St. John´s wort interactions with medicines

Abstract

Hypericum perforatum or St. John's wort is a plant that is indicated as a treatment for mild and moderate depression, which is commercialized as a medication and dietary supplement. Its high efficacy has been demonstrated, however, it presents a great deal of interactions with some medicines. Its accessibility is a potential risk that must be considered. For this reason, this article includes the scientific evidence of the interactions that must be taken into account. It is a possible adverse event that people should know, since the social perception that plant origin products are always safe or safer is incorrect. In control and education the role of doctors, nurses and especially chemists is essential.