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Concerns About Side Effects from St. John's Wort
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Mental & Emotional Health
Question #24823
45 days ago
120

Concerns About Side Effects from St. John's Wort - #24823

Naffre

Hello, As someone who is very anxious and stressed, and prone to occasional irritability, my doctor recommended St. John's wort. I've been taking it for two weeks, not very regularly, about once every two or three days, rarely even on a regular schedule. Since then, I've noticed strong side effects such as extreme mood swings, sudden loss of motivation and interest, fatigue and weakness, anxiety, sadness, and general malaise. Can you tell me if you think this is the cause? Is it dangerous? Should I stop taking it? Thank you for your answers.

How severe are the side effects you are experiencing?:

- Moderate, affecting daily life

Have you taken any other medications or supplements during this time?:

- Yes, one or two

Have you experienced similar symptoms in the past?:

- Yes, occasionally
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Doctors' responses

Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
45 days ago
5

Hello dear See anxiety issues and mood swings are typically associated with the st john wort Theses medication act on brain and there fore cause these type of symptoms Please donot worry. For improvement follow below precautions Do meditation Do exercise Avoid overthinking Take balanced diet Avoid junk food In case of modification in medication consult with concerned physician only Regards

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St. John’s wort is an herb often used for mild to moderate depression, but it does come with a range of potential side effects and interactions. What you’re describing—mood swings, loss of motivation, fatigue, increased anxiety, and general malaise—can indeed be side effects of St. John’s wort, especially if taken inconsistnetly. It’s important to note that this supplement can also interact with many other medications, reducing their effectiveness or increasing their side effects, so it’s crucial to consider any other medications or supplements you’re using. If you’re experiencing such pronounced symptoms, it may be wise to stop taking St. John’s wort and consult with your doctor as soon as possible. They can evaluate whether these symptoms are indeed linked to the supplement or if there’s another underlying reason for them. They might suggest an alternative approach to managing your anxiety and stress, perhaps considering different medications or therapeutic options that would be better suited for you. Also, be cautious about adjusting dosages on your own without medical advice, as this can lead to unpredictable results. The decision about whether or not to continue using the supplement should be made in close consultation with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe in the context of your overall health picture.

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