Understanding drug interactions with St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.): impact of hyperforin content.

Objective: The aim of this study was to review herb-drug interaction studies with St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) with a focus on the hyperforin content of the extracts used in these studies.

Methods: PUBMED was systematically searched to identify studies describing pharmacokinetic interactions involving St John's wort.

The Impact of Cocoa Flavanols on Cardiovascular Health.

The aim of the study was to review the effect of cocoa flavanols on cardiovascular health, with emphasis on the doses ingested, and to analyze a range of cocoa products for content of these compounds. PubMed was searched from 2010 to locate systematic reviews (SR) on clinical effects of chocolate consumption. Thirteen SRs were identified and reviewed, and provided strong evidence that dark chocolate did not reduce blood pressure.

Best available evidence in cochrane reviews on herbal medicine?

Cochrane reviews are considered by many to be the "gold standard" or the final word in medical conversation on a topic. We explored the eleven most relevant Cochrane reviews on herbal medicine and identified that frequently herbal medicines in the included studies had not been sufficiently well characterised. If data on the effects of the plant parts are unavailable, effects of co-active ingredients need to be considered and the plausibility of the study medications for the specific indications discussed.