300 mg · vegan · gluten-free · 100 caps
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St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) is a flowering plant in the Hypericaceae family, native to Europe and now naturalised worldwide including the Himalayas. Its aerial parts contain hypericin, hyperforin, flavonoids and xanthones. Standardised extracts (typically 0.3% hypericin) are among the most extensively studied herbal medicines for depression, with multiple meta-analyses supporting efficacy for mild-to-moderate major depressive disorder.
Hyperforin inhibits serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake — a triple reuptake mechanism distinct from SSRIs. It also modulates ionotropic glutamate receptors and downregulates β-adrenergic receptors. A 2017 network meta-analysis of 66 RCTs (15,161 participants) found St. John's Wort comparable to SSRIs for response and remission rates in mild-to-moderate depression, with lower dropout rates due to adverse effects.
Adults with mild-to-moderate depression seeking an evidence-based herbal alternative to prescription antidepressants. Those who have experienced SSRI side effects (sexual dysfunction, weight gain) and want a better-tolerated option. Not suitable for severe depression or bipolar disorder.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women. Individuals with severe depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Those with a history of photosensitivity or taking photosensitising medications. Not for children under 18 without psychiatric supervision. Side effects: Generally well-tolerated with lower adverse event rates than SSRIs in meta-analyses. Possible photosensitivity (especially at high doses), gastrointestinal upset, dry mouth, dizziness, restlessness and headache. May cause serotonin syndrome if combined with other serotonergic agents.
A plain-English read of the literature behind this supplement. Not a clinical recommendation.
Key citations: PMID 28064110 (network meta-analysis vs SSRIs, n=15,161), PMID 27468236 (meta-analysis of efficacy and acceptability), PMID 15684231 (Cochrane review of depression), PMID 10496508 (meta-analysis of well-defined trials)
SacredBod's longer take on St. John's Wort — context the structured blocks above don't capture.
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) is a flowering plant in the Hypericaceae family, native to Europe and now naturalised worldwide including the Himalayas. Its aerial parts contain hypericin, hyperforin, flavonoids and xanthones. Standardised extracts (typically 0.3% hypericin) are among the most extensively studied herbal medicines for depression, with multiple meta-analyses supporting efficacy for mild-to-moderate major depressive disorder.
Hyperforin inhibits serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake — a triple reuptake mechanism distinct from SSRIs. It also modulates ionotropic glutamate receptors and downregulates β-adrenergic receptors. A 2017 network meta-analysis of 66 RCTs (15,161 participants) found St. John’s Wort comparable to SSRIs for response and remission rates in mild-to-moderate depression, with lower dropout rates due to adverse effects.
Adults with mild-to-moderate depression seeking an evidence-based herbal alternative to prescription antidepressants. Those who have experienced SSRI side effects (sexual dysfunction, weight gain) and want a better-tolerated option. Not suitable for severe depression or bipolar disorder.
Typical dose: 300 mg per day
Form: capsules (100 count)
Best time: morning
With food: with-food
Expected onset: 2–4 weeks for mood improvement; full effect by 6–8 weeks
Cycling: No cycling required. Continuous daily use is standard for depression management.
Known side effects: Generally well-tolerated with lower adverse event rates than SSRIs in meta-analyses. Possible photosensitivity (especially at high doses), gastrointestinal upset, dry mouth, dizziness, restlessness and headache. May cause serotonin syndrome if combined with other serotonergic agents.
Who should avoid: Pregnant and breastfeeding women. Individuals with severe depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Those with a history of photosensitivity or taking photosensitising medications. Not for children under 18 without psychiatric supervision.
Avoid combining with: SSRIs (serotonin syndrome risk), MAOIs, Tricyclic antidepressants, Oral contraceptives (reduced efficacy), Warfarin (reduced INR), Cyclosporine (reduced levels), Digoxin (reduced levels), HIV protease inhibitors (CYP3A4 induction), Triptans, Stimulants
St. John’s Wort is available on Amazon India with varying brand quality. When selecting a product, verify standardization claims against the evidence base cited above. Indian brand preferences include Carbamide Forte, HealthyHey, Nutrabay Pure, Pure Nutrition, Now Foods, Nutricost, Himalaya, Patanjali, Dabur, Trexgenics, Evorina, Nervana, and Life Extension. Prices vary significantly; compare cost-per-active-dose rather than capsule count alone.
Schedule status in India: Not a Schedule H drug; available as dietary supplement/herbal product.
Key citations: PMID 28064110 (network meta-analysis vs SSRIs, n=15,161), PMID 27468236 (meta-analysis of efficacy and acceptability), PMID 15684231 (Cochrane review of depression), PMID 10496508 (meta-analysis of well-defined trials)
Evidence grade: A — n=15,161 in largest network meta-analysis (2017); multiple Cochrane reviews
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