Medicinal uses
Uses supported by clinical data
Symptomatic treatment of mild and moderate depressive episodes (classified as F32.0 and F32.1, respectively, in the International statistical classification of diseases and related health problems, Tenth revision (ICD-10).
Uses reported in pharmacopoeias and in traditional systems of medicine
Externally for the treatment of minor cuts, burns and skin ulcers. Topically for viral infections.
Uses described in folk medicine, not supported by experimental or clinical data
As an antiphlogistic agent in the treatment of inflammation of the bronchi and urogenital tract; treatment of biliary disorders, bladder irritation, the common cold, diabetes mellitus, dyspepsia, haemorrhoids, neuralgia, migraine headaches, sciatica and ulcers. Also used as a diuretic, an emmenagogue and an antimalarial agent.
Contraindications
Herba Hyperici is contraindicated in cases of known allergy to plants of the Clusiaceae family.
Warnings
As with other antidepressant drugs, observation of the therapeutic effects of Herba Hyperici may require 2–4 weeks of therapy. If a significant antidepressant effect is not observed after 6 weeks of treatment, a physician should be consulted.