Study designs of evaluations included in the review
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-randomised (e.g. alternation) controlled trials were included.
Specific interventions included in the review
Preparations containing extract of Hypericum, either alone or in combination with other plant extracts, in comparison with placebo or with maprotiline, bromazepam, amitriptyline, diazepam, desipramine and imipramine.
Participants included in the review
People with depressive disorders, mainly classed as mild-to-moderate severe depression, were included.
Outcomes assessed in the review
All clinical outcome measures, such as depression scales or symptoms, were assessed. The most frequently used scales were the Hamilton Depression Scale and the Clinical Global Impression Index. Trials which measured physiological parameters only were excluded. The number of patients reporting and dropping out because of side-effects was also considered.
How were decisions on the relevance of primary studies made?
At least two reviewers assessed the eligibility of each trial; there were no disagreements.