Description

Hypericin is a naphthodianthrone, a red-colored anthraquinone-derivative, which,together with hyperforin, is one of the principal active constituents ofHypericum (Saint John\'swort). Hypericin is believed to act as an antibiotic, antiviral andnon-specific kinase inhibitor. Hypericin may inhibit the action of the enzymedopamine β-hydroxylase, leading to increased dopamine levels, although thuspossibly decreasing norepinephrine and epinephrine.