St. John's Wort

Excerpt

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an invasive, flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. Its primary use is as an over-the-counter anti-depressive or anxiolytic. Anti-depressives with similar effects are also used to treat menopausal somatic symptoms, so St. John's wort has also been used to treat these symptoms, as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavioral issues, and psoriasis. The herbal supplement has not been given FDA approval and is considered a dietary supplement. This activity examines the uses, potential indications, contraindications, and interactions of this supplement so that healthcare providers can address it when it presents in their practice.