St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) – Dried Herb, Organic

St. John’s Wort is a perennial herb that grows along roadways and meadows. It is native to Europe but has now naturalized all around the world and grows in temperate climates. It is a member of the family called Hypericaceae, and is traditionally harvested in summer time between June and September.  The plant has star-shaped flowers containing long stamens.

St. John’s Wort has bright yellow flowers with obvious black dots. The leaves when held up to the light also show translucent dots. It has a long history of use in Western herbal medicine and has been thought to help maintain emotional balance and help in depression.

This herb was considered to be a holy plant in the Middle Ages and was believed to be protective against demons and curses.  St. John’s Wort was often associated in the magical world of fairies, witches and saints.  It is thought to be dangerous to grazing livestock in large doses and may act as a poison.  

In the book Native American Ethnobotany, the author lists several native species that were used by the First Nations people for wounds, diarrhea, aching feet, sore eyes and weak lungs.

Properties:

The plant taste is slightly bitter, pungent and sweet. The energetics are neutral and drying. St. John’s Wort is thought to have an affinity for the liver, helping with detoxification. It has an antiviral effect on the immune system and a relaxing and calming effect on the nervous system, specifically as a relaxing nervine. It has a strong astringent action and can also be diuretic to the tissues. Has been traditionally used for pain, depression as well as stress and anxiety.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of St. John’s Wort to one cup of boiling water. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and drink 1/2 cup up to three cups a day. To use as a compress make a tea of the herb in a muslin or teabag and use topically for wounds or rheumatism.

Cautions & contraindications:

Avoid using with pharmaceutical drugs as it can potentially affect their usefulness. It can decrease the levels of estrogen and should not be taken by women using contraceptives. It should be avoided by persons who have Bipolar disorder, dementia or schizophrenia. It may cause dangerous interactions with many prescription medications. Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight during use as it may cause photosensitivity.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.