Medicinal Monday – St. John’s Wort

I have a strong desire to know more about natural paths to healing; whether it be massage, pressure points that manipulate meridians, herbal medicines, I believe the further away we get from ‘big pharma’, the better off we will be…for the most part (when in doubt, always contact a physician).

There will always be a need for the ‘big guns’, but isn’t it nice that nature more than provides for our day to day, more “basic” needs?

I present to you, Saint John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum L.)

It’s been used for millennia to make liniments, tinctures, decoctions, teas, etc. to treat sprains and strains, sore muscles, mouths and throats, and a myriad of other ailments. It has even used to treat mild anxiety and depression.  Antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds have been found in it.

A word of warning, it can cause photodermatitis (skin burns) on sensitive persons when exposed to light.

Preparations of St. John’s wort can be found on your local drug store shelves, though, I found this growing in the wilds of our homestead. Pretty amazing, if you ask me!

Have you used St. John’s Wort? If you have, I hope you share a tip or recipe in the comments below.

(Disclaimer: I am not a Physician nor am I Certified Herbalist. The information provided on this site has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent conditions, illnesses or diseases, it is purely anecdotal and stem from my own personal fascination with the natural world around me. I use the following for my research: Peterson Field Guides – Western Medicinal Plants and Herbs, The Complete Medicinal Herbal by Penelope Ody, books and videos by Rosemary Gladstar and Susun Weed, as well as various internet posts. I encourage you to do your own research. Before trying any herbal remedy, consult a physician or certified medical professional to make sure it is safe for you to use.)

 

 

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Content and Photos by Misty Meadows Homestead and S.Lago © All Rights Reserved

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