Bipolar disorder, which typically strikes during the teen and adult years, is a complex mental health condition. Drastic changes in mood and activity level are the hallmarks of bipolar disorder, formerly called manic-depressive illness. Many treatment methods are available for this incurable condition, including several prescription drugs and psychotherapy. The herb St. John's wort has also received considerable attention for its possible benefit for mental health conditions; however, using this herbal remedy can be a dangerous if you have bipolar disorder.
Understanding St. John's Wort
The plant St. John's wort grows naturally in certain areas of Asia, Africa, Europe and the western part of the United States. This shrub has long been used to treat a variety of health conditions, including wounds, bacterial infections and skin conditions, such as eczema. It is most well-known for its role in mental health; in fact, the ancient Greeks used it to treat mental conditions. Depression and anxiety disorders, such as social phobia, are among the conditions treated with St. John's wort.
Drug Interaction
Taking St. John's wort as an alternative treatment for bipolar disorder is not safe, particularly due to its indirect interaction with medications used to treat the condition. CYP 3A4 is an enzyme in your intestinal tract involved in absorption of drugs into the bloodstream. St. John's wort inhibits this enzyme, leading to a 50 percent reduction in its function, according to the Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide. This means that your medication's effectiveness can be cut in half.
Medications Affected by St. John's Wort
St. John's wort is known to affect several of the drugs prescribed to treat bipolar disorder. These include antidepressants, such as fluoxetine, paroxetine and sertraline. The herb may increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects to these drugs. Doctors are also using anticonvulsant drugs, typically an epilepsy treatment, to stabilize mood in bipolar patients. Valproic acid is one of these medications and is considered an alternative to lithium, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. St. John's wort may increase the effects this and other anticonvulsants have on the body.
Manic Episodes
Drug interactions are not the only concern when it comes to using St. John's wort for bipolar disorder. Using the herbal supplement may increase the likelihood of having manic episodes, the National Institute of Mental Health warns. Signs of mania include high energy levels, bravado, racing thoughts, restlessness, insomnia, irritated mood and impulsive actions. Medication taken to regulate these mood shifts may not be nearly as useful if you use St. John's wort too. Always discuss using this herbal supplement with your physician, especially if you are taking any medications.
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