The reason being just what you are discussing, both the dreams and the crazy. The plant spreads rapidly by means of runners or from the prodigious seed production and can invade pastures, disturbed sites, dirt roads, the sides of roads and highways, and sparse woods. The solution to the problem with St. John’s wort in northern California finally proved to be with biological methods of control, not pesticides. It’s bloody red color also lends it well to death and rebirth rituals and celebrations of women’s mysteries. The flowers are used to make liquid extracts, pills, and teas. Many magical and medicinal properties have been ascribed to it and even its name alludes to certain divine connotations: it was named in honor of St. John, the Baptist, who’s saints day is on June 23rd. It also affects the liver, speeding up the metabolic process and removing toxins from the system. As a flower essence St. John’s Wort is especially beneficial for sensitive people, providing emotional protection, healthy boundaries, and the ability to share one’s own unique inner light with others. Common, or perforated, Saint-John’s-wort (Hypericum perforatum) is used in herbal medicine as a treatment for depression and is an aggressive invasive species in some areas. Taking St. John's wort with this anticonvulsant might result in loss of seizure control. St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) Master Class Materia Medica, Folklore, Recipes, Remedies Enroll in Course for $30. By Steph ZabelHerbalist, Ethnobotanist and Educator. In recent times St. John’s Wort has been popularized for its ability to lift the spirits and to alleviate mild depression and seasonal affective disorder. St. John’s wort is native to Europe, West Asia, North Africa, Madeira and the Azores, and is naturalized in many parts of the world, notably North America and Australia. Some are popular perennial, herbaceous, flowering shrubs used in gardens, but only one is found to offer true health benefits: Hypericum Perforatum. Although it’s now too late in the season, next time you come across a flowering St. John’s Wort, crush a blossom between your fingers. The popular herbal therapy is … In one case in 1696, Aubrey tells the story of a poltergeist bothering the occupants of a house in London. When used topically, St. John's wort may cause a skin rash. Get email updates on monthly sales, events, new products and featured blogs! To hurt or to hinder your houses: and bind FOLKLORE AND TRADITIONAL USES The ancient Greeks and Romans placed Saint Johns wort above statues of their gods and in their homes to protect them from evil spirits. However: (a) its use is not supported by high-quality research, (b) its mechanism of action is unknown, (c) the active ingredient, if any, has not been ascertained, and (d) product quality is a serious problem. ‘Thou silver glow-worm, oh! It was noted for its wound-healing and diuretic properties, as well as for the treatment of neuralgic conditions such as back pain. St. John's Wort is an essence to consider to alleviate serious fears of evil, witchcraft, a negative outcome, ghosts, bad dreams, or bad luck. Those that do gather the plant for a charm: If you have a condition such as lupus or are taking medication that can cause photosensitivity (such as some acne medications), review the risks and benefits of taking St. John's wort with your doctor or pharmacist. It has a long history in folklore, and for centuries it was thought that burning it would drive off evil spirits and demons. Even though herbal remedies can and often will improve your health, you should always check the pros and cons of their application, especially if you self prescribe them. Nonetheless, King, in his Dispensatory (1876), mentions its use in urinary affections, diarrhea, worms, jaundice, menorrhagia, hysteria, nervous imbalances with depression, and its usual external applications, including the use of the saturated tincture as a substitute for arnica, in bruises. The wonderful herb whose leaf will decide The plant's yellow flowers symbolize the sun and as such it is a perfect symbol of Midsummer celebrations. St. John’s wort is an herbal extract that has a large body of research supporting its use for treating depression. Only recently have scientists started to study St. John's Wort and its effect on depression and anxiety. The genus name Hypericum comes from the Greek words hyper (above) and eikon (picture) in reference to the traditional usage of the plant to ward off evil by hanging the plants over religious icons on St John’s day. Even the Eclectics, medical doctors from the late 1800’s and early 1900’s who favored herbs in their practice, did not use St. John’s wort much. Other popular folk-uses for St. John’s wort have included: as a decoction for gravel and ulcerations of the ureter; for ulcerations of the kidneys, febrifuge, vermifuge, jaundice, gout, and rheumatism; as an infusion (1 ounce of herb to 1 pint water) for chronic catarrhs of the lungs, bowels, or urinary passages; and as a warm lotion on injuries to the spinal cord, for lacerated or injured nerves, bed sores, and lock-jaw. off original price! Vickery, A.R. Newsgroups: alt.folklore.herbs Subject: St John's Wort From: user646611.aol.com (User646611) Date: 11 Jan 1997 14:53:28 GMT. Then, take one of the plant’s leaves and hold it up to the sunlight. H. coris, another Greek species, was mentioned by Hippocrates and Pliny. Other early uses of Hypericum include as an oil (made by macerating the flowering tops of the plant in oil and then placing them in the sun for two or three weeks), which was “esteemed as one of the most popular and curative applications in Europe for excoriations, wounds, and bruises.” This preparation was even used by the surgeons to clean foul wounds, and was official in the first London Pharmacopeia as Oleum Hyperici. St. John’s wort was used in early pre-Christian religious practices in England, and it has many legends written about it. Yperikon was first mentioned by Euryphon, a Greek doctor from 288 BC. Native to Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia, St. John's wort can be found around the world. With a documented history of continuous use for over 2,000, St. John’s wort may find new applications and wider acceptance into the 21st century. St. John’s wort has been associated with very serious and potentially dangerous interactions with many common drugs. In addition to its effects on your brain, it may also have […] The St. John's wort plant has yellow flowers and is a weed in some parts of the U.S. Hypericum is a plant of ancient use, one that has been a protector and healer of people for centuries. Triptans. I have seen it work wonders for the excruciating pain of shingles. As a practical folk-remedy, it has been used widely to heal wounds, remedy kidney troubles, and alleviate nervous disorders, even insanity, and recent research makes a provocative statement about the ancient uses of St. John’s wort by showing that it is a modern protector against depression and virus infection–two modern demons in their own right. “Traditional uses and flolklore of, C. Hobbs, “St. M. Wichtl, “Hypericum perforatum L. –Das Johanniskraut”, M.H. Scientists are still studying St. John's Wort to see if there are possible treatment applications against … It has been used for medicinal purposes in other parts of the world for thousands of years. For centuries, the flowering plant St. John's wort was used as a health remedy in Europe. And only recently scientists have gathered some evidence on the herb's possible effectiveness as an immune system stimulant. And blushed as she sought the plant of power. This herb is indigenous to Europe, Western Asia and North Africa and is used for various therapeutic applications for more than 3,000 years. St. John’s wort is a plant with yellow flowers that has been used in traditional European medicine as far back as the ancient Greeks. Pick the flowers on St John's Eve, stand on them at midnight, and the spirits may take you away. yellow st. john's wort flower and buds, herbal medicine - st. johns wort stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images. St. John’s Wort also has a great affinity for the whole nervous system. It typically blooms around the summer solstice, the longest day of the year and if you get the juice of the leaves on your skin, it makes that area of the skin more susceptible to damage … The tops of Hypericum were also considered effective for keeping away undesirable influences and bringing luck. The popular herbal therapy is often used to ease symptoms of depression. In the New World, the native American Indians used several indigenous species of Hypericum as an abortifacient, antidiarrheal, dermatological aid, febrifuge, hemostat, snake bite remedy, and general strengthener. St. John’s wort (both oral or topical) can also increase the sensitivity of your skin and eyes to sunlight. St. John`s wort extract in glass bottle and branch of fresh yellow flowers isolated on white background. For physical concerns, St. John's Wort flower essence is particularly called for for post-surgery recovery and healing. St. John's wort has long been a magical plant in folklore. https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/st-johns-wortWood, M. The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plantshttp://www.herbcraft.org/commonherbs.htmlhttp://medherb.com/hypericum-drug-herb.htmlhttp://www.healthy.net/Materia_Medica/St_Johns_Wort_Herbal_Materia_Medica/283. St. John's wort is an herb also known as Amber, Barbe de Saint-Jean, Chasse-diable, Demon Chaser, Fuga Daemonum, Goatweed, Hardhay, Herbe à la Brûlure, Herbe à Mille Trous, Herbe Aux Fées, Herbe Aux Mille Vertus, Herbe Aux Piqûres, Herbe de Saint Éloi, Herbe de la Saint-Jean, Herbe du Charpentier, Herbe Percée, Hierba de San Juan, Hypereikon, Hyperici Herba, Hypericum perforatum, Klamath Weed, Millepertuis, Millepertuis Perforé… With the advent of Christianity, it was associated with St. John the Baptist, and was said to start blooming on his birthday, June 24. St John's Wort: The Bringer of Light. What St. John's Wort Is Used For * St. John's wort has been used for centuries to treat mental disorders and nerve pain. Whole herbs + Knowledgeable user = A Safe Combination. Users of this Web site should not rely on information provided on this Web site for their own health problems. on August 29, the anniversary of the saint’s beheading, while others considered that the best day to pick the plant was on June 24, the day of St. John’s feast. Due to the rich history and folklore remedies associated with it, St. John's Wort has been studied extensively and found to be therapeutic in treating depression. One of the first references to the plant is from Griffith (1847), who says it can be used as an oil or ointment for ulcers, tumors, and as a diuretic. From the time of the ancient Greeks down through the Middle Ages, the plant was considered to be imbued with magical powers and was used to ward off evil and protect against disease. Pliny called the ground pine Hyperikon, though also chamaepitys and corion. Medicinal plants from the southern Appalachians such as foxglove, St. John's wort, witch hazel, mayapple, Indian tobacco, butterfly weed, blue cohosh, Queen Anne's lace, Oswego tea and peppermint. Medical St. John`s Wort Hypericum perforatum, useful plant blooms with yellow small flowers, background. It can also be burned during rituals of exorcism, especially of poltergeists. 1600) tells of the ointment he made of the plant as being a “most precious remedy for deepe wounds”, and adds that “there is not a better natural balsam….to cure any such wound”. * St. John's wort has also been used as a sedative and a treatment for malaria, as well as a balm for wounds, burns, and insect bites. Learn more about her work at: www.flowerfolkherbs.com and www.herbstalk.org. In 1946, the leaf-beetles Chrysolina quadrigemina Rossi, and to a lesser extent C. hyperici Forst, were introduced from Australia, where it had been observed that they had a voracious appetite for Hypericum. Lists the various brand names available for medicines containing st. john's wort. For instance, Gerard (ca. In general, I find that St. John’s Wort is an amazing support for sensitive people who tend to feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed in new social situations, or who need to feel more protected in order to express themselves. For instance, one belief was that bringing the flowers of St. John’s wort into the house on a midsummer eve would protect one from the evil eye, banish witches, promote good fortune and protect the house from fire. During the Middle Ages, St. John's wort … It has yellow, star-shaped flowers. As a result, your doctor will likely advise you to avoid the combination. Spring is a long way off but I am looking for information on how to harvest it and then what to do with it afterward to make it useable. The common name, St. John’s wort, is obviously a reference to St. John. Saint-John’s-wort A genus of perennial herbs and shrubs bearing yellow flowers (Hypericum perforatum), believed to have the power to drive away the devil, Demons, witches, imps, Fairies, and Ghosts. Folklore dictates that the herb wards off evil influences and protects against harmful, unseen forces. Distribution St John’s wort is a native of Europe, Asia and North Africa, and is a weed in 21 countries. St. John’s Wort herb and its essential oil have a long history and were used by Naturopaths and Physicians of all the predominant traditions in the world. St. John’s Wort is linked with the Sun and Leo, Midsummer’s Day, or St. John’s Day. Can you see small window-like holes in the leaf? In the … In Australia, Victoria was first to record St John’s wort as a weed, in 1893. Linnaeus, who described the genus, thought that Hypericum came from yper (upper) and eikon (an image). St. John’s wort can increase the rapid breakdown of irinotecan (Camptosar) by the body and decrease the efficacy of irinotecan (Camptosar). St. John's wort is an easy plant to grow, being tolerant of a number of challenging conditions. What I can say is that in many traditions which are based in part on magick and where herbs and potions are used St John's Wort is seen as a herb that is assocaited with both dreaming as well as psychic abilities. In my experience it is indeed very useful when one feels melancholic, especially in the deep winter months. The coupon code you entered is expired or invalid, but the course is still available! How to Grow St. John's Wort . St. John’s wort is not your only option for treating SAD. St John’s Wort’s primary claim to fame is as a potent medicinal plant. Although many older authors attest that the ancients knew of Hypericum as Fuga daemonum and used it to drive away demons, none make reference to any specific writers. You may want to consider exercise, fish oil or light therapy once the herb is out of your system. since the plant may have been placed over religious icons as a symbol of protection. The oblong, medium green leaves are smooth and turn yellow-green in fall. Because of its bright yellow color, it was often associated with the sun and was often used for purposes of divination–for every situation from longevity to test one’s chances for matrimony. 1650), who was fond of ascribing astrological signs to medicinal herbs, says that Hypericum “is under the celestial sign Leo, and the dominion of the Sun.” He goes on to say that “it is a singular wound herb, healing inward hurts or bruises,” and that as an ointment “it opens obstructions, dissolves swelling and closes up the lips of wounds.” Also, he claims it is good for those who “are bitten or stung by any venomous creature, and for those that cannot make water”–which use modern science confirms–and adds that the plant helps with “sciatica, the falling sickness and the palsy.”. St. John's Wort Saint John's Wort is an outstanding herbal remedy steeped in many folk legends and traditions of healing. FOLKLORE: St John's Wort The flowers of St John's Wort should be picked on it's most powerful day, St John's Day - June 24th. St. John’s Wort can be added to the fires for Midsummer celebrations and used to make garlands. In particular I have found it remarkable for its ability to help with feelings of nervousness, anxiety and vulnerability. She teaches herbal classes, is available for individual wellness consultations, and is also the founder of HERBSTALK, Boston’s community herbal conference. St. John’s wort is a member of the genus Hypericum, of which there are 400 species worldwide, and a member of the St. John’s wort family, Hypericaceae. St. John’s wort is known for its ability to “let in the light” and as a healer of wounds. Shrubby St. John’s Wort is a very small deciduous shrub that grows to 3 ft. tall, with wonderful exfoliating dark brown, almost purple colored bark. Annies Remedy - Herbs for Self Healing  St. Johns Wort. Herbalist, author, botanist, mycologist & research scientist. However, the research studies conducted to show effectiveness for these uses have not given any substantial evidence in its support, so far. St. John’s wort is associated with light. Several noted English herbalists, reflecting the general beliefs of their time, wrote very favorably of the virtues of St. John’s wort. For years an attempt was made to control the plant with herbicides, but with little success. St. John's wort can interact with antidepressant medications. The large, yellow flowers turn into a great looking 3-celled capsule (pictured here) that makes for a great look all winter. While St. John’s wort’s effects on your body are not fully understood, it’s thought to work similarly to antidepressants. Folklore dictates that the herb wards off evil influences and protects against harmful, unseen forces. In the western United States, St. John’s wort is especially prevalent in northern California and southern Oregon, hence one of its common names, “Klamath Weed”. The dried herb may also be used as a tea. Herbalist, Ethnobotanist and Educator St. John's Wort is a plant of ancient use, one that has been a protector and healer of people for centuries. Steph Zabel is an herbalist and educator based in Somerville, MA who helps urban dwellers connect with the plant world. This poem is translated from the German, where this custom was also practiced: The young maid stole through the cottage door, st. john's wort history, folklore, literature & more St. Johns wort has been used in herbal healing for more than 2,000 years, most notably for its ability to speed wound healing. Scientific studies have been performed in the laboratory and clinic to support these uses, some of which follow the ancient applications detailed above. Among the many medicinal herbs used throughout the long history of Occidental culture, St. John’s wort, Hypericum perforatum L., has always been and still is of great interest. St John’s wort now infests large areas in NSW, Victoria St. John’s Wort (Hypericum Perforatum) interacts with Irinotecan (Camptosar) To treat cancer, Irinotecan (Camptosar) is used. If you're considering adding St. John's wort to your treatment plan, it's important to discuss why you are considering taking both medications with your doctor. A well-placed bunch of St. John’s wort under the householder’s pillow proved to exorcise the apparition. Irinotecan (Camptosar) is broken down by the body to get rid of it. The word \"wort\" means \"plant\" in Old English. It seems fitting that such bright yellow flowers would be uplifting in darker days, especially Hypericum flowers which bloom right at the peak of summer, when the days are longest. St. John's Wort Folklore and History . If you sometimes suffer from seasonal melancholy or from “the blues”, you might consider bringing this joyful, light-filled herb into your life. Dioscorides, Pliny, and Theophrastus do not mention either this name or this use of the plant, but herbalists from the 16th and 17th centuries commonly mention the name. Hypericum perforatum, known as perforate St John's-wort, common Saint John's wort, or simply St John's wort, is a flowering plant in the family Hypericaceae and the type species of the genus Hypericum.. St. John's wort has several traditional uses. As always, make sure your cuts and scrapes are well cleaned, and then you can apply St. John’s wort oil to help it heal quicker. -St. John's Wort carried on the person destroys a witch's power to harm.-The leaves of St. John's Wort could be uses in a fortune-telling rite to determine who a young woman would marry.-If one sleeps with a sprig of St. John's Wort under their pillow, St. John The Baptist will appear in one's dreams. 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