Hypericum perforatum (HP), commonly known as St. John’s wort, is a plant belonging to the Hypericaceae family with yellow, star-shaped flowers, native to Europe. St. John's wort typically blooms and is harvested towards the end of June, when St. John's feast day is celebrated. Traditionally, the plant was hung from doors on St. John’s feast day to protect against malevolent spirits and to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals.
Hypericin and hyperforin are the two main active metabolites of HP. Additionally, HP contains various other active compounds like flavonoids, as well as several inactive substances.[1]
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) the extract of HP has been used as a herbal remedy to treat depression. It is also recommended for the same purpose in many European countries.