St. John's wort, also known as hypericum and goat weed, has been touted as an herbal treatment for clinical depression that may be at least as effective as traditional antidepressant medications. Although it's potential mood-boosting effects have gained this plant publicity in recent years, its medicinally uses date back to ancient Greece. Today, St. John's wort is among the top-selling herbal products in the U.S. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) lists a number of possible benefits of St. John's wort, as well as its potential side effects.
Mood Disorders
St. John's wort has been used as a remedy for mental disorders for hundreds of years. St. John's wort may be helpful for mild to moderate depression, according to the National Institutes of Health. It might also lift the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that occurs during the dark days of winter when sunlight is limited. St. John's wort has also been used as a sedative to relieve anxiety and promote sleep.
Wound Ointment
St. John's wort contains antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been applied topically as a balm to promote the healing of insect bites, wounds and burns. St. John's wort has also been used to help treat the potentially deadly parasitic blood disease malaria.
Side Effects
Side effects associated with St. John's wort are usually mild. Common adverse reactions include nausea, skin rash, fatigue, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, restlessness, headache, dry mouth, dizziness and/or confusion. When St. John's wort is combined with antidepressants, symptoms of nausea, anxiety, headache and confusion may intensify. In rare cases, St. John's wort may cause severe psychiatric symptoms such as suicidal and homicidal thoughts.
Sun Sensitivity
Individuals who take St. John's wort, particularly those with fair skin, should use caution when going out in the sun. This herb may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight. Apply a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher and wear long sleeves and a hat whenever possible. Also avoid indoor tanning and the use of sunlamps.
Interactions
St. John's wort may interact with certain medications. Possible drug interactions include oral contraceptives, antidepressants, anticoagulants (such as warfarin) and the anti-rejection drug cyclosporine.
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