Can Be Used for Indications Supported by Clinical Trials

The dried aerial parts of Hypericum perforatum, gathered during the flowering period or shortly before, are used medicinally. The generic name of the herb derives from the Greek meaning to ‘overcome an apparition’ and in earlier times homes would have a plant hanging over the door to ward off evil spirits. This species of hypericum (H. perforatum) is referred to as perforate St John’s wort due to the perforated appearance of the leaves when they are held up to the light. H. perforatum is not a weed in its native Europe, Asia and North Africa but has become a weed in most temperate regions of the world. Hypericum and other species of the genus have been used as a remedy since ancient times particularly to treat ulcers, burns, wounds, abdominal pains and bacterial diseases. Recently it has received attention in clinical trials for the treatment of depression and viral diseases.