Mood Support
St. John's Wort
Also known as: Hypericum perforatum, Hypericum, St. John's Wort (Menopause Mood), Hypericin
St. John's Wort is a traditional herbal supplement used primarily for mood support, with moderate clinical evidence supporting its efficacy for mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms comparable to some conventional antidepressants. However, it carries significant drug-herb interaction risks and variable standardization across commercial products.
Primary uses
- Mild depression
- Mood support
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Menopause mood
- Mild-moderate depression
- Anxiety (menopause)
- Mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms
- Emotional wellness
- Stress response
How it works
- Contains hypericin and hyperforin
- MAO inhibition and serotonin effects
- Multiple mechanisms
Dosage
- Typical range
- 300mg 3x daily (standardized)
- Timing
- With meals, divided
- With food
- Yes
- Duration
- 4-6 weeks for effect
- Special populations
- Mild depression, SAD
Forms
- Capsule
- Standardized extract
- Perika, Kira
- Powder extract· 70/100
- Tablet· 70/100
- Liquid extract· 70/100
- Tincture· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Photosensitivity
- GI upset
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
Contraindications
- Transplant patients (cyclosporine, tacrolimus)
- HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy
- Cancer patients on chemotherapy
- Patients on SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAOIs
- Patients on warfarin or anticoagulants
- Women using hormonal contraceptives
- Bipolar disorder (may trigger mania)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Known interactions
- Dangerwith SSRI
Combining St John's wort with any SSRI risks serotonin syndrome — a potentially fatal hyperserotonergic state.
- Dangerwith birth control
St John's wort reduces oral contraceptive effectiveness and has caused breakthrough bleeding and unintended pregnancies.
- Dangerwith cyclosporine
St John's wort substantially lowers cyclosporine levels and has caused documented transplant rejection.
Evidence notes
Strong evidence for mild-moderate depression
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
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Open the checkerMedical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.