St. John's Wort

Common Name:

St. John’s Wort

Botanical Name:

Hypericum perforatum

Short Description:

St. John’s Wort is a nervine and antidepressant herb traditionally used to uplift mood, ease mild to moderate depression, and support nerve healing. It also has antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects and is used topically for wounds and nerve pain.

Parts Used:

Flowering tops

Actions:

Nervine, antidepressant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary, nerve trophorestorative

Energetics:

Warming, drying

Body Systems:

Nervous, immune, skin, liver

Spiritual/Energetic Uses:

Dispels darkness and encourages inner light. St. John’s Wort is used to strengthen spiritual boundaries, uplift emotional heaviness, and protect against energetic intrusion or melancholy.

Planetary/Dosha Associations:

Planetary: Sun
Dosha: Balances Vata and Kapha; may aggravate Pitta in excess

Safety Notes:

Can interact with many medications due to its effect on liver enzymes (CYP450). Avoid during pregnancy and with SSRIs. Increases sun sensitivity in some individuals.