- Hypericaceae
- Flowering top
- Europe · naturalised worldwide
- Dried herb
St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum
Select sizeThe plant
St. John’s wort produces bright yellow flowers and leaves with tiny translucent dots. The flowering tops are used in herbal preparations.
What's in it
Hypericin and hyperforin are characteristic plant compounds. Their amounts vary between preparations.
Hypericin
The red naphthodianthrone in the black dots. Photosensitising.
Hyperforin
A phloroglucinol. The compound behind the drug interactions.
Flavonoids
Including rutin, hyperoside and quercitrin.
Tannins
Contributing astringency.
How it works
Traditional mood support: The flowering herb is associated with emotional wellbeing and a more settled outlook. Body context: Mood involves chemical signalling in the brain. Specially prepared extracts have effects on these systems, making the exact preparation and medicine interactions important to its use.
In the tradition
A longstanding European herbal ingredient.
The leaf’s tiny dots can be seen when held up to the light.
- 1Steep 1–2 tsp dried St John’s wort in 250ml hot water for 5–10 mins.
- 2Drink 2–3 cups daily.
- 3Mild, slightly bitter, lightly floral flavour.
- 4Must be used consistently for 4–6 weeks for antidepressant effects — not a fast-acting herb.
- 5Pairs well with lemon balm or oat straw for anxiety blends.
Storage: Store in an airtight, opaque container away from light to preserve hypericin. Best used within 12–18 months.
- Major medicine interactions, including antidepressants, contraceptives, blood thinners and transplant medicines.
- Check before use; can increase sun sensitivity.
- Avoid pregnancy/breastfeeding without advice.
- On oral contraceptives: reduces effectiveness; use additional contraception.
- On anticoagulants, HIV medication, cyclosporine, digoxin: significant CYP3A4 interactions.
- Photosensitive skin: hypericin increases UV sensitivity.
- Bipolar disorder: may trigger manic episodes.
A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Common questions
How do I prepare st. john's wort?
St. John's Wort is steeped as an infusion. Steep 1–2 tsp dried St John’s wort in 250ml hot water for 5–10 mins. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.
What is st. john's wort?
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) belongs to the Hypericaceae family; the flowering top is used. Origin: Europe, naturalised worldwide. A yellow-flowered herb with a longstanding tradition in emotional wellbeing.
How should I store dried st. john's wort?
Store in an airtight, opaque container away from light to preserve hypericin. Best used within 12–18 months.
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