St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum, SJW) is an over-the-counter herbal remedy, which is often utilized for emotional well-being. Hypericum perforatum is a bushy perennial with yellow flowers that bloom around St. John the Baptist's day (June 24th). An oil extract of the fresh flowers contains liposoluble napthodianthrones and phloroglucinols, such as hypericin and hyperforin.In our research, we identified and patented an enriched SJW fraction of Hypericum perforatum that is quite effective as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI). The bioactive ingredient was identified to be hyperforin through an in vitro serotonin reuptake inhibition assay, and by HPLC chemical and mass spectral analyses.
SuperCool™ St. John has been shown in an in vitro serotonin reuptake inhibition assay to exhibit linear dose-response curves with respect to hyperforin content. Hyperforin is a clear, honey-colored and honey-like material that becomes waxy at 4°C; it is insoluble in water and only partially soluble in absolute ethanol.
Permeability measurements, using the in situ single pass perfusion technique in rats, determined that SuperCool™ St. John is very permeable, perhaps 5 to 6 times higher permeability than metoprolol, which has been recommended as a "high permeability" internal standard. Aphios has established SuperCool™ St. John as an enhanced standardized formulation of St. John's Wort based on hyperforin content. This formulation contains natural antioxidants for improved stability and emulsifers for improved bioavailability. The capsule of this product is made from vegetables and does not contain any animal byproducts. The capsules are purged with nitrogen to futher enhance stability. The capsules are contained in an opaque bottle to minimize light intrusion and improve shelf life. This product is free of toxic organic solvents and is an all natural "green product."
