St. John's wort is an herb that some people take to alleviate the symptoms of depression. It might also be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, menopause, seasonal affective disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Like all herbal medications, St. John's wort has the potential to cause serious side effects, especially when mixed with other medications, but raising your blood pressure is not one of the listed side effects. Do not take any herbal supplement without talking to your doctor about it first.
Reserpine
Although St. John's wort can cause different types of side effects, high blood pressure is not one of them. The herb can, however, interact with reserpine, a drug that your doctor may prescribe to treat your high blood pressure. It can cause the reserpine to be less effective, and your blood pressure may go up. If you are taking reserpine or any other medication to treat high blood pressure, ask your doctor about possible contraindications before taking St. John's wort.
Side Effects
Common side effects from taking St. John's wort include dizziness and dry mouth. It can also cause confusion, nightmares, anxiety, irritability, gastrointestinal complaints, headache and skin rash. If these symptoms cause you undue stress, the added anxiety has the potential to raise your blood pressure. Taking St. John's wort can make you more sensitive to the sun, so wear sunscreen and cover your skin when going outdoors. Rarely, the herb can cause a severe allergic reaction. If you experience facial or oral swelling, wheezing or trouble breathing after taking this or any other medication, call 911.
Interactions
Although St. John's wort is often used to improve depression symptoms, it should not be taken with antidepressants. The herb can increase the side effects of the medication and can lead to serious medical conditions. It may reduce the efficacy of anti-histamines and immune-suppressing drugs. It can also interfere with the birth control pill. If you are taking birth control along with St. John's wort, use a backup form of protection to prevent unintended pregnancy. If you are on any prescription or over-the-counter medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking St. John's wort or any other herbal remedies.
Considerations
Before taking St. John's Wort, carefully read and follow the instructions on the bottle, and ask your doctor for advice. Be aware that the herb has been banned in France due to potentially serious drug interactions. Other countries, including Japan, Canada and the United Kingdom, currently or will soon include interaction warnings on the packaging. If you experience any unexpected or worrisome side effects while taking this herbal remedy, contact your doctor promptly.
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