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Plants have been an essential part of our medicine industry for centuries, and St. John wort is one of the most used ones. But as much as this plant is a renowned remedy for different health purposes, consumers need to understand some concerns about the safety and efficiency of the plant.
Also known as Hypericum perforatum, this plant has been widely used in Europe for thousands of years, dealing with mental conditions as well as depression. But according to the current evidence, this plant’s effectiveness for depression are yet to be confirmed, not to mention that it has the potential for side effects as well. In the U.S. this plant has not been given the green light for use as an over-the-counter or prescription drug for depression.
Depression is primarily a medical condition that affects one in every ten adults in the United States. This can range from mood, thoughts, behavior and health. However, the severity of the condition and the symptoms thereof differ from one person to another. Conventional medicine can help in treating this problem, and these include psychotherapies and antidepressants.
As much as this plant has been used for centuries, it is known to affect the body’s processing of a number of drugs, and is capable of causing colossal side effects.
Psychosis is unusual but possible side effect could result from taking St. John’s wort. It is most likely to occur in people at a risk of mental health disorders like bipolar.
Serotonin is a brain chemical that antidepressants usually target, and as such, combine S.t John’s wort with these drugs, and serotonin can increase to life-threatening levels. The result effect is known as serotonin syndrome. The symptoms of this condition can range from decreased body temperature, confusion, tremor and diarrhea, muscle stiffness, and sometimes death.
S.t John’s wort is also known to suppress many prescription medicines. These include medicines like; antidepressants, digoxin (heart medication), cyclosporine (responsible for preventing rejection of transplanted organs by the body), and HIV drugs like indinavir. Others include drugs like warfarin and medications employed to thin blood, and several cancer medications like irinotecan. The other side effects are minor and uncommon, like upset stomach, or sensitivity to sunlight. If you are using this medication for depression, you will need to consider some things beforehand.
First, do not use it to replace conventional medical care for a medical problem, as in a case of depression, if not well treated, the situation might graduate to something severe. In such cases, seeking a healthcare professional is essential.
Keep dietary supplements in check, as these may cause medical problems if used incorrectly or over consumed, while others may interact with the medication with unpleasant effects. It is, thus, important to consult your healthcare provider.
And for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children, the situation is different, since many dietary supplements for these categories have not been tested. Besides, little is known about the effects that St John’s wort could have on these groups of people, which calls for consulting your physician on the same.
St. John’s wort has much to offer for the medicine industry, but it comes with a fair share of downsides as well. It seems the best way to get as much as possible out of this plant is knowing what to do and what to expect, and most importantly, work closely with your healthcare provider.