What dosage is chosen for different indications?
Depending on the area of application and form of application, a certain dosage is advisable. From which dosage St. John’s wort oil shows an effect is controversially discussed. Some studies have shown that higher-dose preparations have a more effective effect.
Some authors assume that an antidepressant effect would only be possible at 900 mg. Other authors also reported homeopathic effects with low-dose St. John’s wort oil preparations. One can divide the amount and the corresponding application areas of the dosage into four categories.As a rule, a high-dose daily dose (1000 -2000 mg) of a St. John’s wort oil extract is recommended for mild to moderate depression, anxiety and sleep disorders. St. John’s wort oil in this dosage can also be soothing for migraines or headaches.
The high-dose St. John’s wort oil is available only on prescription. The treatment should be discussed with a doctor. As a rule, initial improvements should appear in about 1.5 to 3 weeks with this dosage.
If this is not the case, the doctor should be consulted. 900 mg St. John’s wort oil preparations daily are recommended for example in cases of mild depression, mild anxiety, nervousness, so-called premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and complaints during the menopause. Some authors completely reject treatment with St. John’s wort oil in children.
Other authors recommend it for children. However, a certain dosage, certain indications and instruction from a medical professional are required. For example, in some cases a dosage of 600 mg per day is recommended for children.
In these cases, nervousness, anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances are the main focus of treatment. A very low dose of 300 mg is also sometimes given to children. Some authors recommend this especially for depressive disorder in children. Any use of St. John’s wort oil should be consulted with the doctor beforehand.
What are the alternatives to St. John’s wort oil?
Depending on what the St. John’s wort oil is supposed to help against, there are different alternative possibilities. For burns and skin problems, aloe vera can be used alternatively – if it is tolerated. For nervousness and sleep disorders, relaxation techniques and breathing exercises may help. For nerve pain caused by muscle tension, massage oils with other active ingredients such as arnica can help. Depending on the severity and nature of the complaints, home remedies, homeopathic, therapeutic and various (school) medical options are available as alternatives.
All articles in this series:
