St. John's Wort's Safety Raises Concern

There is no evidence supporting the use of so-called 'natural' treatments in combating the effects of anxiety, a Saint Louis University doctor has said.

A Saint Louis University doctor has opined that there is no evidence supporting the use of so-called 'natural' treatments in combating the effects of anxiety.

Kimberly Zoberi, associate professor of family and community medicine at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, said that St. John's wort, kava extract and valerian, herbal remedies touted on the Internet, have not been proven to be effective in treating anxiety.

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Anxiety disorder involves excessive worry about actual circumstances, events or conflicts. Anyone can develop this disorder. Genes may play a role.

She, in fact, raised concerns about the safety of valerian, particularly lacking any long-term studies of the herb.

"Patients should be extremely cautious about garnering medical advice from the Internet. There is no evidence that those medications are effective. If a patient wishes to avoid drug therapy, her doctor can suggest alternatives such as cognitive behavioral therapy," said Zoberi.

The review article was published in last month's issue of the Journal of Family Practice.

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