St. John's Wort vs Lemon Balm

St. John's Wort is a flowering plant that has been used medicinally since ancient Greece. It is best known for its use in treating mild to moderate depression, where clinical evidence supports its efficacy comparable to some conventional antidepressants. It is named for its traditional harvest on St. John's Day.

Lemon balm is a lemon-scented herb from the mint family that has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years. It was a favorite of the ancient Greeks and was cultivated in monastery gardens throughout medieval Europe. It is particularly valued for its gentle calming effects and cognitive-enhancing properties.

Hypericin, Hyperforin, Adhyperforin, Flavonoids, Xanthones

Rosmarinic acid, Citral, Citronellal, Eugenol, Flavonoids

Depression treatment, Wound healing, Nerve pain relief, Anti-inflammatory, Sedative

Anxiety relief, Sleep aid, Digestive soother, Cold sore treatment, Mood enhancer

Mild to moderate depression, Seasonal affective disorder, Anxiety, Nerve pain, Menopausal symptoms

Anxiety and stress, Insomnia, Cold sores (topical), Cognitive performance, ADHD support

300mg extract (0.3% hypericin) 3 times daily

300-600mg extract daily, or 2-4 cups tea daily

Concurrent use with SSRIs or MAOIs, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Organ transplant recipients, HIV patients on antiretrovirals

Thyroid conditions (may interfere with thyroid hormones), Scheduled surgery (sedative effects)