St. John’s Wort

St. John's Wort is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Hypericaceae family. It is widely used in phytotherapy for its beneficial properties on the nervous system.

Latin name: Hypericum perforatum

Family: Hypericaceae

Origin: Europe; it is also found in Western Asia and North Africa.

Herb class/action:

- Natural antidepressant

- Mild analgesic

- Anti-inflammatory

- Mild antimicrobial

- Calming and mood-regulating

Parts used: Flowers, leaves (less commonly used)

Flavors:

- Bitter

- Astringent

Energetic properties:

- Regulator of nervous energy

- Promotes mental relaxation and emotional balance

Botanical characteristics:

- Appearance: Herbaceous, low-growing plant reaching 60 to 80 cm, with branched stems.

- Leaves: Opposite, oval, thin, with small transparent glands that give a mottled appearance, hence the name “perforatum.”

- Flowers: Yellow, solitary, star-shaped, with five petals, appearing in summer. Each flower has numerous stamens.

Traditional benefits:

- Used since antiquity to relieve nervous and depressive disorders.

- Known for its calming properties and for promoting good humor.

- Applied locally to treat wounds, injuries, and inflammations.

- Traditionally helps reduce anxiety, agitation, and improve sleep quality.

Related product(s): PERFECT PEACE (Formerly Stress Balance)