St. John’s wort
This plant originates from Europe and has been long used to manage mild depression symptoms and the unpleasant effects of menopause, such as hot flashes. While this is a natural remedy that is shown to be efficient, it can interact with some types of medication, and this is why you should be careful.
For example, St. John’s wort can interfere with omeprazole, alprazolam, certain statins, and some antihistamines. If you are under treatment with any of these, it’s better to be aware because, besides amplifying the side effects, it can also lower their effectiveness.
Also, the effect of Paxlovid, an antiviral used to treat COVID-19, can be greatly reduced if you take St. John’s wort. If you take them together, your infection might go untreated, and this can mean life-threatening complications.
This is why you should talk with your doctor before taking any supplements. You never know for sure what the effects are and how to manage them. Better safe than sorry.
