Posted by KaraS on July 19, 2004, at 21:09:29
In reply to Re: Various forms of SJW - BarbaraCat » KaraS, posted by BarbaraCat on July 19, 2004, at 19:55:08
> The form you'll be getting in pharmaceutical SJW is a potent standardized extract that works similarly to antidepressants in that it increases uptake of neurotransmitters. The action is not similar to other herbal products, such as Echinacea's needing a break, or other immune modulators. I'd be interested in whatever you find out, but I'd be very surprised if a break is suggested. It seems like you'd have to build levels up again. Please let me know what you find out. - Barbara
>
>
> > > Kara,
> > > I'm not aware of a need to take breaks from SJW, never heard of this and can't imagine any benefit, since building up to a steady-state is the goal. The literature says to give it from 4-6 weeks, just like any other AD. I've been on it for about 6 weeks. Started feeling a response after 4 days but it was uneven with good and bad days. Restarted lithium at 4 weeks and felt both kick in within 3 days.
> > >
> > > I know something is working because I had a major fibromyalgia flare over the weekend from helping a friend move. I had to spend a beautiful weekend in bed, and normally I would have been lying there with alot of anxiety and despair which usually accompanies it (as though the physical pain weren't bad enough). This time I took it in stride and was able to summons hope that things would get better. Had a few rough moments, but nothing like the misery I usually go through.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > How long did you say you've been taking SJW? Are you planning or have you been taking a month-long break after 4 months of use?
> > > >
> > > > It just dawned on me that if one stops SJW for a month and then takes another month to get results again, then one would only have that AD coverage for 4 out of every 6 months. What can one do for those other 2 months?
> > > >
> > > > Kara
> > >
> > >
> >
> > It's a general rule with herbs that you should take them for 4 months, stop for one month and then start again in order to prevent tolerance/poop-out. Maybe SJW is different. I'll do some research or maybe I'll just be lazy and ask Larry!
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Kara
> >
>
>I've looked at quite a few sources and there's no mention at all of going off of it after 4 months and restarting. One passage stated that you can take it for as long as you like. So I think it's a nonissue. Sorry to have alarmed you unnecessarily!
I had recently started taking Rhodiola and I had read that you should take the 4 month break with that one so it was in my mind already. Rhodiola also effects neurotransmitter activity so I figured it would be the same with SJW. However, Rhodiola is also an herbal adaptogen so there are other considerations there. (That one source I read regarding Rhodiola could have been wrong as well.)
Anyway, I'm glad I'm wrong. I'd prefer the continuous coverage! (One more reason to try the Perika.)
- K
poster:KaraS
thread:355675
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20040718/msgs/367988.html