Medical professionals are sounding the alarm over a popular herbal supplement found in countless health stores and pharmacies across the UK. St John's Wort, widely taken for mood support and mild depression, has been linked to potentially fatal heart complications.
The Hidden Cardiac Danger
Consultant cardiologist Dr Neil Srinivasan has issued a stark warning about the supplement's ability to disrupt normal heart rhythm. "St John's Wort can cause a condition called QT prolongation," he explains. "This electrical disturbance in the heart can lead to sudden, dangerous arrhythmias that may prove fatal if not treated immediately."
Dangerous Medication Interactions
The risks extend beyond direct heart effects. St John's Wort is known to interfere with numerous prescription medications, potentially rendering them ineffective. The supplement particularly affects:
- Blood thinners like warfarin
- Epilepsy medications including carbamazepine
- Transplant rejection drugs
- Certain cancer treatments
- Contraceptive pills, risking unintended pregnancy
Why This Warning Matters Now
With supplement use soaring post-pandemic and many people self-medicating for stress and anxiety, experts fear a growing public health crisis. The accessibility of St John's Wort - available without prescription and often perceived as "natural and safe" - creates a perfect storm for potential harm.
What You Need to Know
If you're currently taking St John's Wort, medical advice is clear:
- Do not stop abruptly if using for depression - consult your GP first
- Always inform healthcare providers about all supplements you're taking
- Be aware of symptoms like dizziness, palpitations, or fainting
- Consider alternative approaches to mental wellness under medical guidance
The message from healthcare professionals is unequivocal: what seems like a harmless natural remedy could be putting your heart at serious risk.
