Does St John’s Wort kill viruses? (3 mechanisms)

This article will discuss whether Saint John’s Wort can kill viruses. It will explain the mechanisms by which it can affect viruses and will explore research findings on this topic.

Furthermore, the article will mention the side effects and drug interactions of Saint John’s Wort. Finally, it will mention alternative medicinal herbs or plants that can also help treat viral infections.  

Does St John’s Wort kill viruses?

Yes, St. John’s Wort (SJW) acts as an anti-viral. It has shown effectiveness in managing various viral infections including infections with human immunodeficiency virus, Varicella Zoster virus, Herpes Simplex virus, and hepatitis B virus [1].

However, while St. John’s Wort is beneficial in treating viral infections, it can lead to various problems. It has various serious drug interactions and can interfere with the effectiveness of your other treatments. Thus, you must consult with your doctor before taking Saint John’s Wort for a viral infection.

How does St. John’s Wort affect viruses?

The table below explains the possible mechanisms by which Saint John’s Wort can affect viruses [1]:

What does research suggest?

Multiple studies have found the in vivo and in vitro activity of SJW against different viruses. For instance, in vitro studies found that hypericin possesses antiviral activities against herpes viruses, vesiculostomatitis virus, Sendai virus, and duck hepatitis B virus [1].

Research has also discovered that Hypericin entirely inactivates bovine diarrhea virus when exposed to light [1].

On the other hand, trials on humans found that Saint John’s Wort can battle HIV via various mechanisms. However, in patients with low CD4 counts (less than 350 cells per mm3), SJW didn’t show any activity against HIV [1].

It is also important to mention that hypericin didn’t show any antiviral effectiveness against hepatitis C virus at daily doses ranging from 0.05 mg/kg to 0.1 mg/kg [1].

What are the side effects of using SJW for viruses?

Before using St John Wort for viral infections, it is important to be aware of its possible side effects. Some of its side effects include diarrhea, insomnia, rash, vision problems, hearing problems, liver and kidney injuries, and reproductive problems [2].

St John’s Wort can also cause elevated blood pressure, mania, and stomach aches [2].

What are the drug interactions of St. John’s Wort?

It is also important to understand that taking SJW may decrease the efficacy of various concurrent medications.

To illustrate, SJW increases the activity of CYP3A4 enzymes in the liver and the intestines. This means that any drugs that are metabolized by these enzymes will be broken down faster. This will lead to a reduction in their activity [3].

The drugs that are commonly affected by SJW include warfarin, theophylline, ivabradine, digoxin, certain benzodiazepines, tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, oral contraceptives, certain anti-cancer drugs, protease inhibitors, and immunosuppressants like cyclosporine [3].

One serious interaction is the interaction between SJW and oral contraceptives; it decreases their efficacy and may lead to unplanned pregnancy.

Moreover, while some people take SJW for depression, it is important to consider that it can lead to serotonin syndrome if taken with antidepressants. For example, it is advisable to avoid taking SJW with Celexa or sertraline.

What other herbs can help kill viruses?

If Saint John’s Wort isn’t effective in treating your viral infection or interacts with the drugs you take, you may explore other herbs with anti-viral activities. 

Alternative herbs for Herpes simplex virus (HSV)

Some examples of herbs with anti-HSV effectiveness are mentioned below:

• Lemon balm contains caffeic acids, rosemaric acids, and ferulic acids, which are effective for HSV-1. It also has terpenoids, which prevent the replication of HSV-2.

• A combination of Sage and Chinese rhubarb has shown anti-HSV equivalent to that of acyclovir. The anthraquinones in Chinese rhubarb contribute to its virucidal effects.

• Heal All inhibits the binding of HSV to membrane receptors, preventing the entry of the virus into the cells. Applying it topically can help relieve herpetic lesions.

• Tannin-containing herbs can help with vesicles that are about to burst. Tannins adsorb proteins in the exudate.

• Red algae and pomegranate prevent the entry and replication of the virus in the cells. The terpene meliacine in chinaberry contributes to its viral keratitis-relieving properties.

• Some plants can enhance the immune system’s ability to fight viral infections, including Echinacea, ginseng, and ashwagandha.

Alternative herbs for chicken pox (Varicella zoster virus)

Other herbs that were found to be effective in managing chicken pox include lemon balm, Elder fruit, and Black Currant fruit. Liquorice can also be useful; its glycyrrhizin inhibits the penetration of the virus into human cells, preventing the infection [4].

Alternative herbs for HIV

Similarly, licorice can also be used for HIV infections. It was found that oral administration of glycyrrhizin enhances the immune system’s reaction against HIV and suppresses its replication of the virus. It can also be given intravenously to suppress the levels of HIV [5].

Reishi mushroom prevents the replication of the virus as well, as it acts as an HIV protease inhibitor. It additionally enhances the response of T helper cells.

The role of St. John’s Wort in viral infections

Based on my research, I found that Saint John’s Wort (SJW) has shown effectiveness in managing various viral infections, such as human immunodeficiency virus, Varicella Zoster virus, Herpes Simplex virus, and hepatitis B virus.

Based on my knowledge, it can act as an anti-viral by preventing viral entry into cells, disrupting the viral life cycle, and inactivating HIV replication. However, I believe that it’s important to note that SJW can have serious side effects, including diarrhea, insomnia, vision problems, and liver and kidney injuries.

It can also decrease the efficacy of concurrent medications. Therefore, I recommend consulting with a healthcare professional before taking SJW for a viral infection.

References