Hypericum extract preparations are used extensively in many countries to
treat mildly to moderately depressed patients. While this was based
previously on traditional experience, extensive research over the last
10 years has given a broad preclinical and clinical basis to justify the
use of Hypericum as an antidepressant. This book reviews the available
data related to the biochemical, functional, and behavioural
pharmacology of Hypericum and its active constituents. The clinical
chapters overview the evidenced basis for its use as an antidepressant,
initial data in anxiety and somatoform disorders, and the site effect
profile of Hypericum and its possible relevant drug interactions. The
known pharmacokinetics of the relevant constituents and the
biopharmaceutical quality of commercially available Hypericum
preparations are also discussed.