Other names for Hypericin

{hypercins}
hypercins
hypericin
hypericine
hypericin extract
hypericins
standardized extract 0.3% yielding hypericins
total hypericin
total hypericins

Synopsis of Hypericin

History

Hypericin is a naturally occurring compound primarily found in the flowers and leaves of Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort. This vibrant yellow-flowering plant has a rich history of medicinal use dating back over two millennia. Ancient Greek and Roman physicians, such as Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder, valued St. John's Wort for its remarkable healing properties, using it to treat wounds, burns, and a variety of inflammatory conditions. In the Middle Ages, hypericin-rich preparations were administered as a remedy for nerve pain, melancholia, and even as a ward against evil spirits, reflecting its revered status in folk medicine.

In traditional European herbalism, St. John's Wort, and by extension its active component hypericin, was often combined with other botanicals to enhance its restorative effects. For example, it was commonly used alongside valerian and passionflower to support mood and relaxation, or with calendula to promote skin healing. Modern herbalists continue to utilize these synergies, leveraging the broad spectrum of benefits attributed to hypericin, including its support for emotional well-being and its gentle, natural approach to promoting a positive mood.

With its well-documented history and continued relevance in contemporary natural health practices, hypericin stands out as a valuable ingredient in herbal medicine. Its traditional use in remedies for mood balance and skin health, both alone and in combination with other herbs, underscores its enduring contribution to holistic wellness. Today, it remains a cornerstone in the formulation of nutritional products and herbal blends, appreciated for its efficacy and natural origin.

Traditional and scientific validation

Hypericin is a naturally occurring compound found primarily in the plant Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John’s wort. Historically, extracts from St. John’s wort have been used for centuries in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Europe, to address mood-related disorders and support overall mental well-being. The identification of hypericin as one of the key active ingredients has spurred scientific interest in its potential health benefits.

Clinical studies have investigated the efficacy of hypericin-containing extracts, particularly for mild to moderate depression. Some randomized controlled trials suggest that St. John’s wort extracts, standardized for hypericin content, may provide comparable benefits to conventional antidepressants, while often producing fewer side effects. The proposed mechanisms of action include inhibition of the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, although the exact role of hypericin itself, as distinct from other constituents, remains under exploration.

Beyond its mood-supporting properties, laboratory research has examined hypericin’s antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as its potential use in photodynamic therapy for certain cancers. However, while these findings are promising, further rigorous clinical research is necessary to confirm its efficacy and safety in these areas.

Overall, hypericin continues to be a subject of active research, and its historical use is increasingly supported by emerging scientific studies. Although more evidence is needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential and optimal applications, hypericin remains a valuable and promising ingredient in nutritional products, particularly those aimed at supporting emotional and mental health.

Hypericin is used for these health conditions

Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Herpes (Traditional)
Infection (viral) (Scientific)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)

Hypericin is used to support these body systems

Brain (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Serotonin (Scientific)

Products containing Hypericin

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.