⚠ Important caution: St. John’s wort interacts with many medicines, including birth control, blood thinners, antidepressants, HIV drugs, and transplant drugs. It can make some medicines stop working or cause dangerous reactions. Never combine it with antidepressants. It can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before use.
Common name: St. John's Wort
Latin name: Hypericum perforatum
Parts commonly used: flower, aerial parts
About St. John's Wort
St. John’s Wort is one of the herbs many Americans ask about, so Herbalist Kareem has included it in this guide for your education. Below you will find a short, plain-language overview of how this herb has traditionally been used, how people commonly enjoy it, and the safety points everyone should know before adding it to a daily routine.
Traditional uses
St. John’s wort is a European flower traditionally used to support a balanced mood.*
Traditional use describes how people and cultures have worked with a plant over many generations. It is a valuable part of herbal knowledge, but it is not the same as medical proof, and every body responds differently.
How it is commonly enjoyed
Usually taken as a tea or capsule. Start with small amounts, follow the directions on the product label, and pay attention to how your body responds. Herbs work best as part of a balanced lifestyle that includes whole foods, water, movement, and rest.
Safety notes
Important caution: This is an herb that calls for extra care. Please read the safety notes below carefully and speak with a qualified healthcare provider before use.
St. John’s wort has serious interactions with many medicines, including birth control, blood thinners, HIV drugs, transplant drugs, and antidepressants, which can make them stop working or cause dangerous reactions.
As with any herb: avoid it if you have a known allergy to the plant or its plant family, ask your doctor or pharmacist before use if you take prescription medications, and talk with your provider before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or giving herbs to a child. Stop use and seek medical care if you notice any unusual reaction.
What researchers are studying
Scientists continue to study St. John's Wort. One example from the published literature is a scientific review:
(2004). Monograph. Hypericum perforatum. Alternative medicine review : a journal of clinical therapeutic.
Research like this is often early, small, or done in the lab, and it does not prove that St. John's Wort treats or prevents any condition. We share it so you can see that this herb is a subject of ongoing scientific interest.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always talk with a qualified healthcare provider before using herbs, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or managing a health condition.