St. John's Wort: A Review of Phytotherapeutic and Allopathic Interactions Yuri França Da Costa, Diego Marques Moreira

Abstract

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) is a widely used medicinal plant in the treatment of mild to moderate depression, with extensive popularity among the population. Among its pharmacological activities, it functions as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, anti-obesity agent, as well as a wound healer, antiplatelet, and antidepressant. Despite its numerous benefits, St. John's Wort interacts with both allopathic and herbal medications, including certain antivirals, immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, contraceptives, kava-kava, among others, contrary to the popular belief that plant-based products only yield desirable effects. These interactions range from alterations in plasma concentration to serotonin syndrome, posing serious risks to users.