10 Possible Side Effects Of Hypericum Perforatum (St John'S Wort)

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, has some side effects when used improperly, such as dizziness, fatigue, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

These side effects are caused by the herb's interaction with certain medications, including blood thinners and antidepressants.

If not managed properly, these side effects can worsen daily life, leading to decreased productivity, social isolation, and strained relationships due to irritability and mood swings.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Hypericum perforatum if used imporperly.

1. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, causes allergic reactions due to the presence of hyperforin and hypericin, its active compounds.

These substances can trigger an immune response, leading to symptoms such as hives, itching, and skin rashes in some individuals who are sensitive to them.

The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is thought that the allergenic potential of Hypericum perforatum may be attributed to its ability to stimulate the release of histamine from mast cells.

2. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, induces diarrhea due to its ability to interact with certain medications and alter the normal gut bacteria.

The herb contains compounds that can stimulate bowel movements and reduce water absorption in the intestines, leading to loose stools or watery stools.

This side effect is often seen when taking Hypericum perforatum in combination with other medications, such as antidepressants, which can further disrupt gut function.

3. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, stimulates stomach upset due to its ability to inhibit the action of serotonin and dopamine in the brain.

This can lead to increased gut motility and secretion of gastric acid, causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

Additionally, Hypericum perforatum may also disrupt the normal balance of gut bacteria, further exacerbating digestive issues.

4. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, increases heart rate by stimulating the production of certain enzymes in the body.

This can lead to a rise in heart rate and blood pressure due to its ability to enhance the activity of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that regulates heart function.

Additionally, Hypericum perforatum can increase the levels of oxygen in the bloodstream, further contributing to an increased heart rate.

5. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, triggers anxiety attacks due to its potential interaction with serotonin levels in the brain.

The herb may cause a rapid increase in serotonin, leading to feelings of heightened alertness and agitation. This can subsequently manifest as anxiety attacks or panic disorder symptoms in some individuals.

Additionally, Hypericum perforatum may also stimulate the nervous system, contributing to increased heart rate and blood pressure, further exacerbating anxiety symptoms.

6. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, produces nausea symptoms in some individuals due to its active compound hyperforin, which affects the gut and brain chemistry.

The herb is believed to alter serotonin levels, leading to gastrointestinal distress and stomach upset.

Additionally, the saponins present in St John's Wort may cause inflammation of the digestive tract, further contributing to nausea and discomfort.

7. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, enhances photosensitivity risk due to its ability to stimulate the production of melanin in skin cells.

As a result, users may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburns and other adverse effects.

This is caused by the herb's chemical composition, which includes hyperforin and hypericin, which can react with UV radiation to produce free radicals that damage skin cells.

8. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, causes skin irritation due to its high concentration of hypericins and flavonoids.

These compounds can stimulate an allergic response or cause a phototoxic reaction when the plant is applied topically, leading to redness, itching, and inflammation on the skin.

This side effect is often attributed to the chemical composition of the plant, which can interact with the skin's natural oils and cause an adverse reaction in some individuals.

9. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, activates serotonin syndrome by inhibiting the activity of cytochrome P450 2D6 and 3A4 enzymes in the liver.

This inhibition allows for an increased concentration of serotonin in the body, which can lead to toxic levels and subsequent symptoms of serotonin syndrome.

The St John's Wort extracts contain hyperforin and hypericin, which are responsible for this enzymatic inhibition and subsequent serotonin buildup.

10. Induces vomiting episodes

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, leads to liver damage due to its ability to induce the breakdown of certain enzymes in the liver.

This increased enzyme activity can lead to an overload on the liver, causing damage and potentially leading to more serious complications.

Additionally, Hypericum perforatum has been shown to inhibit the action of certain medications that are metabolized by the liver, further contributing to its potential to cause liver damage.