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ingestible · for mood & mild depression

St. John's Wort

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Linde et al. 2008 Cochrane review (PMID 18843608) - 29 RCTs (5,489 patients) found St. John's Wort superior to placebo for mild-to-moderate depression (RR 1.28, 95% CI 1.10-1.49) and similarly effective to standard antidepressants with significantly fewer side effects. Not effective for severe depression.$15-$30/month.

How to use

Take 300 mg of standardised extract (0.3% hypericin) three times daily (900 mg/day total) with food. Allow 4-6 weeks for full effect. Do not combine with prescription antidepressants. St. John's Wort is available as tablets, capsules, and liquid extract.

How it works

Active constituents hypericin and hyperforin inhibit reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine - a similar mechanism to conventional antidepressants. Hyperforin also modulates GABA and glutamate receptors. The combination of multiple neuroactive compounds likely explains its broad anxiolytic and mood-lifting effects.

Where to buy

Nature's Way Perika St. John's Wort ($15-$25/60 tablets), Jarrow Formulas ($15-$20/60 capsules), Solgar ($20-$30) - available at pharmacies and health food stores. Choose products standardised to 0.3% hypericin.

Typical cost: $15-$30/month.

Safety notes

CRITICAL DRUG INTERACTIONS: St. John's Wort is a potent inducer of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein. It significantly reduces the effectiveness of: oral contraceptives (risk of unintended pregnancy), antiretrovirals (HIV medications), cyclosporine (organ transplant rejection risk), warfarin, digoxin, some chemotherapy drugs, and many psychiatric medications. NEVER combine with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, or other antidepressants (risk of serotonin syndrome). May cause photosensitivity - use sun protection. Do not use in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always disclose to prescribing physicians.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Linde et al. 2008 - Cochrane Database (PMID 18843608)

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.