The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

St. John's Wort and Depression

St. John's wort can be a herbal alternative in mild depression but should be used cautiously due to serious drug interactions.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department. Book Appointment →

What is St. John's Wort and Depression?

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a herbal preparation that has been found effective in some studies for mild-to-moderate depression.

Through induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4, CYP1A2) and P-glycoprotein, it can lower levels of anticoagulants (warfarin), oral contraceptives, cyclosporine, and some antiretroviral and anticancer drugs.

It should not be combined with SSRIs or MAO inhibitors due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. It cannot replace standard psychiatric treatment in severe depression, suicidal ideation or bipolar disorder.

Symptoms

Mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms
Menopausal symptoms (limited evidence)
Seasonal affective disorder
General fatigue (low evidence)
Sleep problem support
Anxiety (limited evidence)
Quality of life support

Risk Factors

Use of SSRI or MAOI (serious contraindication)
Oral contraceptive (decreased efficacy)
Warfarin, digoxin (decreased levels)
Antiretroviral and oncology drugs
Photosensitivity
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Risk of mania in bipolar disorder

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Do not use without psychiatric or medical supervision
  • Always report all medications you are taking
  • Professional treatment is essential in severe depression
  • Suicidal ideation is an emergency, seek help immediately

Treatment Methods

01
Assessment of severity of depression
02
Drug interaction screening
03
Standardized extract (hypericin/hyperforin)
04
Daily doses of 300-900 mg
05
Clinical response monitoring (4-6 weeks)
06
Treatment discontinuation plan
07
Collaboration with psychiatry

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Acupuncture

Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp

Acupuncture, in which fine needles are applied to specific points, is a method of demonstrated efficacy in chronic pain, migraine, and nausea.

Cupping Therapy (Hijama)

Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp

Dry and wet cupping is used within the framework of traditional medicine for muscular pain, myofascial pain, and certain metabolic complaints.

Ozone Therapy

Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp

Medical ozone is used within the field of traditional medicine for wound healing, chronic infections, and certain metabolic conditions.

Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine)

Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp

Phytotherapy refers to the evidence-based use of standardized herbal products; drug interactions must be considered.

Mesotherapy

Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp

Mesotherapy is a minimally invasive method used in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain, cellulite, hair loss, and localized fat.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp

PRP is an autologous biological treatment used for joint disease, sports injuries, hair loss and wound healing.

Neural Therapy

Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp

Neural therapy aims to restore autonomic nervous system balance through procaine injections at nerve ganglia and scar tissue.

Balneotherapy (Spa Therapy)

Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp

Balneotherapy uses thermal water, mud, and steam therapeutically to relieve musculoskeletal complaints.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.