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Saint John's Wort

Hypericum perforatum, Klamath weed

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Meta Information

ID:saint-johns-wort
Name:Saint John's Wort
Schema Version:1.5

Title

Saint John's Wort

Alternate Names

  • Hypericum perforatum
  • Klamath weed

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
10
High Cost:
25
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Widely available over-the-counter herbal supplement with variable pricing and quality.

Summary

Saint John's Wort is an herbal supplement primarily used to manage symptoms of mild to moderate depression. Its active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, are thought to modulate neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. From a healthspan perspective, its value lies in supporting mental well-being, which is a critical component of overall health, though direct evidence for extending lifespan is lacking.

Purpose

Herbal supplement for mood support and potential neuroprotection.

Card Summary

An herbal supplement primarily used for mild depression, with potential secondary anti-inflammatory benefits.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
3.5
Justification:
Indirect healthspan benefit via mood support; no direct longevity evidence.

Evidence

Grade:
D
Score:
2.5
Justification:
Robust evidence for mood, but speculative for direct healthspan or longevity outcomes.

Safety

Score:
5.5
Justification:
Numerous significant drug interactions, including with SSRIs and oral contraceptives.

Flags

  • Induces CYP3A4 enzyme, reducing efficacy of many drugs (e.g., oral contraceptives, warfarin, immunosuppressants).
  • High risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with SSRIs or other serotonergic drugs.
  • Can cause photosensitivity, increasing the risk of sunburn, especially at higher doses.
  • Product quality and standardization of active compounds can vary significantly between brands.

Verdict

Consider for mood support, but beware of major drug interactions.

Created

2026-04-24T00:09:08.966650Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:
oral
Scope:
  • systemic

Indication

Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Saint John's Wort is an herbal supplement primarily used to manage symptoms of mild to moderate depression. Its active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, are thought to modulate neurotransmi...

Typical Protocol

  • Standard protocols target 300mg three times daily, standardized to 0.3% hypericin or 2-5% hyperforin.