St. John's Wort - Hypericum perforatum

Abstract: Hypericum perforatum is a herbal drug, already used in ancient times (for example as a remedy for skin lesions, as an antidote in theriaks [a protective substance against poisons). Furthermore St. John's wort has been used in the Middle Ages as an psychotropic drug, serving as an apotropaicum (»Fuga daemonum«). It has been proven, that preparations of St. John's wort have been used in exorcism because of its psychoactive effects. Also the history of this medicinal plant shows that even under the mantle of medieval indication, its use as an antidepressive drug is clearly recognized and is nowadays more and more subject of intensive research.

Keyword(s): Hypericum perforatum

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