Diet & Fitness 
Eat RightVitamins and SupplementsWhat's the deal with St. John's Wort?
Advertisement

What's the deal with St. John's Wort?

by Ms. Alyson Greenhalgh and Dr. Sara Kirk

question
What is St. John’s Wort and why is it such a hot topic?

answer
St. John’s Wort is a herbal supplement that has been found as effective as some conventional medicines in helping to relieve depression. However, side-effects include photosensitivity (the possibility of nerve damage or cataracts when exposed to sunlight), and possible interference with the effectiveness of some medications, including the oral contraceptive pill and medicine for asthma, epilepsy, depression, migraine and heart problems. If you are suffering from mild depression but don't want to take a conventional antidepressant, talk to your doctor about taking St. John's Wort.

Why not chat to other iVillagers about supplements on the Eating For Health message board. Take a look at some of the LIVE discussions happening now on the board:

iVillage TV - Diet & Fitness

View video in larger player
iVillage Recommends Yoga trousers
Most Viewed
  1. Getting fit
  2. Best foods for your diet
  3. Rosemary Conley
  4. Dinner ideas
  5. BMI calculator
  6. Nutrition Calculator
  7. Healthy snacks
  8. Weight Watchers points
  9. Watch fitness videos
  10. Kettlebells
Most Searched
  1. weight watchers uk
  2. powerplate
  3. healthy snacks
  4. bikini body
  5. weight watchers points
  6. diet
  7. how many calories in a shot of vodka
  8. fitness
  9. healthy eating plan
  10. british military fitness