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St. John's Wort

Herbal Supplements

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The Basics
St. John's Wort (or St. Johnswort) herbal preparations are made from the leaves and flowers of this shrub-like plant. The active components are hypericin and pseudohypericin.

This herb is used to treat depression, anxiety, insomnia, hyperinsomnia (excessive sleep), wounds, and hemorrhoids. Research reports some improvement in patients with HIV.

Sources
St. John's Wort is available in the following forms: teas, capsules, liquids, and lotions (oil-based). For maximum benefit, purchase standardized products (containing 0.3% hypericin).

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Guidelines and Cautions
Always follow package directions.

Depression is a serious condition. Do not self-treat depression. Seek the advice of a medical professional.

Possible side effects include constipation, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, hives, fatigue, and problems sleeping.

Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use St. John's Wort.

Do not take St. John's Wort if taking any of the following medications: an MAO inhibitor (monoamine oxidase) (i.e. Nardil, Parnate), SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) (i.e. Prozac, Zoloft) or other anti-depressant medication, L-dopa, or 5-hydroxytrytohan.

Updated on: 02/06/10
George D. Picetti, III, MD
In reviewing the above supplements several observations were noted. First of all there are no scientific papers that review the efficacy of these supplements in refereed journals. Therefore we are not able to comment on how effective they are on a scientific level. These supplements are not held to the same standards as other medications, and thus the dose and concentration may differ among different brands or companies. Although many people claim to have good results from taking these and other supplements, it is always best to discuss this with your doctor before taking these supplements. If you are taking any supplement and are scheduled for surgery, it is imperative that you tell your surgeon and anesthesiologist. Some of these supplements can cause significant changes in your body’s chemical functions, such as slowing blood clot formation, which can be a serious problem during surgery.
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