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.
Evidence last reviewed: 20 Apr 2026
St. John's Wort has strong evidence supporting its use for reducing depressive symptoms, showing comparable efficacy to SSRIs with fewer side effects. However, its potential for drug interactions due to CYP3A4 induction is a significant consideration.
Mild-to-moderate depression treatmentAdults with mild-to-moderate depression · Meta-analysisHigh
St. John's Wort showed comparable efficacy to SSRIs with fewer side effects.
Depressive symptom reductionPatients with depression · Systematic reviewHigh
St. John's Wort demonstrated significant clinical efficacy in ameliorating depressive symptoms.
Drug interaction potentialGeneral population using herbal medicines · Systematic reviewHigh
St. John's Wort induces CYP3A4, affecting the plasma concentrations of various drugs.
Efficacy in mood disordersPatients with mood disorders · Systematic reviewModerate
St. John's Wort reduced depressive symptoms with fewer risks and side effects than conventional medications.
Forms & usage▾
Take 300 mg of standardized extract 2-3 times daily, preferably with meals.