Hypericum species

Abstract

DISTRIBUTION: Occurs in a wide variety of habitats, most commonly in stony areas or open grassland. Also near water, in marshy or damp places, between rocks as well as on old lands.BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: Hypericum aethiopicum General: A herb, 20 - 50 cm high with a perennial woody underground root system and annual, mostly unbranched, gland-dotted stems. Leaves: Small, ovate, stalkless, in opposite pairs. Usually dotted with small dark glands. Flowers: Yellow, with reddish-brown sepals, near the tips of the stems. September - March. Fruit: A 3-chambered papery capsule, containing many fine seeds.TOXIC PRINCIPLE: Photodynamic agent: hypericin. Hypericin is a red-fluorescent pigment contained especially in glands (black dots) in the leaves, stems and petals.SYNDROMES: Primary photosensitivity.SYSTEMS AFFECTED: Liver.CLINICAL SIGNS: All animal species are affected when the plants are eaten. Horses are especially sensitive. Poisoning is rare, however. Photodermatitis without icterus.TREATMENT: Keep in shade. Symptomatic treatment of the skin. Antihistamines. Corticosteroids.