Evidence supporting the use of: Hypericin
For the body system: Serotonin

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Hypericin is a key active compound found in Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort), a botanical traditionally used for mood support. The use of St. John’s Wort, and by extension hypericin, for supporting the serotonin system and alleviating depressive symptoms is supported by numerous clinical trials and meta-analyses. While the exact mechanism is not fully elucidated, hypericin—along with other constituents like hyperforin—appears to inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, leading to increased concentrations of these mood-regulating chemicals in the synaptic cleft. This is somewhat analogous to the action of conventional selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Meta-analyses (e.g., Linde et al., Cochrane, 2008) have shown that St. John’s Wort extracts are more effective than placebo and similarly effective as standard antidepressants for mild to moderate depression, with fewer side effects. However, it is important to note that most studies focus on whole plant extracts, not isolated hypericin. Some evidence suggests that hyperforin may be more significant for serotonin reuptake inhibition, but hypericin is still widely cited and studied as a bioactive marker. Thus, the scientific evidence for the use of hypericin-containing extracts to support the serotonin system is moderate, though the effect is likely due to a combination of compounds in the plant rather than hypericin alone.

References:
- Linde, K., et al. "St John's wort for depression." Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008.
- Butterweck, V. "Mechanism of action of St John’s wort in depression: what is known?" CNS Drugs. 2003.

More about Hypericin
More about Serotonin

Other body systems supported by Hypericin

Brain
Nerves
Serotonin

Products containing Hypericin

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