St. John's Wort has no side effects because it's natural
9.0Strong
evidence
evidence
The Claim
It's a common belief that because St. John's Wort is a natural plant extract, it doesn't cause any side effects. People often assume that natural products are inherently safe and free from adverse interactions.
Origin
This myth is perpetuated by the natural health movement and marketing claims emphasizing the safety of herbal supplements.
What Science Says
Despite its natural origins, St. John's Wort can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, and dizziness. It can also interact with a wide range of medications, including birth control pills and antidepressants, due to its effect on liver enzymes. RCTs and pharmacological studies have documented these interactions extensively.
Verdict
False