Hypericum perforatum 

Medicinal Preparations:

Tincture (ratio & % alcohol): Fresh: 1:2 or 1:3                   
Drops: 10-90   Times a day: 4x

Glycerite:  Fresh: 1:4    Glycerin: 50%    Alcohol: 50%
Drops: 10-60    Times a day: 4x

Oil: Fresh: 1:2  Drops: 30-90   Times a day: 3x
Capsules: "00"  1:2  Times a day: 1-3x

Habitat and Botanical Description:

St. John’s Wort, originally from Europe, specifically the Mediterranean, was brought to North America by early European settlers. This introduction likely occurred during the colonial era, as immigrants transported the plant for its medicinal and ornamental value. Over the years, St. John’s Wort adapted to a wide range of climates across the continent, becoming a prevalent wildflower in various regions. It thrives in diverse habitats such as grasslands, pastures, and forest clearings, particularly in areas disturbed by fire, logging, or roadwork. The plant spreads through seeds and rhizomes and flourishes in regions with winter rains. It is recognized for its striking golden yellow flowers with five petals, which bloom on green stems that typically reach 1-3 feet in height

Medicinal Uses:

St. John's wort, with a touch of nature's magic, is a gentle nervine known for calming nervous exhaustion. Ideal for those struggling with chronic insomnia, it's best taken during the day for tranquility and in higher doses at night as a sedative. For children grappling with ADD and not yet on medication, this herb serves as a gentle aid. It can be blended with other calming herbs like lemon balm, wild oats, and gotu kola, offering a natural step before considering medication.

As a natural antidepressant, St. John's wort is a restorative for the nervous system. It's beneficial for lifting moods in cases of mild to moderate depression, PMS symptoms (taken a couple of weeks before the cycle), and seasonal affective disorder. It's especially helpful for those feeling stuck and frustrated, but patience is key; its effects unfold over time with consistent use.

Hypericum is effective in reducing inflammation in muscles, joints, and mucus membranes. It also alleviates nerve pain associated with conditions like herpes, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It's useful for treating sciatica, back spasms, stress headaches, and neck pain, particularly when its oil is massaged into the affected area, possibly combined with arnica and poplar bud oils for enhanced pain relief.

Its antiviral properties make Hypericum valuable for treating conditions like herpes, hepatitis C, and HIV, both internally and topically. It can be used as a tonic for frequent herpes outbreaks, with higher doses at the onset of symptoms. In case of an outbreak, applying it topically can help control pain. Its dual effect of calming nerves and acting as an antiviral can reduce outbreak frequency and duration, especially when stress triggers them.

Externally, St. John's wort is a valuable addition to any home apothecary. It improves capillary health and reduces scarring, benefiting slow-healing nerve tissues. It's effective for treating bruises, abrasions, broken bones, cysts, and surgical wounds, using high-quality oil or as a tea. If diluted, it can be used as a liniment for sensitive wounds. Additionally, it's useful for treating hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

Harvesting: 

To harvest St. John's Wort, start by collecting the flowering tops, the first 3 inches or so, adorned with leaves. With mindful care, strip the leaves and flowers, and prepare them for your tincture. Fill a jar with these vibrant blossoms and cover them with grape or grain alcohol to create a 1:2 fresh flower tincture, a potent elixir of healing.

For crafting an oil, begin by allowing the leaves and flowers to wilt, which enhances their hypericin and aromatic properties. Use the traditional method: fill a jar with the flowering tops, then remove and grind them as though weaving a spell. Return them to the jar and top it off with Extra Virgin Olive Oil. To ensure the flowers stay submerged, place a pickling pebble, crystal, or clean stone on top. Seal the jar and place it near a warm window for six weeks. The warmth of the sun will draw out the red pigment, infusing the oil with its medicinal essence.

Once the infusion is complete, strain the oil and let it rest overnight to allow any remaining water-soluble elements to settle. Decant the oil gently. Both the oil and tincture, prepared with reverence, will retain their potency for years. This sacred oil, a gift from St. John’s Wort, offers healing both internally and externally, a testament to the profound grace of nature.

Note: Dried herb lacks the medicinal potency; fresh is always best.

Recommended Products:

• Witch in the Woods Beauty Balm

Contraindications:

Reports of photosynthesizing effects on individuals who use St. john's wort internally in high doses. Use the normal therapeutic dose. Taking St. John's internally may decrease the effects of oral contraceptives.