St. John’s Wort

(Hypericum perforatum) Part used: Tops. Properties: Astringent, alternative, diuretic, nervine, sedative. What it affects: Stomach, bladder, blood, liver and nerves.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep the leaves 5-15 min. Take 1 oz. when needed, up to 1 cup daily. Tincture: 10-20 drops as needed. Fluid extract: Take 1/2 - 1 tsp. as needed. Powder: Take 5-10 #0 capsules (30-60 grains) as needed.

Purposes: Internally, St. John’s wort purifies the blood and is used for diarrhea, dysentery, jaundice, boils, suppressed urine, as well as uterine and afterbirth pains. It is good for bed-wetting, hysteria, coughs, irregular menstruation, uterine disorders, muscle pains and bruises, tenderness and pain in the spine. It is a good expectorant for bronchial and lung problems. The herb should be taken close to meals.

Externally, Steep the flowers in olive oil for 2 weeks and then apply. The extracted oil of St. John’s wort can be applied to bruises, wounds, and other skin problems, especially those that are sensitive. Also apply the oil to hard tumors, ulcers, burns and swollen breasts.

 
Warning: St. John’s wort makes the skin more light-sensitive. Those who have light skin should avoid exposure of the area (where the herb has been applied) to strong sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light, including tanning beds. If used to support treatment of depression, its effectiveness should be checked by a nutritionally oriented doctor after 4-6 weeks. It should not be used at the same time as prescription anti-depressants, or during pregnancy or lactation.