Is Saint Johns Wort safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of St. John’s Wort While Breastfeeding
St. John’s Wort, a popular herbal remedy often used for its antidepressant properties, raises important questions regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. As postpartum depression affects approximately 10 to 15% of women after childbirth, many seek effective treatments while navigating the complexities of breastfeeding.
What the Research Says
Research indicates that St. John’s Wort, scientifically known as *Hypericum perforatum*, contains active compounds such as hypericin and hyperforin, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Notably, studies have shown that these compounds are poorly excreted into breast milk. In fact, a study involving breastfeeding mothers found that the amount of St. John’s Wort transferred to breast milk was minimal, and parents reported no negative effects on their infants .
Further investigations into the safety of St. John’s Wort during lactation have reinforced these findings. A cohort study involving breastfeeding women taking St. John’s Wort suggested that the herb is relatively safe, with no significant adverse effects observed in infants.
Caution and Recommendations
Despite the reassuring data, caution is advised. The herbal remedy is classified as Lactation Category CC, indicating that while it is considered compatible with breastfeeding, it should be used with care. This classification suggests that while the risks appear low, individual responses can vary, and monitoring for any unusual symptoms in infants is prudent.
Healthcare professionals often recommend that mothers consult with their doctors before starting any new treatment, including herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort. This is particularly important for those with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications, as interactions can occur.
Conclusion
In summary, St. John’s Wort appears to be relatively safe for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal transfer to breast milk and no reported adverse effects in infants. However, as with any treatment, it is essential for mothers to engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

What can breastfeeding moms take for anxiety?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

Why don’t doctors prescribe St. John’s Wort?

St. John’s wort limits the effectiveness of many prescription medicines. Combining St. John’s wort and certain antidepressants can lead to a potentially life-threatening increase in your body’s levels of serotonin, a chemical produced by nerve cells.

Are there any herbs to avoid while breastfeeding?

Herbs to avoid while breastfeeding

• Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)
• Sage (Salvia officinalis)
• Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Yarrow

How much does St. John’s Wort affect birth control?

St. John’s Wort is associated with increased metabolism of norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol, breakthrough bleeding, follicle growth and ovulation. Women using OCs should be cautioned that St. John’s Wort might interfere with contraceptive effectiveness.

Can breastfeeding moms take St. John’s Wort?

There is very little information available about the safety and efficacy of St John’s Wort in breastfeeding women. It is recommended that an alternative medicine be considered. See your doctor or pharmacist for advice before starting St John’s Wort.

Why no ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Can you take St John Wort while pregnant?

One study found the chance for a miscarriage in people taking St. John’s wort during pregnancy to be similar to the general population’s chance for miscarriage.

What herbs are safe for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Passion flower and oat are nervines, meaning they have a calming and relaxing effect on the body. Studies show that passion flower and oat are as effective as prescription anxiety medications. Plus, oats can help boost the metabolism of fats and increase milk production for nursing mamas. Melissa (Lemon Balm).

Who should avoid St. John’s Wort?

For people with major depression, there’s some concern that taking St. John’s wort may increase the risk for mania. Women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should not take St. John’s wort.