this is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor. In the lactnet archives a
professional from Stanford voices some concern. A good website for
general MAOI info is
http://www.geocities.com/Sunset Strip/Alley/8657/MAOI.html
I heard an MD once talk on depression (a common reason some take St.
John's wort). Depression is ruled out by this doctor when the person has
experienced a major loss, or is a habitual drug user, or is experiencing
chronic illness - especially if it involves constant pain. Altho some
other docs would not RO depression in the presence of these other
factors - i like this man's approach.
St. John's Wort (an MAOI) is available in a health food store. Another
drug is listed on the above URL to counter possible side effects from
use of MAOIs - ie. stroke, extremly fast heart beat. But i don't know if
the second drug is so easily attainable.
Paula Bermingham, IBCLC