Which supplement is commonly used for anxiety and depression?

• A. St. John's Wort
• B. Garlic
• C. Melatonin
• D. Black cohosh

Answer: (A)

St John’s Wort is widely used for mood disorders because clinical data support its benefit in mild to moderate depression, and some people notice anxiety relief as mood improves. The active components, hyperforin and hypericin, are thought to modulate monoaminergic neurotransmission (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine), which can help lift mood. It’s important to recognize that it isn’t a cure-all: evidence for severe depression is weaker, and it can interact with many medicines by inducing liver enzymes, reducing the effectiveness of birth control, anticoagulants, HIV therapies, and other antidepressants. It can also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome if taken with other serotonergic drugs and can cause photosensitivity, with limited safety in pregnancy. In contrast, garlic is mainly used for cardiovascular effects, melatonin for sleep regulation, and black cohosh for menopausal symptoms, and they aren’t as commonly used for anxiety or depression.