St. Johns wort is an herb used in dietary supplements to relieve symptoms of depression.
Research shows that St. Johns wort works as well as some antidepressants for the short-term treatment of depression.
Be aware that taking supplements with antidepressants can cause a severe interaction.
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St. Johns wort is also touted for treating skin conditions and reducing menopause symptoms.
However, more scientific research is needed to back these benefits.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Clinical trials have also studied it for skin conditions and menopause symptoms.
The following is information on its effectiveness.
It’s mainly been studied short-term for up to twelve weeks.
This means that long-term effects are uncertain.
And it’s unclear if St. Johns wort benefits severe depression or suicidality.
Clinical trials are rare, however.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
What Are the Side Effects of St. John’s Wort?
Your provider may recommend you take St. Johns wort for depression or another condition.
However, supplements like St. Johns wort may have potential side effects.
These side effects may be common and mild or rare and severe.
This can be life-threatening.
Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include the following:
Should you experience any of these, seek medical help immediately.
What Happens If I Take Too Much St. John’s Wort?
There is little available data on St. Johns wort toxicity.
The typical daily dose for depression (900 mg) is almost twice that used in the trial.
Interactions
St. Johns wort is perhaps the biggest herbal “offender” in terms of drug interactions.
St. Johns wort induces (increases the activity of) an enzyme called cytochrome P450 3A4.
In theory, taking less than 1 mg of hyperforin daily is unlikely to cause interactions.
It should be kept away from direct light.
Discard after one year or according to the manufacturer’s directions.
However, teas made from it are readily available.
It can be found as an OTC herbal supplement in many different formulations.
Do involve a healthcare provider in any treatment plan for depression.
Your provider can help you monitor for side effects and interactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
St. John’s wort decreases the effect of many other medicines.
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