St John's Wort Herb Profile
Also known as
Hypericum perforatum, Perforated bush, Hypericum, and Klamath weed.
Introduction
St. John's wort rose from virtual obscurity in the U.S. to become the fifth best selling dietary supplement in mainstream retail stores. Its rise to fame came after the national media reported clinical research showing that it was safe and effective for treating mild to moderate depression, and the Greek physician Hippocrates (ca. 460-377 B.C.E.) was one of the first to speak of the health benefits of St. Johns Wort. Some of the original folklore uses of this versatile plant were in treating bedwetting, rheumatism, and gout. A St. John's wort oil made with the blossoms and olive, sunflower, or, preferably, wheat germ oil has been used for centuries for treating wounds and burns.
Constituents
Hypericin and related compounds, rutin, bitters, and tannins.
Parts Used
The dried flowering tops and leaf.
Typical Preparations
Traditionally used as a tea, sometimes available in tea bags; also used to make a red St. John's oil for use in liniments and lotions, but only from fresh material. May also be administered as a capsule or extract for convenience.
Summary
A large volume of scientific research suggests that only a standardized extract delivering a rather high dose of the hypericin found in St. John's wort treats depression" so how can the successful use of the much milder traditional teas of St. John's wort to treat depression be explained? St. John's wort as a whole herb gives the body "just enough medicine" to overcome the physical aches and pains and mild viral infections that keep the brain from recovering from depression. Nineteenth century Eclectic physicians in the United States used St. John's wort to relieve pain caused by injuries to the spine and puncture wounds in the hands and feet. The herb was noted for its ability to slow frequent urination, and treat "throbbing pains" of any origin.
Precautions
St. John's wort extracts may increase sensitivity to sunlight and risk of sunburn, but this is extremely rare when the whole herb is used. Not to be used with a MAO or Protease inhibitor.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
