St. John’s Wort

I got a bit nostalgic after coming across St. John’s Wort in Naxos. I love this super herb in every way. I would buy it fresh at the organic market in Istanbul, steep it as tea, or bottle it up with olive oil and let it sit in the sun on my patio for weeks (the traditional oil infusion mentioned above).

St. John’s Wort is a super herb topically, but also ingesting it can have profound benefits. But let’s start with putting it on your skin.

It’s known as the “wound healer” due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antibacterial effects. It is often used to soothe nerve pain, muscle aches, and joint discomfort, making it useful in the treatment of conditions like sciatica and arthritis.

It can also be massaged into the lower abdomen to help relieve menstrual cramps due to its muscle-relaxing and pain-relieving properties.

St. John’s Wort oil is sometimes used to reduce the appearance of scars due to its regenerative properties, which can promote smoother, more even-toned skin after healing.

So, that’s one way this super herb can be used. Another is ingesting it.

St. John’s Wort is best known for its use in treating mild to moderate depression. It works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are associated with mood regulation. Many studies suggest it can be as effective as standard antidepressants, such as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), with fewer side effects.

The calming effects of St. John’s Wort make it a popular choice for those seeking a natural remedy for anxiety disorders.

Some women use St. John’s Wort to manage symptoms associated with menopause, such as mood swings and hot flashes. It can be particularly effective when combined with other herbs like black cohosh.

St. John’s Wort can also be helpful in reducing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, including mood swings, irritability, and cramps.

With all herbs, there are precautions, especially with a potent one like St. John’s Wort, so always consult with a practitioner before you start, as tempting as it is.

St. John’s Wort comes in many forms: capsules or tablets, tinctures, and tea for ingestion.