Nutrient Database

St. John's Wort

herbal

Approved

General information about nutrients. No diagnosis, no medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor before taking supplements.

Fasting safe

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Overview

Extract from the flowering plant Hypericum perforatum. Interacts with many medications.

Interactions

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St. John's Wort + 5-HTP: serotonin risk

St. John's wort inhibits serotonin reuptake, while 5-HTP increases serotonin synthesis. Combined, they risk serotonin syndrome, a potentially dangerous excess of serotonergic activity.

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Both affect serotonin - do not combine

St. John's wort and SAMe both act on the serotonin system. Combining them risks serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Expert consensus: Strong

Causes many drug interactions (CYP enzyme induction). Avoid with SSRIs, birth control, and many medications. Discuss with a doctor before use.

St. John's Wort — Stackwell