đ Common Names (6 Languages)
â Evidence-Based Benefits
Antidepressant for mild to moderate depression. Cochrane review of 35 RCTs shows efficacy comparable to standard antidepressants with fewer side effects (PMID: 18843608). NOT effective for major/severe depression.
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đŹ Clinical Trials
âď¸ Evidence-Based Research: Clinical trials provide the highest level of evidence for herbal efficacy and safety. The trials listed below represent peer-reviewed research registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. Each trial includes detailed protocols, patient populations, interventions tested, and measurable outcomes. Click links to access full trial details and published results.
Cochrane review: 35 RCTs with 6,993 patients
Meta-analysis: Efficacy vs placebo and standard antidepressants
đ Drug Interactions
Important: Always inform your healthcare provider about all herbs and supplements.
â ď¸ CRITICAL - Oral Contraceptives
Risk: CONTRACEPTIVE FAILURE - unwanted pregnancy
Mechanism: Induces CYP3A4, increasing estrogen metabolism
Action: Use additional contraception. Consider alternative depression treatment
Evidence: Multiple case reports (PMID: 15254332)
â ď¸ CRITICAL - Immunosuppressants (Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus)
Risk: ORGAN REJECTION in transplant patients
Mechanism: Reduces drug levels via CYP3A4 induction
Action: ABSOLUTELY AVOID in transplant patients
â ď¸ Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs)
Risk: Serotonin syndrome - potentially fatal
Action: DO NOT COMBINE with other antidepressants
â ď¸ Warfarin
Risk: Reduced anticoagulant effect - clotting
Action: Avoid combination. Monitor INR closely if must use
â ď¸ HIV Medications (Protease Inhibitors, NNRTIs)
Risk: Treatment failure, viral resistance
Action: AVOID - may reduce HIV drug levels
â ď¸ Cancer Chemotherapy (Irinotecan, Imatinib, others)
Risk: Reduced efficacy of cancer treatment
Action: AVOID during chemotherapy
Statins (Simvastatin, Atorvastatin)
Effect: Reduced statin levels
Action: May require statin dose adjustment
Benzodiazepines (Alprazolam, Midazolam)
Effect: Reduced benzodiazepine effectiveness
Action: Avoid combination
â ď¸ CRITICAL WARNING: St. John's Wort has MORE drug interactions than almost any other herb. Always consult a healthcare provider before use. This list is not exhaustive.
â ď¸ Safety Information
Adverse Events
Drug interactions are the MAJOR concern (see below). Photosensitivity in fair-skinned individuals (5-10%). Mild GI upset (~5%). Serotonin syndrome risk with SSRIs.
â Contraindications
CRITICAL: Numerous drug interactions. Avoid with SSRIs/antidepressants. Not for major depression or children. Caution with photosensitivity. Not with oral contraceptives.
𧏠Mechanism of Action
Hyperforin and hypericin modulate serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine reuptake. MAO inhibition (weak). CYP3A4 enzyme inducer (causes most drug interactions).
đ Dosage & Administration
300mg three times daily (standardized to 0.3% hypericin or 3-5% hyperforin). Takes 4-6 weeks for full effect.
âď¸ Note: Consult healthcare provider, especially if taking medications.
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Data Retrieval: November 29, 2025 | Compiled by: Sheraz Ahmed
License: CC BY-SA 4.0
Citation: Ahmed, S. (2025). Medicinal Herbs Database. Clinical Corner. https://welovelmc.com/medical-tools.htm