St. John's Wort Powder (Hypericum perforatum)

Ground aerial parts of Hypericum perforatum, St. John's Wort, in convenient powder form. Same source as our cut-and-sifted St. John's Wort - the powder is ready for capsules, smoothies, and quick tea preparation. St. John's Wort is one of the most-studied herbs in modern Western herbalism for mood support, with substantial clinical research support for mild-to-moderate mood applications.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Hypericum perforatum

Family

Hypericaceae

Format

Ground powder (ready for direct use)

Studied compounds

Hypericin, hyperforin, flavonoids

Modern use

Approved prescription antidepressant in Germany and several European countries

Major safety concern

Significant drug interactions with many prescription medications

Important Drug Interaction Information

St. John's Wort has the most extensive list of significant drug interactions of any commonly used herb. The compound hyperforin induces cytochrome P450 liver enzymes, which significantly reduces the effectiveness of: birth control pills, blood thinners (warfarin), HIV medications, transplant rejection medications, chemotherapy drugs, certain heart medications, certain antidepressants, and many others. Do not combine St. John's Wort with prescription medications without consulting a healthcare provider and pharmacist first. Also, do not combine with SSRIs or other antidepressants (risk of serotonin syndrome).

How to Use St. John's Wort Powder

Capsules: fill size 00 capsules; typical use is 2-3 capsules daily. Standardized extracts (with specific hypericin and hyperforin content) are the form used in clinical research. Tea: stir 1 teaspoon into 8 oz hot water; steep 10 minutes; strain through fine cloth. Effects build over 4-6 weeks of consistent use rather than from single doses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is St. John's Wort used for?
Most commonly for mood support, particularly mild-to-moderate mood applications.

Does St. John's Wort interact with medications?
Yes; the most extensive drug interaction list of any commonly used herb. Consult a healthcare provider before combining with prescription medications.

Why is it called "St. John's Wort"?
The plant typically peaks in flowering around June 24, the feast day of Saint John the Baptist.

How long until effects build?
Mood support effects typically build over 4-6 weeks of consistent use rather than from single doses.

Can it cause photosensitivity?
Yes; at high doses, the hypericin content can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.

Why is St. John's Wort an approved drug in Germany?
Standardized extracts have been approved as prescription antidepressants in Germany and several other European countries based on substantial clinical research.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.