Saif Ul Islam
Depression is a one of the leading cause of disability. It is estimated that approximately 17% of the world’s population and 18% of the US population experience major depression in their lifetime. Women are almost twice as likely to experience major depression as men. The suicidal rate is four times higher among those with depression than those without depression. Use of herbal medicine is an important part of the evidence-based treatment of depression. Patients are more inclined to use herbal products than ever before and physicians are often asked about herbal medicine. Most of our curriculum in medical school does not or only briefly touch on this topic. Several clinical studies have shown that St. John’s wort and SAMe may be an option in the treatment of mild to moderate depression or where patient prefer herbal over conventional treatment.