St. John's Wort |
What is it?St John's Wort is a yellow plant native to Europe but is also grown in the United States. The leaves of the plant contain hyperforin and hypercin, two chemical compounds that produce the herb's effects. St John's Wort is sold as capsules, teas, and in the form of various extracts. Purpose:St John's Wort has been used for centuries to treat mental disorders and nerve pain. Today, St John's Wort is used to treat mild depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders. While there is some early, limited research showing that parts of the plant might have activity against cancer cells, nothing is proven at this time. What is the evidence?St John's Wort has been widely studied in Europe over the past 20 years with more recent research done in the United States. Short term studies suggest that St John's Wort can be helpful in treating mild to moderate depression. Studies have shown that it is not effective in treating severe/major depression and cancer. Special Considerations/contraindications:There are risks in taking St John's Wort for depression or any other illness. There is evidence from both animal and human studies that St John's Wort interferes with the way many drugs are broken down in the body. This means that the levels of certain drugs may be increased in the blood. It can also cause the long-term effects of some medicines to be reduced. St John's Wort interacts with many prescribed medications including Warfarin, Cyclosporine, Plavix, Celebrex, Allegra, and Dilatin. St. John's Wort has also been shown to interact with some cancer medicines such as Ironotecan and Gleevec. Side Effects:Side effects can include insomnia, vivid dreams, fatigue, anxiety, agitation, irritability, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, dry mouth, confusion, high blood pressure, fast heart rate, dizziness, abnormal menstrual bleeding, and headache. St. John's Wort can also cause skin rash; sensation of burning, prickling, itching, and tingling, and low blood sugar. Both typical and long-term use of St. John's Wort can cause skin inflammation due to light. Light or fair-skinned people should protect themselves from direct sunlight when they are taking St John's Wort. Caution:Due to its ability to interact with numerous medicines, using St. Johns Wort during cancer treatment is not recommended. Resources: Mayo Clinic, Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, NCI website, and The American Cancer society.
Written 11/05 |
