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Effects of St John's Wort

St. John's Wort, the botanical name is Hypericum Perforatum, is a perennial herb used to treat a variety of illnesses and as an anti-depressive, anti-inflammatory and analgesic.

  1. Features

    • St. John's Wort grows best in the lime-rich soils of Europe, Australia and the United States. The herb's leaves, stems and flowers are used for medicinal purposes.

    History

    • Records from the Roman Empire list St. John's Wort as a tonic for nerves, England dates its use to the 1600s, and Native Americans used it to treat diarrhea, snakebites and minor wounds.

    Antidepressant

    • St. John's Wort causes a relaxing effect on the body, which relieves mild depression, anxiety and seasonal affected disorder (SAD).

    Anti-Inflammatory

    • St. John's Wort has anti-inflammatory qualities and helps relieve swelling in the joints, muscles and colon, making it useful to treat arthritis, gout, myalgia and diarrhea.

    Analgesic

    • St. John's Wort has a pain relieving, or analgesic, effect on the skin, making it a topical treatment for burns, wounds and contusions.

    Warning

    • St. John's Wort can interact with some drugs, so consult a physician before using. St. John's Wort also causes sensitivity to sunlight, so use precaution when outside while taking.

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