St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a European herb containing hypericin (0.0095-0.466%) and hyperforin (2-4.5%) as primary bioactive compounds. These compounds interact with CYP enzymes including CYP3A4 and CYP1A2, though clinical evidence remains limited.

Origin & History

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, Asia, and North America, traditionally harvested from its aerial parts, particularly flowers and leaves. The herb is extracted using hydroalcoholic methods or solvents like methanol and acetone to yield standardized extracts containing bioactive compounds including naphthodianthrones, phloroglucinols, and flavonoids.

Historical & Cultural Context

The research dossier provides no information on historical context, traditional medicine systems, or traditional indications for Hypericum perforatum. Duration of traditional use is not specified in the available sources.

Health Benefits

• Limited clinical evidence available - research dossier contains no specific human trials or outcomes data
• Contains hypericin (0.0095-0.466%) and hyperforin (2-4.5%) as primary bioactive compounds
• Phloroglucinols interact with CYP enzymes including CYP3A4 and CYP1A2
• Rich in flavonoids (2-12% total) including hyperoside, quercitrin, and rutin
• Contains phenolic acids, tannins (3-16%), and amino acids including GABA

How It Works

St. John's Wort's primary bioactive compounds hypericin and hyperforin interact with cytochrome P450 enzymes, specifically CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. The phloroglucinol derivatives, particularly hyperforin, modulate hepatic enzyme activity and may affect neurotransmitter pathways. Flavonoids comprising 2-12% of the extract provide additional bioactive properties through antioxidant mechanisms.

Scientific Research

The research dossier provides no specific details on human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses for Hypericum perforatum. No PMIDs, study designs, sample sizes, or clinical outcomes are available in the provided sources.

Clinical Summary

Current research dossier contains no specific human clinical trials or quantified outcomes data for St. John's Wort. Available evidence is limited and lacks standardized study protocols with measurable endpoints. The absence of controlled human trials makes it difficult to establish definitive therapeutic efficacy. Most available data focuses on phytochemical composition rather than clinical outcomes.

Nutritional Profile

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is primarily valued as a medicinal herb rather than a nutritional food source. Its key bioactive compounds dominate its profile: Hypericin and pseudohypericin (naphthodianthrone derivatives) at 0.0095–0.466% dry weight, serving as marker compounds for standardization; Hyperforin and adhyperforin (phloroglucinol derivatives) at 2–4.5% dry weight, considered primary active constituents for neuromodulatory effects. Flavonoids constitute 2–12% total dry weight, including hyperoside (quercetin-3-galactoside, ~0.5–2%), quercitrin (~0.3–1%), rutin (~0.3–0.8%), isoquercitrin, kaempferol, and luteolin glycosides; these exhibit moderate oral bioavailability (20–50%) influenced by gut microbiota metabolism and efflux transporters. Phenolic acids include chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and protocatechuic acid at trace to minor levels (~0.1–0.5%). Tannins (condensed and hydrolysable) range from 3–16% dry weight, contributing astringent properties but potentially reducing absorption of co-administered compounds. Essential oils comprise approximately 0.05–0.9%, containing caryophyllene, humulene, and pinene. Macro/micronutrient content is nutritionally insignificant; the herb provides negligible protein (<5% DW), minimal lipids (<3% DW), and modest carbohydrates. Bioavailability notes: Hyperforin is highly lipophilic (LogP ~7), requiring micellar solubilization for absorption; peak plasma concentrations observed 3–4 hours post-ingestion. Hypericin bioavailability is low (~14%) due to poor aqueous solubility. Flavonoid glycosides require intestinal hydrolysis to aglycone forms prior to absorption. CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 induction by hyperforin significantly alters co-administered drug pharmacokinetics, reducing systemic exposure of numerous medications.

Preparation & Dosage

No clinically studied dosage ranges are specified in the research dossier for extracts, powder, or standardized forms. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Synergy & Pairings

Insufficient research data to determine synergistic ingredients

Safety & Interactions

St. John's Wort significantly interacts with medications metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 enzymes, potentially altering drug effectiveness. Common interactions include reduced efficacy of birth control pills, blood thinners, and certain antidepressants. Side effects may include photosensitivity, gastrointestinal upset, and dizziness. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data.