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Asian Dogbane and the contraceptive pill
I am taking the contraceptive pill and so do not want to use St John’s Wort which I know can help with moderate depression but which I have also read can affect the hormone. Can you suggest an alternative please?
For those who are not aware that St John’s Wort is contraindicated if you take the pill, I should explain that this is because recent studies suggest the herb triggers the action of an enzyme called cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, which, in turn, adversely affects how the body metabolises a number of prescription drugs, including oral contraceptives.
New to the natural health market for those worried about the contraindications for St John’s Wort, (including those taking warfarin), is an antidepressant made from an Asian plant called Apocynum venetum. This plant is more commonly known as dogbane, which is easier to remember, but is not the same as the dogbane plant that grows in America.
Early trials suggest that while this herb shares some of the same key active agents as St John’s Wort – which is why it works equally well to boost mood - it does not contain those other chemicals that can cause problems with other medications.
For a small number of users, St John’s Wort can also cause increased photosensitivity - and again, Asian dogbane does not contain the chemical, limonene, which is thought to be the cause of this unwelcome side-effect.
In supplement form, Asian dogbane is sold as Venetron, which is now available exclusively in the UK from Victoria Health (0800 413 596). 60 capsules cost £19.95. Take two a day.