<s>[INST] Hi, I was researching St. John s wort and apparently it blocks the absorption of iron so people shouldnt use iron supplements while using St. John s wort. Does it also block the iron from the food I eat? If so, how would I get the iron my body needs? [/INST] Hi, Yes, it may block the absorption of iron. St. Johns wort may interfere with the absorption of the iron supplements as well as the iron present in the food if taken together. Presence of other foods in the stomach may also reduce the iron absorption. Therefore, iron should be taken 2 hours before, or 4 hours after taking St. Johns wort. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  </s>