St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
St. John's Wort is an herbal antidepressant effective for treating mild-to-moderate depression, comparable to standard antidepressants. It interacts with many medications due to CYP3A4 induction.
depressionmoodanxietymental-health
Evidence last reviewed: 20 Apr 2026
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Biomarkers studied
Outcomes directly measured across the evidence records below
Cognitive
Mood / WellbeingAnxiety
Evidence
4 records
Mild-to-moderate depression treatment
Adults with mild-to-moderate depression • Meta-analysis
PUBMEDHigh
St. John's Wort showed comparable efficacy to SSRIs with fewer side effects.
Dose: 900 mg
Depressive symptom reduction
Patients with depression • Systematic review
PUBMEDHigh
St. John's Wort demonstrated significant clinical efficacy in ameliorating depressive symptoms.
Dose: 900 mg
Drug interaction potential
General population using herbal medicines • Systematic review
PUBMEDHigh
St. John's Wort induces CYP3A4, affecting the plasma concentrations of various drugs.
Dose: 900 mg
Efficacy in mood disorders
Patients with mood disorders • Systematic review
PUBMEDModerate
St. John's Wort reduced depressive symptoms with fewer risks and side effects than conventional medications.
Dose: 900 mg
Forms
Extract
Standardized to contain 0.3% hypericin or 2-5% hyperforin.
Capsule
Commonly used form for oral supplementation.
Tablet
Available in various dosages for ease of use.
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