St. John's wort: these are the side effects

St. John's wort is a popular medication used for anxiety, depression and to lighten the mood. However, the natural remedy, especially in combination with other preparations, can trigger side effects.

Side effects of St. John's wort: drug interactions

The influence of the plant on other drugs is particularly dangerous.

• Medicines are broken down by the body more quickly through certain enzymes in St. John's wort or lose their effectiveness completely.
• The simultaneous intake of St. John's wort with cardiac medication, blood thinners, medication for AIDS, diabetes and the pill is particularly risky. Due to St. John's wort, these are no longer or less effective.
• However, the effects of medication are also increasing in some cases. This has been observed especially with antidepressants and can lead to a dangerous serotonin syndrome.
• The symptoms of too much serotin range from fever to muscle cramps and hallucinations. In severe cases, life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias as well as lung or kidney failure are at risk.
• If you are dependent on one medication, you should use another medication instead of St. John's wort.
• Never take St. John's wort with other medications at the same time, as the effect can then no longer be assessed.
• Consult with your doctor before self-medication.

Other undesirable effects of the medicinal plant

Aside from the strong interactions with other medications, St. John's wort can cause various side effects. We have put together the most common complaints for you.

• Preparations with St. John's wort can lead to indigestion.
• You may also notice dizziness.
• Side effects of the skin are itchy skin or a stronger tendency to sunburn.
• Taking St. John's wort can make you feel tired and restless.
• If you do not notice any side effects and take St. John's wort without additional medication, it is a good herbal alternative to chemical medication for mood disorders and inner unrest.
• St. John's wort is freely available in small doses, the doctor prescribes higher doses.

If you often feel stressed but don't want to take medication straight away, the next tip will show you how you can reduce stress.