Natural Remedies - Healing with Medicinal Herbs

St John's wort

St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum Hypericaceae/Gutiferae)


Other Names: Perforate St John's Wort, Common Saint John's Wort

St John's Wort, a plant with bright yellow flowers blooming from June to September, grows across Europe in forests, hedges, roadsides, and meadows. Used for over 2,000 years for nervous disorders, it was believed by ancient Greeks to ward off evil spirits. Identify it by black dots on petals and transparent dots on leaves visible against light.


Parts for Use

Flowers

  1. Harvested in summer and dried in bundles.
  2. Used for infusions, tinctures, and liquid extracts.

Ingredients

The yellow flowers contain dark red oil with hypericin and hyperforin, key to its medicinal properties, along with flavonoids and tannins.


Use in Treatment

Traditionally used for burns and skin irritations, St John's Wort is widely prescribed in Europe as a mild antidepressant for depression, nerve fatigue, and insomnia. A 1984 study suggested hypericin acts like a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), while a 1998 German study linked hyperforin to increased serotonin activity. It’s effective for depressive states with weakened nerves and sleep difficulties. Externally, it relieves mild burns, scalds, neuralgia, sciatica, and inflammation.


Cultivation

A perennial weed, St John's Wort is hard to eradicate once established, making it unsuitable for gardens. Grow from seeds in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.


Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Nerve Fatigue, Insomnia, Depression)

  1. Infusion: Steep 1 tsp dried herb in a cup of boiling water for 5 minutes, strain, drink 2 cups daily during meals.
  2. Liquid Extract (1:1 in 25% alcohol): Take 2–4 ml 3 times daily.

For External Use (Burns, Skin Irritation, Neuralgia, Sciatica)

  1. Cream: Apply to affected areas as per instructions.

Warnings

  1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
  2. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  3. Avoid sun exposure when using externally due to photosensitivity risks.
  4. Consult a doctor if taking other medications, as St John's Wort may interact.