St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) works well for many people with symptoms of depression because it acts as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (the physiological mechanism used by the tricyclic class of antidepressant drugs). Consult a herbalist to find which form might suit you best and take for at least two months. Consult your doctor if taking prescription drugs, including oral contraceptives, and avoid excessive exposure to sunlight.