St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum
Family: Guttiferae | Parts Used: Flower and leaf
St. John's Wort is a bright, sun-loving herb with golden flowers, used in Western and European herbalism for mild depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder. Its compounds hypericin and hyperforin are studied for their effects on neurotransmitter systems. Applied topically, it soothes nerve pain and speeds healing of bruises, burns, and skin injuries. It is one of the more well-researched herbs in modern clinical literature.
Traditional Uses
- Anxiety and stress relief
- Mild depression support
- Seasonal affective disorder management
- Nerve damage support
- Emotional clarity during difficult periods
- Bruises, sprains, burns, and injuries (topical application)
- Soothing nerve pain topically
- Speeding healing of skin injuries
Properties
Key Constituents
Preparations & Dosage
- Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons herb in 1 cup boiling water, or 1 ounce dried herb per pint. Take up to 3 times daily.
- Tincture: 15-30 drops, up to 3 times daily.
- Topical: Flowers infused in oil or made into a salve for bruises, burns, and nerve pain.
TCM Profile: Cool, bitter.
Cautions
- May cause photosensitivity in some people. If a rash or skin irritation develops, discontinue use.
- If taking prescription medication, particularly antidepressants, check with your health care provider before using. St. John's Wort interacts with antidepressants, blood thinners, hormonal medications, immunosuppressants, and drugs metabolized by CYP450 enzymes.
- Avoid during pregnancy.
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Native to Europe, western Asia, and north Africa, now grown worldwide. Grows in US zones 5-9. Prefers full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soil.
Related Articles
Sources & Research
The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, p. 197
Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide, Rosemary Gladstar, p. 197
Published Research:
Hypericum perforatum: Traditional uses, clinical trials, and drug interactions | Iranian journal of basic medical sciences (2022)
Clinical use of Hypericum perforatum (St John's wort) in depression: A meta-analysis | Journal of affective disorders (2017)
St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) and depression: what happens to the neurotransmitter systems? | Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology (2022)
St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.): a review of its chemistry, pharmacology and clinical properties | The Journal of pharmacy and pharmacology (2001)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.