important neurotransmitters can lead to progressive symptoms of depression and mood changes as we age. St. John’s Wort inhibits the uptake of serotonin, dopamine, and other important mood neurotransmitters, elevating mood and lifting depression. Additionally, St. John’s Wort is a neuroprotectant, working to decrease oxidative stress, brain inflammation, and neurotoxicity 

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a flowering shrub native to Europe that has been used for over 2000 years as a medicinal herb to treat a multitude of illnesses and diseases, especially mental health conditions. In fact, St. John’s Wort is a widely prescribed medication in Europe for mild to moderate depression (as opposed to pharmaceutical antidepressants). The medicinal constituents of the plant are derived from the flowers and leaves. As a nootropic, St. John’s wort has the following benefits: 

Anxiety and stress: Floral extracts of St. John’s wort have been shown to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress due to its ability to moderate genes that control the function of the HPA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal) axis. The HPA axis is responsible for controlling the stress response system. 

Neuroprotective: St. John’s wort extracts contain antioxidant properties which serve to decrease oxidative stress within the brain. Furthermore, the extract prevents neurotoxicity and reduces brain inflammation. Studies show that St. John’s wort also protects against cell death that are caused by the proteins that form plaques in the brain of people who have Alzheimer’s disease. 

Neurotransmitters: St. John’s wort has a strong inhibitory effect on the uptake of GABA, dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and glutamate. The inhibition of these neurotransmitters and hormones greatly modulate mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety disorders.

St. John’s Wort and Alzheimer’s Disease

Evidence suggests that herbal formulations containing St. John’s wort show neuroprotective properties. This is an important attribute when you consider how neurodegeneration (the progressive loss of the function and structure of neurons) is the primary cause of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, the drops in levels of important neurotransmitters such as serotonin and acetylcholine can lead to mental health disorders, such as increased bouts of anxiety and depression. The higher rates of depression and anxiety in the elderly (especially those with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia) can be helped by regular supplementation with St. John’s Wort (see study). 

Alzheimer’s disease is the most frequent cause of brain dementia caused by the deposit of proteins known as beta-amyloids. These protein deposits are known as amyloid plaques. The active compound hyperforin, derived from St. John’s Wort extracts, has been shown in studies to alleviate memory impairment and decrease the number and size of amyloid plaques in mice that carry the Alzheimer’s disease gene. These findings hold remarkable implications for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease considering the effect that the extract has on the disease processes of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Aging is inevitable. For many of us, the idea of aging can be an overwhelming thought process. As we age, we notice that joints begin to stiffen while movement grows more difficult and painful. This may seem manageable, until we realize that our brains are also affected by the passage of time. Age-related neurodegenerative disorders lead to the progressive degeneration of brain functions, including memory and mood regulation. BrainPower contains floral extracts of St. John’s Wort, a phytomedicinal that has profound effects on the regulation of mood in the brain along with powerful neuroprotective properties.

Cautions and Contraindications

As with all supplements, consult with your doctor before taking St. John’s wort. The extract is known to interact with several different medications. Be sure to check with your physician before starting supplementation with extracts from St. John’s wort. 

St. John’s wort can cause photosensitivity, especially when taken for extended periods of time. People with fair skin should be wary of excessive sun exposure when taking St. John’s wort. It is known to cause photosensitivity and fair-skinned complexions are especially susceptible to sun damage by the sunlight and ultraviolet radiation. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your doctor before taking St. John’s wort. 

St. John's wort contains compounds which are known to interact and contraindicate with a number of medications, including: 

• Antidepressant medications (including SSRIs and MAO-inhibitors)
• ACE inhibitors
• Amphetamines
• Antiretrovirals
• Oral contraceptives
• Immunosuppressants
• Thiazide and loop diuretics
• NSAIDs

References

Hofrichter, J., et., al. (2014). Reduced Alzheimer’s disease pathology by St. John’s wort treatment is independent of hyperforin and facilitated by ABCC1 and microglia activation in mice. Current Alzheimer Research, 10(10), 1057-1069. Retrieved from PubMed Central: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3909922/ 

Szegedi A., Kohnen R., Dienel A., & Kieser M. (2005). Acute treatment of moderate to severe depression with Hypericum extract WS(R) 5570 (St. John’s Wort):  Randomized, controlled, double-Blind, non-inferiority trial versus peroxetine, British Medical Journal, 330(7490), 503. Retrieved from PubMed Central: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC552808/ 

Trofimiuk E., Walesiuk A., & Braszko J.J. (2005) . St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) diminishes cognitive impairment caused by the chronic restraint stress in rats. Pharmacological Research, 51(3), 239-46. Retrieved from PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15661574/ 

Trofimiuk, E., Holownia, A. & Braszko, J.J. (2010) Activation of CREB by St. John’s wort may diminish deletorious effects of aging on spatial memory. Archives of Pharmacal Research, 33, 469–477. Retrieved from SpringerLink: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12272-010-0318-y