Last Updated on October 9, 2022 by theworldofsleepstaff
Sleeping can be difficult if you’re dealing with anxiety or depression. Hence, many people are now exploring natural remedies to help with sleep. St John’s wort is one of those remedies.
St John’s wort is a flowering plant used for centuries to treat various mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.
Here we will explore whether taking St John’s wort before bed can help you sleep better.
Note: The content provides general information and should not be taken as medical advice. As always, please consult with a licensed healthcare professional before starting any new diet or supplement regimen.
But First: What Exactly is St John’s Wort?
St John’s wort is a flowering plant used for centuries to treat various mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.
The plant contains several compounds that are thought to be responsible for its mood-boosting effects, including hyperforin and hypericin. These compounds work by affecting the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin.
You may find this herb easily these days in health stores and online as it’s growing with such popularity among people with sleeping problems.
Is It OK To Take St John’s Wort Before Bed?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual. For example, some people may find that taking St John’s wort before bed helps them sleep better, while others may not notice any difference.
If you’re considering taking St John’s wort before bed, you must talk to your doctor first. This is because the plant can interact with other medications you may be taking, and it’s not recommended for everyone.
For example, people taking antidepressants or other medications for mental health conditions should not take St John’s wort. This is because the two substances can interact and cause serious side effects.
What Are The Benefits Of Taking St John’s Wort Before Bed?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual. But here are the potential benefits that have been associated with taking St John’s wort before bed:
1. It May Help You Sleep Better
Taking St John’s wort before bed may help if you’re struggling to sleep. This is because the plant contains compounds that can act on neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin.
Serotonin is known as the “happy hormone” because it’s responsible for regulating mood. But it also plays a role in sleep. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to insomnia and other sleep problems.
So, by increasing serotonin levels, St John’s wort may help to improve sleep quality.
No wonder this is a popular choice for those looking for a natural remedy for insomnia.
2. It May Help Reduce Anxiety
Taking St John’s wort before bed may help you relax and sleep better if you’re dealing with anxiety. This is because the plant contains compounds that can act on neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin.
As we mentioned above, serotonin is known as the “happy hormone” because it’s responsible for regulating mood. But it also plays a role in reducing anxiety. Conversely, low serotonin levels have been linked to anxiety and other mental health conditions.
With sleeping and anxiety often going hand-in-hand, it’s no surprise that this natural remedy is becoming increasingly popular.
Read our previous article on tips to help you get to sleep if suffering with anxiety.
3. It May Help Reduce Depression
If you’re dealing with depression and trying to sleep, taking St John’s wort before bed may help. Depression can make sleeping difficult, and inadequate sleep can make depression worse.
So, if you’re looking for a natural way to improve your sleep and reduce depression, this may be the answer.
St John’s wort is popular for those dealing with depression because it contains compounds that can act on neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin.
These compounds work by increasing serotonin levels, which can help to improve mood and reduce depression.
4. It May Help Boost Your Immune System
If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your immune system, taking St John’s wort before bed may help. This is because the plant contains compounds that can act on neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin.
This herb increases the levels of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infection. So, by taking St John’s wort before bed, you may be able to help your body fight off infection and disease.
Many people now take this herb as a preventative measure against colds and flu.
5. It May Help Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or disease. But chronic inflammation can lead to several health problems, such as heart disease, arthritis, and cancer.
If you’re looking for a natural way to reduce inflammation, taking St John’s wort before bed may help. This is because the plant has been known to contain compounds that can act on neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin.
Although inflammation is a complex process, serotonin is thought to play a role in it. This is because serotonin is known to have anti-inflammatory effects.
So, by increasing serotonin levels, St John’s wort may help to reduce inflammation.
6. It May Help Improve Digestion
If you’re struggling with digestion before going to bed, taking St John’s wort may help.
Serotonin plays a role in the digestive process, and low levels of it have been linked to gastrointestinal problems like constipation, diarrhoea, and irritable bowel syndrome.
We all know that digestion and sleep are closely linked. So, by taking St John’s wort before bed, you may be able to improve your digestion and sleep better.
Recommended: Foods To Avoid With Insomnia
7. It May Help Reduce Menopause Symptoms
If you’re dealing with menopause and trying to sleep, taking St John’s wort before bed may help. Menopause can cause several symptoms that make it difficult to sleep, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
Some say this herb may help reduce menopause symptoms compared to tablets, but more research is needed to confirm this.
8. It May Have Antioxidant Effects
Antioxidants are substances that can protect your cells from damage. They do this by neutralizing free radicals, which are harmful compounds that can lead to cell damage.
If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your antioxidant levels, taking St John’s wort before bed may help.
Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, as they may interact with your medications.
9. It May Help Relieve Stress
If you’re struggling with stress and trying to sleep, taking St John’s wort before bed may help. Stress can make sleeping difficult, and inadequate sleep can worsen stress.
We all know that stress can have a severe impact on our health. It can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and anxiety. St John’s wort may be worth a try if you struggle to manage stress.
A small study found that St John’s wort was as effective as the prescription medication imipramine for treating stress. Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that’s used to treat depression and anxiety.
While the study was small, it’s promising that St John’s wort may be an effective natural treatment for stress. So if you’re struggling with stress, talk to your doctor about whether taking St John’s wort before bed is right for you.
What Are The Side Effects Of Taking St John’s Wort Before Bed?
If you’re considering taking St John’s wort before bed, you must talk to your doctor first. But here are the common side effects to be aware of:
1. It May Cause Drowsiness
Drowsiness is one of the most common side effects of taking St John’s wort. So, if you’re taking it before bed, this may help you sleep. But if you’re taking it during the day, it may make you feel sleepy.
If you experience drowsiness, avoiding driving or operating heavy machinery is best.
2. It May Cause an Upset Stomach
Another common side effect of taking St John’s wort is an upset stomach. If you experience this, it’s best to take the herb with food.
You may also want to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as your body gets used to the herb.
3. It May Cause Headaches
Headaches are another common side effect of taking St John’s wort. If you experience a headache, it’s best to drink plenty of fluids and take ibuprofen if needed.
You may also want to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as your body gets used to the herb.
4. It May Cause Photosensitivity
Some people may experience photosensitivity when taking St John’s wort. This means that they may be more sensitive to sunlight.
If you experience this side effect, staying out of the sun and wearing sunscreen when you are outside is essential.
Tips For Taking St John’s Wort Before Bed
Here are a few tips to keep in mind if you’re taking St John’s wort before bed:
1. Start with a lower dose and increase as needed.
2. Take the herb with food to avoid an upset stomach.
3. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
4. If you experience headaches, take ibuprofen if needed.
5. If you experience photosensitivity, stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen.
6. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, as they may interact with your medications.
When Should You Avoid Taking St John’s Wort?
Some people should avoid taking St John’s wort. If you have any of the following conditions, it’s best to talk to your doctor before taking this herb:
If taking medication for depression:
If you’re currently taking medication for depression, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking St John’s wort. The herb may interact with your medication and cause serious side effects.
If taking medication for anxiety:
If you’re currently taking medication for anxiety, it might be wise to review this with your physician or a qualified health professional you are seeing.
If taking medication for ADHD:
This herb could affect your medications if you have ADHD, so it is prudent to consult your current doctor.
If taking medication for cancer:
Cancer medications may have high risks if you add this herb to your daily routine.
If taking medication for heart disease:
Heart medications might be at high risk for this herb; please talk with your doctor to know you are safe and doing the right thing.
This list is not exhaustive and everyone must talk to their doctor before starting a new supplement.
FAQs
When should I take St John’s wort, morning or night?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as everyone’s sleep patterns and needs differ. For example, some people find that taking St John’s wort in the morning helps them feel more energetic during the day, while others find that taking it at night helps them sleep better. If you’re unsure which is best for you, it may be worth trying both and seeing which works better for you.
Does St John’s wort help insomnia?
Evidence suggests that St John’s wort can help with insomnia, although more research is needed. So if you’re struggling to sleep, it may be worth taking St John’s wort a few hours before bedtime to see if it makes a difference.
Is there anything I should avoid taking St John’s wort with?
St John’s wort can interact with several other medications, so it’s essential to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it. In addition, avoid taking St John’s wort if you’re taking any other medication for depression, anxiety or sleep problems. It’s also best to avoid alcohol while taking St John’s wort.
Can St John’s wort cause sleepiness?
St John’s wort can cause sleepiness in some people, so it’s best to take it at night if you’re looking for a natural way to help with insomnia. However, if you find St John’s wort makes you tired during the day, it’s best to avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
The Bottom Line
Evidence suggests that St John’s wort may help with insomnia, although more research is needed. So if you’re struggling to sleep, it may be worth taking St John’s wort a few hours before bedtime to see if it makes a difference.
Just be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist first, as St John’s wort can interact with several other medications.