Hyperforin: A lead for Antidepressants
Md Sarfaraj Hussain*1, Md Zaheen Hasan Ansari2
and
Muhammad Arif1
1Faculty
of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow 226026.
2Department
of Pharmaceutical chemistry, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi
110062.
*For
Correspondence:
Tel: +91-
9889902496
E-mail:
sarfarajpharma@gmail.com
Received:
28-Dec-08 Revised:
09-Jan-09 Accepted: 13-Jan-09
International Journal of Health Research,
March
2009; 2(1):
15-22 (e2110p83-90)
Review Article
Abstract
Depression is a complex but treatable disorder if
diagnosed appropriately. However, despite the advances
in the understanding of the molecular basis of this
disorder and the vast range of medication, psychotherapy
and electroconvulsive therapy, very safe and effective
drug to treat this disease is still being sought.
Several studies suggest that St.John’s wort (Hypericum
perforatum L.) has phloroglucinol derivative,
hyperforin, exhibiting antidepressant activity. This
bioactive component can be exploited to create a major
shift in the safer treatment of depression.
Keywords:
Hypericum perforatum L., St. John's wort, Antidepressant,
Hyperforin
