Herbs & Botanicals

Product Description

Botanical Name: Hypericum perforatum

Plant Family: Hypericaceae

Botanical Description:
Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. It typically grows between 30 to 90 centimetres in height, featuring erect, branched stems with opposite, oblong leaves that are dotted with translucent glands. St. John's Wort produces bright yellow, star-shaped flowers with five petals and numerous stamens, arranged in clusters at the ends of the stems. The flowers bloom and are harvested in mid-summer around St. John's day. It continue flowering into early autumn, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. St. John's Wort is characterized by its distinctive red sap and aromatic foliage.

Introduction:
St. John's Wort has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back thousands of years. Revered by ancient civilizations for its potential medicinal properties, St. John's Wort has been employed in various cultures around the world. It is perhaps best known for its use in preparations for low mood, although it has been associated in a wide range of traditional uses both internally and externally.

Preparations:
Infusion: Prepare a St. John's Wort infusion by steeping dried St. John's Wort leaves and flowers in hot water for 6-10 minutes. Strain and drink the infusion as a tea.
Tincture: Prepare a St. John's Wort tincture by macerating fresh St. John's Wort leaves and flowers in alcohol (such as vodka or brandy) for several weeks. Strain the tincture and store it in a dark glass bottle. Take the tincture orally by diluting it in water or juice according to the dosage instructions provided on the product label or by a qualified herbalist.
Oil Infusion: Prepare a St. John's Wort oil infusion by macerating fresh St. John's Wort leaves and flowers in a carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil) for several weeks. Strain the infused oil and use it topically. St. John's Wort oil can be applied directly to the skin or added to homemade salves, creams, or massage oils.
Capsules: St. John's Wort extract is available in capsule form for convenience. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner for appropriate dosing.