ST. JOHN’S WORT

Common Names: Hypericum perforatum, Hypericum, Goatweed, God’s wonder plant, Witches herb

St. John’s wort is an herb with yellow flowers used in traditional European medicine. St. John’s wort supplements come as tablets, capsules, liquid extracts, and creams. In recent years, new research has discovered that St John's wort may reduce a few menopausal symptoms, namely hot flashes, and night sweats. St John's wort can also improve symptoms of anxiety, which commonly arises during the menopausal transition.

Purported Uses & Benefits

• Treat mild and moderate depression
• Treat anxiety
• Manage fatigue (feeling very tired or having less energy than usual)
• Treat insomnia (trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early)
• Manage symptoms caused by menopause (the permanent end of your menstrual cycles), such as hot flashes
• Treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
• Treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD — a condition that can cause unusual levels of hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors)
• Heal wounds

Side Effects

• Headache
• Nausea (feeling like you’re going to throw up)
• Dry mouth
• Abdominal (belly) discomfort
• Sleepiness
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight

REFERENCES

• St. John's Wort -- Purported Benefits, Side Effects & More
• Essential vitamins to support each stage of the menopause