Is St. John's Wort For Anxiety And Moderate Depression Helpful?

Although the pharmaceutical industry can provide many options that may support the treatment experience of those who live with anxiety disorders, many of these anxiety medicines can cause side effects or have a prolonged period of adjustment. In either case, patients may opt for natural anxiety treatment alternatives — which has prompted the medical community to explore the efficacy of supplements like St. John's wort for anxiety.

Below, we’re exploring what St. John’s wort is, possible efficacy it may have for anxiety, and scientific support that is currently available for this form of anxiety treatment and support. 

What is St. John’s wort or hypericum perforatum? 

St. John's wort, otherwise known as hypericum perforatum, is classified as an herbaceous plant that is generally identified by many via its bright yellow flowers and shrublike appearance. St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) is technically a flowering plant in the Hypericaceae family. St. John’s wort has been used in a medicinal capacity for centuries — offering a historical use for many as a tool to support conditions such as depression and insomnia, and externally as an aid in healing wounds.

St. John’s wort may be used to treat various ailments as a capsule, tincture, or paste.

St. John's wort is not generally classified as a pharmaceutical drug, as St. John’s wort does not require a prescription or evaluation from a healthcare professional. We do want to note, however, that you may find more safety and benefit from seeking a professional medical opinion before beginning any course of treatment or supplementation, including St. John's wort for anxiety. 

St. John’s wort for anxiety and moderate depression

• Somatic symptom disorder 
• Social anxiety disorder 
• Generalized anxiety disorder 

Systematic reviews have demonstrated the efficacy of St. John’s wort (versus placebo) for treating mild to moderate depression. However, studies are still proving St. John’s wort's effectiveness for severe depression. A systematic review shows that there is currently a lack of research and evidence to support the use of St. John’s wort for severe depression. Researchers in one review found that St. John’s wort produces similar effects to antidepressant medications, concluding that St. John’s wort is not only as effective as but also safer than prescription medications used for depression. However, according to practice guidelines developed by the American College of Physicians—and published in the Annals of Internal Medicine—cognitive behavioral therapy and second-generation antidepressants are still considered primary treatment modalities for anxiety, over complementary and alternative medicine options like St. John’s wort for anxiety. 

In addition to being used for mild to moderate depression, St. John's wort may help those living with insomnia, seasonal affective disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder better manage their mental and physical symptoms. St. John's wort has also historically been used for supportive therapeutic supplement for some experiencing menopause. Typically, St. John’s wort for menopause is used to alleviate hot flashes and mood swings. St. John's Wort has been clinically suggested as an effective supportive therapy to address menopausal symptoms. St. John’s wort can also be of use for some individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety disorder as a result of menopause by treating the bodily changes brought on by menopause. 

Overall, though, research into the efficacy of St. John’s wort when treating anxiety has produced mixed results. There is evidence that St. John’s wort can relieve symptoms of anxiety that arise out of a depressive disorder. However, there is limited proof of its effectiveness for individuals living with anxiety disorders alone. For example, in a placebo-controlled pilot study, researchers found that St. John’s wort failed to improve symptoms of social phobia. Additional research continues to be done on St. John’s wort for anxiety, though. 

There is also evidence that St. John’s wort can improve mood for people who aren’t living with a mental health challenge. In one study, researchers found that healthy volunteers experienced a positive shift in emotional processing when taking St. John’s wort.

Can you use St. John’s wort as an anxiety treatment method?

While a successful and helpful treatment protocol looks different for each patient based on their own unique experience, St. John's wort (hypericum perforatum) can be used by many for a helpful addition to other types of treatment methods, such as talk therapy or pharmaceutical intervention. Speaking with a clinician may help you to determine if St. John’s wort is an appropriate form of intervention to be used exclusively for anxiety or if you may benefit from pairing it with other supportive therapy types. 

How does St. John’s wort help improve mood and anxiety?

St. John's Wort's (hypericum perforatum) active components can increase your brain's ability to send and receive messages, which can elevate the presence of serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline. 

How much St. Johns wort should I take for anxiety to prevent side effects?

Hypericum perforatum might not be right for everyone 

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