St. John’s Wort is a flowering herb that is indigenous to Europe, where it is generally considered to be a toxic, destructive weed. Its medicinal use dates back to ancient Greece, and it has been used by a number of cultures ever since.

St. John’s Wort has long been used as an herbal remedy for depression, and has recently been working its way into weight loss supplements. Proponents argue that it eases depression and creates a more restorative sleep, both of which contribute to healthy eating habits. However, this herb is still by far most popular as an antidepressant.

In some European countries, St. John’s Wort is reportedly used just as often, if not more so, than synthetic antidepressants. While some studies have found it to be effective for treating mild to moderate depression, others have found it to be no more beneficial than a placebo.

Those who are interested in trying an herbal supplement to improve their mood will likely be attracted to St. John’s Wort, because of the publicity, and the promise of minimal side effects. While studies have shown promising results for some individuals, others report minimal changes. An improved mental outlook may come as a welcome change for some, others may continue to struggle with feelings of anxiety and frequent shifts in moods.

Another natural remedy that is not often discussed is the natural form of the mineral lithium. Synthetic lithium medications are quite powerful, and are only used to treat serious chemical imbalances. However, in its natural state, the mineral can be quite helpful to those seeking a more balanced state of mind.

• Natural
• Fairly inexpensive
• Minimal side effects reported

• Some website do not post testimonials
• Studies have produced mixed results
• No free trial samples available

A number of individuals have found that St. John’s Wort gives them just the pick-me-up they need to help them think clearly and tackle the stresses of everyday life. Unfortunately, this does not work for everyone, and studies have yielded mixed results.

In addition, it may not be a good choice for women taking oral contraceptives, as it has been shown to weaken their effectiveness. However, there is a very viable alternative for individuals who are interested in evening out their moods naturally. When combined with the substance Orotate, natural lithium has been shown to be quite effective at very low levels. This means that consumers can experience a more balanced state of mind with a very mild dose.