Welcome to the first entry in our Herb Materia Medica Series! This series will share the magical world of herbs and all the knowledge I have gathered in my own personal materia medica. Please feel free to add any additional information in the comments!
Number #1 - St Johns Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Growing conditions in Australia;
Prefers light, sandy soils and likes sun but can be kept in part-shade. Flowers appear 2nd year after planting, appearing in late-Spring to early Summer. It likes a fair amount of water and can be raised in pots.
Parts used;
The young flowering tops or 80% flowers to 20% leaves
Key Actions;
- Antidepressant
- Anxiolytic
- Antiviral
- Wound Healer
- Anti-inflammatory
Key Constituents;
- Phloroglucinols (hyperforin)
- Polycyclic diones (hypericin)
- Flavonoids
Medicinal uses;
- Nerve Regeneration abilites
- Anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory
- Nerve damage, trauma to the muscle tissue, cuts and wounds
- Bruises, sprains, burns and other injuries respond well to the oil
- Tinctures commonly used for nerve disorders, stress and pain
- It is also a mild bronchial antispasmodic and can be used to relieve hacking coughs, bronchitis and chest colds. It is also used to treat neuralgic pain, sciatics and rheumatic pain.
( Rosemary Gladstar)
- Used for mild to moderate depression - 1/2 tspn of tincture with water 3 times daily
- Has strong anti-viral activity especially against influenza, herpes and hepatitis C and B
- Great nerve tonic as it restores and protects the nerves. Also used for Seasonal Affective Disorder, chronic anxiety and improves sleep quality
- Menopause - often mixed with black cohosh for depression in menopause
- The oil has potent healing properties, apply to wounds, punctures, minor burns, shingles, sciatica and toothache (relieves neuralgia)
(Andrew Chevalier)
Contraindications;
can cause sensitivity to light. Can interact with prescription medication so seek professional advice. Do not combine with other antidepressants.
How to use;
Use in either a tincture or as an oil, which can also be made in creams and salves.
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