Is St. John's Wort Truly as Beneficial as Believed?

This plant is genuinely helpful in combating depression, yet it carries potential side effects.

St. John's Wort is a tall herb with small yellow flowers.

According to the Brockhaus and Efron Encyclopedic Dictionary, its name derives from the effect it has on herbivorous animals. Livestock that consume the flowers do not die but become lethargic, exhibit unsteady gait, sometimes lose balance, and fall as if struck by an invisible hunter.

Another theory suggests the name originates from the Kazakh word "djerabay," meaning "wound healer." In Russian, the plant is sometimes called "khvoroboy," also referencing its medicinal properties. Indeed, these healing qualities are what make St. John's Wort well-known.

Lifehacker investigated whether the plant's medicinal effects are scientifically supported.

What Is St. John's Wort Known For?

Ancient healers like Hippocrates, Dioscorides, and Pliny the Elder used St. John's Wort to treat wounds and various ailments. The legendary Avicenna claimed that the plant's seeds, taken internally, stop persistent high fevers, and its infusion cures sciatica inflammation.

Traditional healers refer to St. John's Wort as the herb for 99 ailments.

Modern medicine also views the plant as promising. It is believed that St. John's Wort, in forms such as tea, tincture, liquid oil extract, or pills, can positively impact health by:

• Relaxing muscles and relieving spasms, which may benefit women experiencing pain during PMS and menstruation.
• Providing a mild calming effect.
• Helping with insomnia.
• Easing neuralgia pain.
• Exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties; compresses made from St. John's Wort can reduce swelling.
• Reducing itching in conditions like vaginitis and hemorrhoids through rinses with its tincture.
• Supporting the body's defense against viral infections, including herpes and HIV.
• Possessing anti-tumor effects, theoretically lowering cancer risk.

However, these benefits still lack sufficient scientific confirmation.

Nonetheless, some effects of St. John's Wort are well-established.

Scientifically Supported Benefits of St. John's Wort

Here are the proven advantages of this herb.

1. Helps Manage Depression

Numerous studies confirm that tea or supplements containing St. John's Wort can effectively treat mild to moderate depression.

An analysis of 27 studies found that St. John's Wort is as effective as prescription antidepressants.

This effect is attributed to active compounds in the plant—hyperforin, hypericin, and adhyperforin—that boost the production of "feel-good" hormones serotonin and dopamine.

2. Accelerates Healing of Burns, Wounds, and Bedsores

This benefit is observed when applying St. John's Wort oil tincture topically.

Potential Risks of St. John's Wort

Despite some scientifically confirmed benefits, medical professionals approach St. John's Wort cautiously due to several serious concerns.

Therefore, it is advisable to consult your primary care physician or specialist before using it.

1. Reduces Effectiveness of Many Medications

St. John's Wort increases enzyme levels in the blood responsible for metabolizing certain substances, including medications.

Its use can weaken or negate the effects of drugs such as:

• Oral contraceptives;
• Digoxin (used for heart conditions);
• Ciclosporin (prevents organ transplant rejection);
• Chemotherapy and HIV treatment drugs;
• Anticoagulants (blood thinners).

Combining St. John's Wort with antidepressants may dangerously elevate serotonin levels, causing serotonin syndrome.

Experts at the Mayo Clinic recommend avoiding St. John's Wort if you are on any prescribed medications.

2. Increases Sensitivity to Sunlight

Compounds like hypericin in St. John's Wort heighten skin sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. It is best to avoid supplements during sunny seasons or before using tanning beds.

3. Possible Side Effects

While generally safe when used as directed, St. John's Wort can cause adverse reactions such as:

• Unexplained anxiety;
• Tingling or burning sensations in limbs;
• Dizziness and headaches;
• Increased fatigue;
• Dry mouth;
• Diarrhea;
• Lowered blood sugar levels;
• Stomach discomfort;
• Vivid, restless dreams.

Additionally, this "herb for 99 ailments" is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its effects on infants remain unknown.

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