SJW is indicated for mild to moderate depression. However, I started taking it after hitting rock bottom and being severely depressed for at least 2 months (was already on the upswing of it though). It worked. I didn't remember ever not being depressed, and I actually felt decent for a change. Then I tripled or quadrupled the recommended dosage, and got manic. Keep it around 900 mg per day if you try it.

SJW works the same way that prescription meds do, but it's less concentrated. It is documented that it is effective, and in Europe they prescribe SJW for depression.

It didn't have any side-effects that bothered me. I was having a problem with insomnia too, and it fixed that. If combined with other herbs that have sedative properties, it will knock you out (well, it did me). It can also interfere with birth control and increase light sensitivity.

After 2 years I tried going off of it. Starting back up again now. I obviously still need it.

Good luck,
Rap