Comprehensive exams for Mental Health Q 147
What herbal medication for depression, widely used in Europe, is now being prescribed in the United States?
A. Ginkgo biloba
B. Echinacea
C. St. John's wort
D. Ephedra
Correct Answer: C. St. John’s wort
St. John’s wort has been found to have serotonin-elevating properties, similar to prescription antidepressants. St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is commonly used to treat mild-to-moderate depression. Several bioactive compounds have been identified in St. John’s Wort that work synergistically to provide its antidepressant and anti-inflammatory attributes. St. John’s Wort was more efficacious than standard antidepressant therapy in patients with mild-to-moderate depression.
Option A: Ginkgo biloba is prescribed to enhance mental acuity. Ginkgo biloba is commonly used to improve memory and cognition in the elderly suffering from impaired cerebral circulation. Mitochondrial dysfunction is one theory proposed as the leading cause of cognitive decline. The two main components in Gingko biloba leaves are flavonoids and terpenes tri lactones. Together, these compounds enhance and protect mitochondrial function and scavenge reactive molecules like hydroxyl and peroxyl radicals, nitric oxide, and superoxide ions.
Option B: Echinacea has immune-stimulating properties. Echinacea is known as an immunostimulant, boosting both innate and specific immunity. It has also demonstrated anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Intracellular bactericidal activity and enhanced phagocytosis were also observed. A randomized, double-blind study of 473 patients virologically confirmed with influenza infection, showed Echinacea was as effective as oseltamivir with fewer adverse events and reduced risk.
Option D: Ephedra is a naturally occurring stimulant that is similar to ephedrine. Ephedra is a medicinal preparation from the plant Ephedra sinica. Several additional species belonging to the genus Ephedra have traditionally been used for a variety of medicinal purposes, and are a possible candidate for the Soma plant of Indo-Iranian religion.