St John's Wort
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Botanical name
Hypericum perforatum
Common Names
Hypericum
FAMILY
Hypericaceae
Description
Favoured for its pain-relieving sedative inducing properties, this herb treats a wide range of conditions.
Part supplied
The chopped herb.
Food Use
Recipes
Use 1 teaspoon of dried herb to one cup of boiling water to make a tasty tea. Infuse for 5-10 minutes. Sweeten with honey or lemon to taste.
Alternatively add half a teaspoon (2.5 ml) of tincture to a cup of warm water for a quick alternative to tea.
The herb can be added as a flavouring to gin, vodka and other infusions.
Medicinal Use
Traditionally used as a tonic for the whole nervous system, also useful in all conditions involving nerve pain, for low mood and mild to moderate depression.
Key actions: Nervine tonic, antiviral, antidepressant, vulnerary (aids wound healing), microbial (when applied topically).
In clinic: Herbalists use this herb for the treatment of depression, menopausal neurosis, hysteria and neuralgia.
If you are interested in the medicinal use of this herb please consult a herbalist. Herbs are generally used at medicinal strength, in blends, prescribed for each unique patient's condition.
Directions
Infusion: 1 to 2 teaspoons of herb (2 to 4 g) to a cup of cold water. Pour boiling water over the herb and leave to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes. Flavour with lemon, ginger or honey if desired. Drink 3 times a day unless otherwise told by a medical herbalist.
Tincture: Take 4 ml (1:3 in 45% tincture), 3 times a day or as directed by a practitioner.
Fluid extract: 1:1 Take 2 to 4 ml, 3 times a day or as directed by a practitioner.
Dried Herb: Maximum of 12 g per day may be taken as a powder or capsules.
Other Uses
Cosmetic Use
None known.
Other Uses
None known.
Cautions
Contraindications
Do not use during laser or ultraviolet phototherapy.
This herb is considered safe in food amounts. Do not take if you are allergic to this plant or other members of this plant's family (Hypericaceae). Not all herbs are suitable in pregnancy, breastfeeding or for young children. If in doubt, please ask us or your medical herbalist.
St John's wort should not be taken to treat serious forms of depression that demonstrate suicidal risk or psychotic symptoms. Although, it may be an effective supplement to take in conjunction with psychotherapy or drug therapy.
PREGNANCY
Avoid if breastfeeding before seeking professional advice.
Side effects
St John's wort may cause a variety of adverse reactions. Gastrointestinal complaints occur quite frequently, whereas photosensitivity, erythoderma (dermatitis) are less frequent. Plant extracts cause few side effects when taken correctly but if a side effect is experienced please contact us.
Interactions with druGS
Check with your herbalist, pharmacist or doctor before taking st john's wort if you are taking any medicines from your doctor. Read more safety advice for St. John's Wort here.
Herbal remedies and supplements can interact with medicines. If you are taking medication please check with your medical practitioner, or call us, before taking herbs, supplements and medication together.
More Information
Articles
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Recipes
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