St John's Wort

[eash]

Why shouldn't St John's Wort be used if on the Pill? What harm can it do? Does it stop the Pill from being effective?

[mullein2]

st johns wort has to be used with caution if you are on medication..it can stop medication working..i havnt heard that it stops the pill working but i am sure you must have read it somewhere..a friend of mine who had cancer took it and combined with his medication he was hallucinating..i take it daily and its fine but i dont take any medicine on prescription..

[ondemania]

it shouldnt be taken with the pill. not entirely sure why not. but it stops the pill from being as effective.

[mullein2]

the chemical content of it is...flavonoids..hypericins..essential oil..and the actions of it are....alterative..astringent..antiviral..relaxing nervine..anti depressant..sedative..anti inflammatory..cardio tonic..and analgesic when used external..

[Sasha13]

"It is not advisable to take St John's Wort together with the contraceptive pill as it has an effect on liver enzymes, which can mean the pill's hormones are broken down more quickly. This could lead to breakthrough bleeding or accidental pregnancy. Although the risk is probably low, it is wise to stick to the instructions and not take both together"

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/health/experts/askdoctor/qas/0 ,,549123_606305,00.html