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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
St. John's Wort wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Mostly mechanism / observational
1 of 1 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Mixed evidence
4 of 9 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Shared outcomes (1)
Outcomes where both Bacopa Monnieri and St. John's Wort have evidence — compare verdict strength side-by-side.
300-450mg daily (standardized to 50% bacosides)
With fatty meal for absorption
Bacognize® or Synapsa® standardized extract
300mg 3x daily (900mg total)
With meals, Divided into 2-3 doses
Standardized extract (0.3% hypericin)
8-12 weeks
8-12 weeks
First 2 weeks
First week
4-6 weeks
4-8 weeks
During use
First 1-2 weeks
Efficiency of Different Supplements in Alleviating Symptoms of ADHD with or Without the Use of Stimulants: A Systematic Review
Nutrients (2025) · Systematic review
The evidence revealed the potential use of supplements as complementary ADHD treatments under clinical guidance.
Effectiveness of Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi) in the management of schizophrenia: a systematic review
Nutritional neuroscience (2025) · Systematic review · n=103
Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder affecting approximately 0.32% of the global population.
Bacopa monnieri: Preclinical and Clinical Evidence of Neuroactive Effects, Safety of Use and the Search for Improved Bioavailability
Nutrients (2025) · Systematic review
Animal studies have shown promising results in reducing symptoms and protecting against neurodegeneration.
St John's wort for major depression
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2008) · Meta analysis · n=5489
As effective as standard antidepressants for mild-moderate depression
Efficacy of Pharmacological Interventions in Milder Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Neuropsychopharmacology reports (2025) · Meta analysis · n=1049
A meta-analysis found no significant difference in response rates between the two treatments (risk ratio [RR] = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.78-1.18) or dropout rates (RR = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.62-1.88).
Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Plant Extracts on Cognitive Function and Quality of Life in Stroke Patients
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2025) · Meta analysis
John's Wort extract (SUCRA 71.2%) was the most effective in reducing NIHSS scores, Berberine (SUCRA 84.1%) was most effective in reducing mRS scores, and St.
Based on meta-analysis of 437 participants showing improvements in attention, processing speed, and working memory. However, one large RCT (n=101) found no significant between-group differences. Effects may take 8-12 weeks to manifest. Standardized extracts (Bacognize, Synapsa) may have better bioavailability than generic forms.
Based on multiple meta-analyses (n>5000) showing efficacy comparable to SSRIs for mild-moderate depression. Effect plateau around 900-1200mg. Not effective for severe depression. Requires standardized extract (0.3% hypericin).
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
St. John's Wort has a higher evidence score (9/10 vs 8.5/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For support mood, St. John's Wort has a higher relevance score (92 vs 55).
No known interactions between Bacopa Monnieri and St. John's Wort have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.