Fair comment.

However, I must point out that St. John's Wort has been extensively tested, and German doctors now prescribe it as the preferred antidepressant.

At seminars held by a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer where I am the Audio Engineer, the German doctors frequently ask the Brits when they are going to 'catch on' to SJW.

The side effects are few, well documented, and significantly less traumatic than the 'non-herbal' medications.

People with a natural sensitivity to light, and those prone to high blood pressure, should avoid its use.

As SJW is a Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor, you should never mix its use with another SRI such as Prozac, or you may well induce Serotonin Syndrome - but this is a sensible precaution with any such medication.

No sensible person accepts any medication without proper advice - however, the quality of the advice is sometimes questionable.

Mental health is a very experimental area - it's difficult for doctors or herbalists to be right all the time. If you find you are having a bad reaction, find out why - but don't try to put others off in an emotional way. Stick to the facts - your opinions will be more credible.

It is NOT true to say that there is a lack of widespread knowledge of herbal remedies - if you make your purchases at a reputable Health Food shop, you will find they are very well informed, and even reluctant to make a sale unless you can convince them you really understand what you are buying.

Such shops also will put you in touch with experts who have all the necessary research information at their fingertips, should you require a second opinion.

When I bought my first bottle of SJW, I was also given a three page printout detailing the latest research.

Every medication has its supporters, and also the people who've had bad experiences. Almost invariably those who've had a bad experience have been given bad advice.

That was my experience with Paroxetine (Seroxat/Paxil). When it wasn't working, I was given a stronger dose, which resulted in a rapid regression until I had the courage to ease myself off it.