St. John’s Wort, Saw Palmetto, and Vinpocetine

St. John’s Wort

Although it is not know exactly how St. John’s wort works, it has achieved a fair amount of attention for its ability to treat mild cases of depression. However, it is important to realize that cases of moderate or severe depression should always be treated with the help of a doctor, who will recommend the best medicinal route.

Functions of St. John’s Wort

• Contains hypericin, which increases the body’s level of dopamine (a neurotransmitter involved with feelings of pleasure)
• Contains hyperforin, which increases the body’s dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutamate, noradrenaline, and serotonin
• Has antibacterial properties
• Is an anti-inflammatory
• May inhibit vital infections

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is an herb grown in Florida that has nutritious properties and canhelp strengthen your immune system. It may effectively fight certain cancers, but more testing is needed before this information can be considered valid. Saw palmetto is primarily beneficial because it can help men maintain a healthy prostate. However, ask your doctor before taking this herb if you have any sex hormone-related disease or disorder or are taking birth control.

Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine is from the periwinkle plant. It is very important to your overall health because of its ability to increase the flow of glucose to your brain, as well as increase your brain’s metabolism of oxygen. This results in improved memory and brain function.