When to take it
In the morning with food; the effect is judged after 4–6 weeks.
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OtherStrong evidence
St John's wort
Also known as: Hypericum perforatum
St John's wort is a herb whose extracts contain hyperforin and hypericin. For mild to moderate depressive symptoms it is one of the best-studied herbs, but it has many serious drug interactions.
What it is used for
- mild to moderate depressive symptoms – strong evidence from large reviews (efficacy comparable to some antidepressants), always after consulting your doctor
- mood and hot flushes in menopause – weak to moderate evidence
- topically for minor wounds and burns (oil) – weak evidence, traditional use
Forms and how they differ
standardised dry extract
doses in studies refer to standardised extracts (hyperforin, hypericin)
liquid extract and tincture
active content varies
tea
low and variable content, but drug interactions are still possible
St John's wort oil
for external use only
Pairs well with
Exercise, daylight, a regular sleep schedule.
Do not combine / separate
Do not combine with antidepressants, triptans, tramadol or 5-HTP (serotonin syndrome). It reduces the effect of hormonal contraception, blood thinners, immunosuppressants, digoxin, HIV drugs, some cancer drugs and many others – if you take any medicines, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Watch out for
Not suitable in pregnancy, breastfeeding or with bipolar disorder. If you take any medicines including contraception, consult your doctor. It is not a substitute for depression treatment.
Safety
It increases sensitivity to sunlight – protect your skin. Do not exceed the label dose.
Practical tip
Before starting, go through all your medicines with a pharmacist – interactions are the main risk with St John's wort.
Products containing St John's wort 1
St John's wort 1000 mgliquid extract · 1 000 mg / serving
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check St John's wort with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
AlfalfaNo evidenceAndrographisWeak evidenceAroniaWeak evidenceBarley grassWeak evidenceBee pollenWeak evidenceBeef organs (desiccated)Weak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.