Researchers at the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Southern California found that hypericin—a compound found in St. John’s Wort—not only reduced tumor size in people suffering from cancerous brain or spinal tumors, it also increased the rate of survival from this tragic disease.

Approximately 10,000 Americans are diagnosed with a malignant glioma every year and the survival rate one year after diagnosis is only 50 percent. Heretofore, treatment involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.  Hypericin showed superior results as a treatment for this serious condition.  Additionally, the St. John’s Wort compound was well-tolerated by the cancer patients, something that cannot be said for chemotherapy and radiation.

Everyone feels a little down from time-to-time. It’s natural. But, people who suffer from depression have an illness which affects them much more profoundly. The World Health Organization estimates that by the year 2020, major depression will be second only to chronic heart disease as an international health burden.  Depression is an illness like any other. Have a virus, or an infection, maybe a broken limb? See a doctor. The same goes for depression. Feelings of embarrassment or shame in seeking treatment for depression is passé. Of course some people don’t know they need help. Especially if they have been feeling the same for a long period time. Think dysthymia. If you recognize any of the symptoms listed below in yourself or others, please seek advice from your GP. There are a number of national organizations that can offer support and advice . . .