St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum extract) is a weak inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO), which destroys monoamine neurotransmitters including dopamine in the brain and leads to low spirits. St. John’s Wort has also been shown to inhibit reuptake of several neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline, and GABA in the brain, and to reduce expression of interleukin-6.1 Each of these actions can contribute to alleviating low mood status by slowing the recycling of neurotransmitters needed for maintaining emotional balance. Flavonoids, hypericin and pseudo-hypericin, are the constituents thought to be associated with the benefits of St John’s Wort. In particular, hypericin appears to be the main active ingredient.2-7

Because St. John’s Wort may have numerous drug interactions (most commonly, MAOIs and SSRIs) consult your healthcare provider before taking this product if you are taking prescription medications. Avoid prolonged exposure to UV radiation (e.g. sunlight, tanning) when using this product.