Using St John’s Wort for Exercise Recovery
St John’s Wort is a supplement made from the flowers and leaves of Hypericum perforatum, a plant in the sunflower family. It has been used for centuries in herbal medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, headaches, muscle pain, and obsessive thoughts. It is most commonly used for skin treatment after exercise and as a natural antidepressant.
How Does St John’s Wort Work for Exercise Recovery?
A study done by the University of Rochester shows that taking St John’s Wort lessens muscle pain and speeds up the recovery time after exercise. This means that it is of immense benefit to you, especially if you exercise a lot to keep fit. It does this through several mechanisms, including acting as a COX inhibitor and an antioxidant.
By acting as a COX inhibitor, the supplement prevents the formation of prostaglandins, which cause pain and inflammation in injured muscles. On the other hand, when it acts as an antioxidant, it breaks down free radicals. These are chemicals formed during exercise that damage healthy cells. Therefore, it accelerates recovery and minimizes cellular damage done while exercising.
Benefits of St John’s Wort
As someone who enjoys working out, there are many reasons why you might want to take the supplement. Here are a few benefits of taking this remedy:
- Lessens muscle pain and promotes faster recovery after exercise. Often after hitting the gym or the track, you feel pain and soreness in your muscles. These are symptoms of fatigue caused by the lactic acid build-up and free radical damage to your muscle cells. Products like the recovery salve-sports roll-on, diminish the effects of this soreness and speed up your recovery time, which means you can go back to the gym sooner. The roll-on contains ingredients like Calendula, Arnica, St John’s Wort, infused organic sunflower oil, organic menthol crystals, and Organic beeswax.
- Acts as a damaged-skin remedy. Aside from helping you recover, you can use it as a natural skin treatment. It reduces inflammation and redness and also helps in the restoration of damaged skin. Another way to use it is for burns, aberrations, sunburns, and wound treatment. This leaves your skin feeling flawless.
- Reduces anxiety that comes with the workout. As your heart rate increases, so does your level of anxiousness. This can take away from the exercise itself. This herb has antianxiety properties, which will help you to remain calm and focused on your workout.
Side Effects and Precautions
The supplement is extremely safe. However, there are a few side effects that you may experience if you take too much of it. They include:
- Dry mouth and eyes
- Headaches
- Upset stomach
- Sensitivity to the sun
However, these effects are mild and short-lived. You can counter them by drinking more water. Do not overuse it. Instead, speak to your doctor about dosage.
Who Should Not Take This Supplement?
St John’s Wort is beneficial and essential to everyone who likes to keep fit. However, there are a few cases where you should take caution before taking it. These include:
- Pregnant women. Pregnant women should not use it because it can interfere with the health of the child, especially its weight. If you are pregnant, ensure you talk to your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.
- Anyone taking any other medication. Because this supplement acts as a blood thinner, people on any other prescription medication must avoid using it. If you are on medication, especially drugs for anxiety, it is crucial to check with your doctor before taking it.
Takeaway
St John’s Wort is an excellent supplement for those who like to exercise and take good care of themselves. It provides many benefits, including pain relief, faster recovery time, and healthier skin. It is also generally safe and effective. To place an order, contact us today.
