Who should not take St Johns wort?

Who Should Not Take St. John’s Wort?
St. John’s Wort, a popular herbal remedy primarily used for treating mild to moderate depression, is not suitable for everyone. While it has garnered attention for its potential benefits, certain groups of individuals should exercise caution or avoid its use altogether due to possible adverse effects and interactions with other medications.
1. Individuals on Prescription Medications
One of the most significant concerns regarding St. John’s Wort is its potential to interact with a wide range of prescription medications. The herb can affect the metabolism of drugs processed by the liver, particularly those that are substrates of the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. This includes commonly prescribed medications such as antidepressants (especially SSRIs), anticoagulants, and certain cancer treatments. For instance, combining St. John’s Wort with SSRIs can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by excessive serotonin levels in the brain.
2. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid St. John’s Wort due to insufficient research on its safety in these populations. The herb’s effects on fetal development and nursing infants are not well understood, making it prudent to steer clear of this supplement during these critical periods.
3. Children Under Six
St. John’s Wort is not recommended for children younger than six years old. The safety and efficacy of the herb in young children have not been established, and its use could pose unnecessary risks.
4. Individuals with Severe Depression
While St. John’s Wort may be effective for mild to moderate depression, it is not suitable for individuals suffering from severe depression or major depressive disorders. Those with more serious mental health issues should seek conventional medical treatment rather than relying on herbal supplements, which may not provide the necessary support.
5. People with Certain Medical Conditions
Individuals with specific medical conditions, such as bipolar disorder, should also avoid St. John’s Wort. The herb may trigger manic episodes in those predisposed to bipolar disorder, complicating their mental health management. Additionally, those with HIV/AIDS should be cautious, as St. John’s Wort has not been shown to be effective in treating these conditions and may interfere with antiretroviral therapies.
6. Those Undergoing Surgery
Patients scheduled for surgery should discontinue St. John’s Wort at least two weeks prior to the procedure. The herb can affect blood clotting and may interfere with anesthesia, posing risks during surgical procedures.
Conclusion
While St. John’s Wort can offer benefits for some individuals, it is crucial to recognize who should avoid this herbal supplement. Those on prescription medications, pregnant or breastfeeding women, young children, individuals with severe depression, and those with specific medical conditions should consult healthcare professionals before considering its use. As with any supplement, informed decision-making is key to ensuring safety and efficacy.

What is the hardest antidepressant to get off of?

With a high risk of withdrawal:

• Desvenlafaxine (Khedezla, Pristiq)
• Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
• Paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva)
• Venlafaxine (Effexor)

Does St. John’s Wort affect the heart?

Conclusions. Multiple doses of St John’s wort extract do not affect heart rate variability nor cognitive function. Chronic administration of amitriptyline causes a decrement of HRV and subjective sedation but it does not impair cognitive performance.

What is the strongest natural anti-anxiety?

Is there an effective herbal treatment for anxiety?

• Kava. Some people use kava as a short-term treatment for anxiety.
• Passion flower. A few small clinical trials have suggested that passion flower might help with anxiety.
• Valerian.
• Chamomile.
• Lavender.
• Lemon balm.

What is the best natural anxiety supplement?

Here’s what we know — and don’t know — about some herbal supplements:

• Kava. Some people use kava as a short-term treatment for anxiety.
• Passion flower. A few small clinical trials have suggested that passion flower might help with anxiety.
• Valerian.
• Chamomile.
• Lavender.
• Lemon balm.

What medicines does St. John’s Wort interfere with?

Medicines which may interact with St John’s wort in this way include the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants (e.g. fluoxetine, paroxetine), other antidepressants affecting serotonin levels (e.g. nefazodone), and some migraine treatments (e.g. sumatriptan, naratriptan).

Does St. John’s Wort calm you down?

John’s wort could have anxiety-relieving effects due to its effects on GABA transmitters. The researchers noted the studies were all short-term, ranging from 4- to 12-weeks in length. Therefore, less is known about how effective St. John’s wort is long-term, compared to antidepressant medications.

Why should a patient not take St John’s wort?

St. John’s wort may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight, especially when taken in large doses. Other side effects can include insomnia, anxiety, dry mouth, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, headache, or sexual dysfunction.

What is the safest natural antidepressant?

Natural remedies for depression: Are they effective?

• St. John’s wort.
• SAMe. This dietary supplement is a synthetic form of a chemical that occurs naturally in the body.
• Omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are found in cold-water fish, flaxseed, flax oil, walnuts and some other foods.
• Saffron.
• 5-HTP.
• DHEA.

How safe is it to take St John’s wort?

Like all supplements, St. John’s Wort can cause side effects. These are rarely severe, but could make you uncomfortable. Side common side effects include insomnia, dizziness, anxiety, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, irritability, an upset stomach or a burning sensation if you use it topically. 3.

How quickly does St John’s wort start working?

Higher doses (1800 mg per day) have been used for those with moderate to severe depression. As with other antidepressant medication, the herbal remedy may take up to four weeks to exert an effect. St John’s wort should not be taken in combination with other prescription drugs, including antidepressants.