2 replies to this topic

[j03]

A common side effect of St. John's Wort is photosensitivity which can lead to cataracts. There are a few anecdotal claims that New Chapter's St John's SC27 does not cause photosensitivity like other strains of St. John's Wort.

SC27 is almost pure hyperforin, with trace amounts of the whole plant. Perika and Kira contains a large amount of the other components that make up St. John's Wort (hypericin). It's the hypericin that is responsible for the photosensitivity some claim.

I have not found any studies or evidence confirming that SC27 won't cause photosensitivity and an email to New Chapter didn't get an answer to that question, just a reply that it's effective for mood, etc.

So, does SC27 cause photosensitivity? Is the risk lower than other brands?

Edited by j03, 03 December 2011 - 02:32 AM.

[Want_more_hair]

I have experienced photo sensitivity with hypericin rich extracts (cheap brand though).

[SocietyOfMind]

I can't answer your question regarding SC27. However, I personally cannot take St John's Wort in summer at all - my skin ends up very red and damaged with even moderate sun.