St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

A natural antidepressant that is particularly effective during the winter months. It may also ease menopausal symptoms, exhaustion, anxiety, and difficulties with sleep and concentration.

St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a well known medicinal herb. In folk medicine it has long been used to promote urination, to support recovery from feverish illnesses, for liver and gallbladder discomfort, and for bedwetting. Its most thoroughly researched benefit is its effect on depression. Clinical trials have confirmed its positive influence on low mood and on mild to moderate depression.

Hypericin, one of its active compounds, appears to improve the body’s use of light, which is especially relevant in winter. It can be effective for seasonal low mood. The antidepressant effect develops gradually, with noticeable changes after about two weeks. A small number of individuals may not respond. St John’s wort can lift mood and reduce feelings of exhaustion, fatigue, and apathy. It may also ease unfounded anxiety and sleep disturbances.

It has also been used successfully with children and adolescents who experience difficulties with sleep and concentration.

It is recommended for women in the menopausal transition from around the age of forty.

To prepare the tea, steep one to two teaspoons of dried St John’s wort in hot water for ten minutes. Drink one cup in the morning and one in the evening for at least six consecutive weeks, particularly in winter. The plant’s red oil is traditionally used to support the healing of wounds, scratches, burns, and ulcers.

Harvest during flowering, from mid June to August. Collect only the upper parts of the plant, since the flowers and leaves contain the highest levels of active compounds.

It thrives in sunny or lightly shaded locations, and is propagated by runners in early autumn or by seed.

Warning!

At recommended amounts, side effects are unlikely. Some sources caution that hypericin can increase sensitivity to light, so it is safer to avoid tanning salons and sunbathing while using it.