St. John's Wort (also known as St. John’s Wart) has been used for centuries to treat mental disorders as well as nerve pain. In ancient times, doctors and herbalists (specialists in herbs) wrote about its use as a sedative and treatment for malaria as well as a balm for wounds, burns, and insect bites. Today, St. John's Wort is used by some people to treat mild to moderate depression and anxiety.

People who suffer from anxiety disorders and/or depression who use anti-depressant drugs believe they don’t experience relief from their mental disorders. They tend to suffer from unpleasant side effects from their prescription medication such as dry mouth, nausea, headache or sexual dysfunction. As a result, many individuals who don’t experience relief from their mental symptoms turn to herbal preparations like St. John's Wort due to their ability to manage a person’s stress levels and mood.

Another reason why people are starting to prefer St. John’s Wort over Rx anti-depressants since is the cost of prescription medications. There are many people without health insurance and need to treat their anxiety and depression without spending a fortune. St. John's Wort costs less than many antidepressant medications and can be sold without a prescription.