St. John’s Wort

50g (1.76oz)

Medicinal Name: Hypericum perforatum

Properties: antidepressant, anxiolytic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, nervine tonic, astringent, vulnerary

Treatment: muscle & joint pain, stress, anxiety, insomnia, mild depression, cold & flu, sciatica, rheumatism, wounds & bruises

Description: St. John’s wort extracts (particularly hypericin, the red pigment found in the petals and leaves) have strong antiviral activity, notably against influenza, herpes, and hepatitis B and C.

When taken internally it has a sedative, restorative and pain-reducing effect, which gives it a place in the treatment of neuralgia, anxiety, tension and similar problems. With its tonic action on the whole nervous system it may be used freely in nervous debility and stress. It is especially regarded as a herb to use where there are menopausal changes triggering irritability and anxiety. It is recommended, however, that it is not used when there is marked depression. In addition to neuralgic pain, it will ease fibrositis, sciatica and rheumatic pain. Externally it is a valuable healing and anti-inflammatory remedy. As a lotion it will speed the healing of wounds and bruises, varicose veins and mild burns. The oil is especially useful for the healing of sunburn.

Preparation: Infusion- pour a cup of boiling water onto 1–3 tsp of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10–15 minutes

Caution: Can cause sensitivity to sunlight. Due to possible interactions, seek professional advice if taking a prescribed medicine, including blood thinners. Restricted in some countries. Do not combine with other antidepressants.

St. John’s wort rarely causes side effects itself, but it does interact with certain conventional medicines, mostly increasing the rate at which they are broken down by the liver. This changes the amount of the drug present in the bloodstream, significantly reducing its effectiveness. In rare situations, this can be life threatening.