St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a flowering plant whose aerial parts contain hypericin, hyperforin and flavonoids. It is mostly studied for low mood.
Also listed as St. John's Wort Extract, St. John's Wort Aerial Parts, St. John's Wort Aerial Parts Extract, St. John's Wort Glycerite Liquid Extract
How well does it work for depression?
A review of 35 studies involving 6,993 adults found that St. John’s wort alone improved mild to moderate depression more than placebo. Results were not significantly different from antidepressants, but varied substantially between studies. The trials do not establish effectiveness for severe depression. 1
Benefit applies to studied extracts in mild to moderate depression, not every mood complaint. 1
What about staying well long term?
Few studies reviewed by IQWiG lasted longer than eight weeks. Whether benefit persists or further episodes can be prevented remains insufficiently studied. 2
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Stress & Mood3 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
Sleep1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Cognition2 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
Essential Health1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
All studies
3 publications are linked to St. John's Wort, newest first.
Sources
- A systematic review of St. John’s wort for major depressive disorder Systematic Reviews, 2016 · Study record
- Kann Johanniskraut bei Depressionen helfen? IQWiG, 2023