The word “wort” means “plant” in Old English.
Commonly Known As
People have been using St. John’s wort for centuries.
It may work because of the effect St. John’s wort has on the brain.
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People with depression may have low levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters.
Do not delay seeking treatment for depression.
However, they note it can potentially cause serious drug interactions and reduce the efficacy of life-saving medications.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
In some studies included in the review, St. John’s wort had efficacy comparable to SSRIs.
Additionally, the herb appeared to have fewer side effects.
These may include:
When used topically, St. John’s wort may cause a skin rash.
You may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking St. John’s wort.
The herb can interact with medication in different ways.
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking St. Johns wort and seek immediate medical attention.
Without treatment, the condition can be fatal.
There is no standard recommended dose for St. John’s wort.
St. John’s wort can be found in several different preparations depending on how it will be used.
The strength may also vary from one supplement brand to another.
see to it to store the bottle or package out of direct sunlight.
St. John’s wort products need to be stored safely, just like any other medication.
Unlike prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements don’t always come in child-proof containers.
Check the Supplement Facts label for the product you choose to ensure you are getting the appropriate dose.
This label also provides information about other ingredients the supplement may contain.
A seal of approval does not, however, guarantee a product’s safety or effectiveness.
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