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. And, you need to use causation when using other drugs, as you could encounter some pretty serious side effects. The Mayo Clinic has a long list you might want to check out.
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!
One of the ways we’ve found it to be useful is in our natural pain soothing balm. There is some evidence showing it is good at relieving nerve pain (neuralia). Wether it’s the other ingredients or how it works in relation to those ingredients, we find our pain balm is fast acting and long lasting – exactly what we need after a long day on the homestead.
There are several ways you can preserve it for later use. We use a dehydrator, but some people tie up bunches and hang them upside down to dry or they lay them out in the sun.
Have you used St. John’s Wort? If you have, I hope you share a tip or recipe in the comments below.
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(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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