Ginger Versus St. John's Wort for Mental and Physical Health
Dr. Elior Kinarthy
Psychologist
Fresh produce and herbs have lots of vitamins that benefit both physical and mental health but some herbs should be researched carefully before deciding to take them. Ginger is considered both an herb, spice and vegetable (since we eat the root). It helps to kill bacterial and viral infections and it's especially good for the mental health of both men and women who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Ginger root stimulates the production of melatonin and serotonin, the two hormones that regulate sleep and happiness.
I suggest trying a small piece of peeled Ginger root and keeping it in your mouth when you have symptoms of a cold or flu. Ginger also helps overall, to balance the biological system. You will get used to the strong taste and viruses will tend not to surface with the eating of ginger.
St John's Wort, is a common yellow flower that grows wild in many areas of Vancouver Island. It is an herb containing the chemicals Hyperforin and Hypericin. These chemicals can cause fatigue, restlessness, anxiety, headache, loss of memory and even hallucinations. These chemicals may also interfere with the benefits of taking ginger. Ginger and St. John's Wort in particular, tend to work against each other if taken at the same time. My research has shown that the benefit of taking St John's Wort is hyped and not worth the money, especially for mental health. It can cause more depression and confusion! In my opinion, you should stay away from St. John's Wort. It's absolutely not good as a tea or any other form as it can aggravate depression and other mental health problems.
Most fruits, vegetables and herbs that the earth produces is good for you. Some of you believe in God and others don't, but most of us know that the Living Universe cares about us and provides us with good food and beneficial herbs. There are many herbs that grow right in your backyard that are good for your mental health and well being.
The rest of the winter and early spring can be a more healthy and joyful experience by taking lots of ginger in the form of teas and chewing daily on fresh slices.
The Saanich Green Market has fresh ginger at wholesale prices and this is an inexpensive way to keep healthy until the end of the flu season and beyond. By the way, the chicken soup sold at the market is also great for your health and for the soul!