ST. JOHN’S WORT: Herb Of The Month
Botanical name: Hypericum perforatum L.
Part used: the herb
General Description:
St. John’s Wort shrub is a perennial plant with numerous bright yellow flowers. It is native to Europe and the United States.
Chemical Composition: Pseudohypericin, flavonoids, xanthones, essential oils, carontenoids, alkanes, phytosterols, and medium chain fatty acid alcohols
Historical Use: St. John’s Wort has a long history of folk use. The ancient Greek physician used it as treatment of many illnesses and also to dispel evil spirits. Many people from the time of ancient Greece to Medieval times used St. John’s Wort for various conditions attributing magical properties to the herb.
Functions:
- Anti-depressant activity
- Anti-viral activity against herpes and influenza
- Anti-bacterial activity
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-Cancer properties
- Promotes tissue repair
Energetic Properties:
- Bitter, sweet, cool and dry
- Relax, restore, astringent, stimulating
Traditional Therapeutic and Clinical uses:
- Depression
- Neuralgia
- Sciatica
- Muscular rheumatism
- Herpes Simplex 1 and 2
- HIV/ AIDES
- Toothaches
- Inflammation
- Animal Bites
- Nerve Pain
Preparation and Dosages:
Infused oil of Hypericum can be used topically for nerve pain, rheumatism, and viral skin conditions.
Standardized Extract to contain .3% Hypericin – Take 1 tablet; 3 times per day
Dried Herb Infusion – Make a tea with 2 grams of herb: drink 3 times per day
Tinctures vary according to the strength of the mixture. See label for recommended use.
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