St.John's
Wort
(Hypericum Perforatum)
“Wort” is an
Old English word for “plant”,
so don’t confuse it with bumpy skin
conditions. Its use as an anti-depressant
dates back to the Middle Ages.
A wild plant that grows like an aggressive
weed. Commonly found in alkaline soils.
It grows to about 15 inches (35 cm) and
has pretty yellow flowers. The top part
of the flower is picked in full flower.
(There are several different species,
so make sure you pick the right one. Widely
available in health shops and pharmacies
as an extract in pills or capsules. It
is probably easier to purchase it over
the counter.)
It is one of the most tested natural
remedies in existence. Many studies have
produced very positive results (especially
against depression) that its claims are
rarely argued.
Functions / Benefits
Anti-viral properties. Nervine (strengthens
and builds up the nerves). Anti-depressant.
Anti-inflammatory.
Indications
Mild depression. Anxiety. Neurasthenia.
Neuralgia. Nerve pains. Back pains. Puncture
wounds.
Contraindications
- Don’t treat severe depression.
- It should never be taken in combination
with any other type of anti-depressant.
- St. John’s Wort has been proven
to cause uterine contraction in lab animals.
To err on the side of caution, it is best
avoided by pregnant women.
Method & Dose
Ingestion: 2-3 cups of tea.
Ingestion: 3-4 teaspoons of the tincture
daily.
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