HerbsRx
Strong evidence

St. John's Wort

Hypericum perforatum flowers contain hyperforin and hypericin. Hyperforin acts as a broad-spectrum monoamine reuptake inhibitor, increasing synaptic concentrations of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, GABA, and L-glutamate, effectively elevating mood and relieving neurogenic pain.

What St. John's Wort is used for

  • Mild to Moderate Depression
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
  • Nerve Pain
  • Sciatica
  • Neuralgia
  • Menopausal Mood Swings

Pharmaceuticals St. John's Wort is studied as a natural alternative to

  • Prozac (Fluoxetine)
  • Zoloft (Sertraline)
  • Lexapro (Escitalopram)
  • Cymbalta (Duloxetine)

Educational information only — never stop or change a prescribed medication without talking to your prescriber first.

Safety and warnings

⚠️

MAJOR DRUG INTERACTIONS: Potently induces cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) and P-glycoprotein, drastically lowering blood levels of oral contraceptives (birth control), immunosuppressants (cyclosporine), anticoagulants (warfarin), and HIV medications. NEVER combine with prescription antidepressants due to risk of Serotonin Syndrome. May cause photosensitivity.

Evidence level: Strong

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