St John's Wort information page

The herb St John's Wort is a very popular ingredient in over-the-counter supplements in Europe for the treatment of anxiety and depression, but includes a host of other health benefits as well.

St John's Wort is required for

St John's wort, (Hypericum perforatum) has been used for the past 2,000 years as a medicinal herb, and has today become popular again since it has few side effects and contra-indications. It has been used to great effect in the treatment of minor depression, tension and anxiety, but is also used to fight bacterial and viral infections, assists as an anti-inflammatory, a mild analgesic as well as a mild diuretic. REFERENCE

Saint John's Wort has also been used in assisting with insomnia, neurosis, neuralgia, tinnitus, bruising, rheumatic pain and inflammation as well as aiding in wound healing.

The use of St John's Wort to treat bruises and to assist with wound healing has not been thoroughly tested clinically, but is an historical use of this herb.

Some people however find that it does not have a relaxing effect alone, but find it sedating - and in this instance those so affected would be advised to take this product at bed time, and not during the day.

Although it is not certain which active component in St John's Wort is responsible for its properties, it does contain polycyclic phenols, hypericin, pseudo hypericin, flavonoids (hyperoside, quercetin, isoquercitrin, rutin) kaempferol, luteolin, biapigenin and hyperforim.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

Large dosages may induce photosensitivity (sun sensitivity) in certain people, and those finding this effect would be well advised to reduce their dosage.

It has also been reported that very large dosages may interfere with the absorption of iron and some other minerals, and may also be contra-indicated for people taking cyclosporine - a drug given to prevent rejection when organ transplants are done, as well as for patients suffering from HIV / AIDS since it could also interfere with the AIDS drugs given.

Some female individuals have also found that St John's Wort interfere with the effectiveness of their birth control medication.

Other interesting points

Women have found relief from PMS, specifically cramping, when taking this ingredient.

St John's Wort is contained in the following Zest for Life products

Millenium 2000 - Slimming and weight-loss capsules

• Click here to view our full product range.

Our products

	Adaptogens. Balance and help us cope with stresses.
	Anti-aging supplement. Helps to fight the signs and symptoms of ageing.
	Antioxidants. Fight ageing, degenerative disease and free radicals.
	Apple cider vinegar capsules with Gotu Kola. The trusted folk remedy.
	BodyGuard. Immune boost formula.
	Enzymes. Required for metabolic processes.
	Millenium 2000. Slimming capsules to make dieting easy.
	OystaCal. The best organic and bio-available calcium.
	Phytosterols. Plant chemicals to boost your system.
	Hair, Skin and Nail Formula. The best formula for improving your looks.
	Vitalyze. Your high-energy boost to live life with vigor and stress-buster.
	Vuka 2000. The most advanced sexual supplement.

Nutritional information

Here are some information page on which you can read more about a specific nutrient and the role it plays in our general well-being. Please note - We do not use or sell all of these compounds but include the information for the benefit of our clients and visitors. To visit our selection of vitamin products please click here.