Used for thousands of years, the leaves and flowers of St. John's Wort release a red oil when squeezed. This oil was said to be released near the date of St. John the Baptist’s death. Historically known for its wound-healing properties.

Flowers and leaves used in essential oil, tea, and lotions.

Use the flowers and leaves Anti-inflammatory Antidepressant Antiviral and astringent: use on minor cuts and burns Research suggests may be effective in fighting the AIDS virus Wound healing May ease tension headaches.

 

St. John’s Wort has proven its usefulness as an antidepressant. In twenty-five European studies of mild to moderately severe depression, it was shown to work equally or better than leading antidepressants. St. John’s Wort is the most-prescribed antidepressant in Germany, and is more popular than Prozac. The herb is also used to treat insomnia due to anxiety, and seems to have a positive effect on deep REM sleep. A St. John’s Wort tea may also ease menstrual pain.

St. John’s Wort should not be taken by women who are pregnant or trying to conceive. Although it has a very low incidence of side effects, roughly 2% of people who take the herb experience some mild side effects such as nausea, stomach aches, or photosensitivity. As with all herbal remedies, the benefits of St. John’s Wort may take four to eight weeks.