St. John's wort herb/tops

Traditional Uses & Why Herbalists Value It

European herbalists use St. John's wort's flowering tops in oral extracts for mood-related practice and in infused oils for external skin care. These two preparation traditions differ in route and constituent exposure.

What Modern Research Has Found

Trials of defined St. John's wort extracts have found greater improvement than placebo in mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Findings vary by extract, and evidence for severe depression is limited. Drug interactions are a major practical constraint even where positive trial findings exist.

Plant Part, Preparation & Natural Constituents

Hyperforin and hypericins are studied constituents. St. John's wort can seriously alter the action of contraceptives and many prescription medicines, and combining it with serotonin-affecting drugs can be dangerous. It can also increase sensitivity to sunlight.

Products Containing This Ingredient

• Deep Heat Muscle Ointment (5 oz)

Related Reading

• Herbs for Depression: What People Have Turned To for Centuries

Sources & Further Reading

• NCCIH St. John's Wort >
• Systematic review of St. John's wort trials