Hypericum perforatum

St. John's Wort

Hypericaceae

Evidence: ModerateCaffeine Free EuropeRelaxationMoodStress

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Identity

Common Name: St. John's Wort
Scientific Name: Hypericum perforatum
Botanical Family: Hypericaceae
Native Region: Europe and Asia
Cultivation Regions: Europe, North America, Asia, Australia
Plant Parts Used: Aerial parts, Flowering tops
Synonyms: Hypericum, Klamath Weed, Tipton's Weed
Caffeine Level: Caffeine Free

An erect perennial 30-80 cm tall with opposite oval leaves held to light showing translucent oil glands, and flat-topped clusters of bright yellow five-petalled flowers with many bushy stamens dotted with black glands.

Historical Background

St. John's wort has been a revered European healing herb since antiquity, named for the feast of St. John the Baptist near which it blooms. Its golden, oil-dotted flowers were infused in oil for a red healing salve, and the plant has long been used to lift the spirits. Today it is among the most studied herbal mood remedies.

Earliest recorded uses: Greek and medieval European medicine; named for St. John the Baptist (blooms near his feast day); a traditional mood herb.

Traditional preparations:

Aerial-part infusion
Red oil infusion (topical)
Mood blends with lemon balm

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Traditional European Herbalism

Nervine for low mood, wounds, and seasonal melancholy.

Modern Herbalism

Mood-supporting nervine (with major drug-interaction caution).

Flavor & Aroma

HerbalWarmBalsamicSlightly Bitter

Aroma: Herbal, warm, balsamic, slightly bitter

Tea Information

Suitable for Tea

Yes

Preparation Methods

Infusion

Steeping Temperature

200°F (93°C)

Steeping Time

10 minutes (covered)

Recommended Vessel

Covered teapot

Blends Well With

Lemon Balm, Oatstraw, Skullcap, Lavender, Rose

200°F (93°C) 10 minutes (covered)

Safety & Cautions

Contraindications

Major drug interactions — avoid with many prescription drugs, SSRIs/SNRIs, MAO inhibitors, warfarin, digoxin, oral contraceptives, immunosuppressants, and photosensitizing drugs. Avoid in bipolar disorder, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and before surgery. Can cause photosensitivity.

Drug Interactions

Numerous clinically significant interactions — strongly induces CYP3A4/P-glycoprotein, reducing levels of many drugs (antidepressants, contraceptives, warfarin, digoxin, antiretrovirals, immunosuppressants); serotonin syndrome risk with antidepressants. Consult a clinician before use with ANY medication.

Pregnancy

Avoid medicinal doses.

Children

Not recommended for children without professional supervision.

Allergies

Possible in those sensitive to Hypericaceae/Clusiaceae; rare rash.

Known Adverse Effects

Generally well tolerated; may cause GI upset, dry mouth, restlessness, or photosensitivity (sunburn) at higher doses. Stopping suddenly after long use may rarely cause withdrawal-like symptoms.

Research Summary

Evidence Level: Moderate

St. John's wort has the strongest clinical evidence of most herbs for mild-to-moderate low mood, with trials comparing it to standard antidepressants. However, it has clinically significant drug interactions that can reduce the effectiveness of many medications. It is not a substitute for professional care and must be discussed with a clinician.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources

NCCIH · St. John's Wort (2023)
MSKCC · St. John's wort information (2022)

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