Posted on by Bessheen Baker

St. John’s Wort: The Mood-Bosting Sunshine Herb

January can be rough. The holidays are over, the days are short, and it’s easy to feel a little gray. This month, we’re highlighting an herb that has helped people through the dark months for centuries: St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum).

Photo by Ronin on Unsplash

The Sunshine Herb

Traditionally, St. John’s Wort corresponds with the Sun, and it’s easy to see why. This cheerful yellow-flowered herb has long been valued for its ability to boost your mood. It is often used to help treat the symptoms of depression, especially seasonal depression, for this very reason.

 

 

 

 

Key Benefits of St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort has been used for centuries to support overall wellness, particularly during challenging times. Here’s what this remarkable herb offers:

Dietary Supplements:

  • Supports emotional balance and positive mood
  • Traditional use for mild to moderate depression
  • “Many studies have found St. John’s wort to be helpful in treating mild to moderate depression. In fact, some research has shown the supplement to work as well as many prescription antidepressants,” Mayo Clinic states.
  • Can help relieve menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes

Homeopathic Form:

  • Nerve pain relief
  • Support for nerve injuries and trauma
  • Recovery from injuries to nerve-rich areas like fingers, toes, and the spine
  • Post-surgical nerve pain

Topical Use:

  • Soothes minor skin irritations
  • Supports healing of minor wounds and bruises
  • May help with muscle aches when used in salve form

The Different Forms of St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort comes in various forms, and each supports the body in a slightly different way. Whether you’re looking for mood support, nerve relief, or something to ease sore muscles, there’s a version that may work best for you.

Form Best For How to Use It What to Know
Capsules or Tablets Daily mood support and long-term use Take with meals, usually twice a day This is the most researched form. It’s easy to take and consistent in dosage.
Tincture (Liquid Extract) Quick support for emotional balance Add to water or take under the tongue Absorbs faster than capsules. Taste can be strong. Dosing is flexible.
Salve or Infused Oil Sore muscles, minor injuries, or nerve pain Rub into the skin as needed Only for external use. Great for areas like the back, shoulders, or hands.
Flower Essence Gentle emotional or energetic support A few drops under the tongue or in water Works on a subtle level. No active herbal compounds, but used in emotional healing.
Homeopathic Prep Nerve pain, trauma, or shock Take as small pellets or drops Extremely diluted. Often used for specific nerve-related injuries.

 

Not sure which form is right for you? Talk to someone at Herbs Etc. We’re happy to help you choose what best fits your needs.

What to Look for in a Quality St. John’s Wort Supplement

  • Standardized extract: Look for 0.3% hypericin, which is the active ingredient in St. John’s Wort.
  • Third-party testing: Choose brands that test for purity and potency.
  • Reputable sourcing: Herbs grown without pesticides or contaminants are always a better option.
  • Clear labeling: Avoid products with hidden proprietary blends or unclear dosages.

Nature’s Sunshine meets these standards, which is why we carry and recommend it.

How to Take Nature’s Sunshine St. John’s Wort Supplement

Nature’s Sunshine offers high-quality, extended-release St. John’s Wort in convenient capsule form.

Dosage:

  • 2 capsules a day. Take 1 capsule with a meal, twice daily (1 in the morning and 1 in the evening or at night)
  • Each capsule contains 460mg of St. John’s Wort extract (standardized to 0.3% hypericin)

We’ve found Nature’s Sunshine capsules to be well-tolerated even among clients sensitive to other supplement brands.

 

 

 

Important Safety Information

While St. John’s Wort is generally safe and well-tolerated, it’s not for everyone. Many medications have interactions with St. John’s Wort.

Do not use St. John’s Wort if you’re taking:

  • SSRI antidepressants
  • Xanax
  • Omeprozol
  • Barbiturates
  • Birth control pills
  • Blood thinners
  • Certain other medications, like certain chemotherapy medicines, statins, and medicines that suppress the immune system

St. John’s Wort can interact with many medications by affecting how your body processes them. (Drug interactions with St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum): a review of the clinical evidence, 2004) Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding it to your routine, especially if you take prescription medications.

Additional precautions:

  • May increase sun sensitivity; Use sunscreen and limit sun exposure.
  • Do not take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless advised by a healthcare provider.
  • Not recommended for children without professional guidance

Possible Side Effects of St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort can cause the following side effects:

  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Tiredness and restless sleep
  • Increased sun sensitivity
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea and constipation
  • Insomnia
  • Allergic reactions
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Other adverse effects caused by drug interactions

Available Forms at Herbs Etc

We carry St. John’s Wort in multiple forms to suit your needs:

  • Nature’s Sunshine Capsules – for convenient, standardized daily supplementation
  • Tinctures – for traditional herbal use
  • Flower essences – for gentle energetic support
  • Homeopathic preparations – for nerve pain and injury
  • Salves – for topical application
  • Essential oil – for aromatherapy and external use

Bringing Light Into Your Days

Whether you’re dealing with seasonal depression, seeking support for nervous system health, or looking for natural options for nerve discomfort, St. John’s Wort offers time-tested support.

Stop by Herbs Etc this January to explore which form might be right for you, and let our knowledgeable staff help you find relief during these darker months.

Note: The information in this article is for educational purposes only. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a healthcare practitioner before using St. John’s Wort, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.