“When you hear the name of this plant in pharmacies, you panic!” reveals a pharmacist

St. John’s wort (Hypericus perforated) is a star plant in herbal medicine. This plant, with its pretty yellow flowers, is known for its antidepressant properties and has also demonstrated effectiveness against stress, anxiety, insomnia, and even certain chronic pain conditions.

St. John’s wort must be handled with extreme caution.

Yes, but here it is: St. John’s Wort is a powerful plant… that must be handled with extreme care. “When you hear the name of this plant in pharmacies, you panic!” reveals pharmacist Dr. Tuglma in a video recently posted on Instagram.

“St. John’s Wort Gifts There is a risk of drug interaction with absolutely all molecules that are available in the pharmacy – or almost. In particular, interactions with contraceptives, anticoagulants and antidepressants are known. In addition, there are many Contraindications with St. John’s wort and just as muchSide effects and from
Instructions to follow.“

A light-sensitive plant that requires good sun protection

St. John’s wort is a particularly light-sensitive plant. This means that “This natural supplement, taken orally or applied to the skin, can make the skin more sensitive to the sun and cause the risk of sunburn and spots” says Dr. Tuglma.

If you take St. John’s wort (of course in consultation with your doctor: there is no question of self-medication with such a powerful plant!), the pharmacist will give you some advice to protect your skin from burns caused by UV rays: “Apply sunscreen with SPF 50+
for each edition and Also rely on clothing protection (long sleeves, hat, legs covered). Ideal, Avoid all exposure to sunlight 8 hours later Having consumed and/or applied St. John’s wort.”

A final warning? “Never take St. John’s Wort if you are taking other medications (including birth control pills!) and check with your doctor regularly to make sure you can continue taking it!“