There are some 490 species of Hypericums, many of which possess bright yellow flowers and the signature perforated leaves. Several species are commonly used as ornamental plants in people’s gardens. The perforations are easiest to see when a leaf is held up to the sun and viewed from beneath, it is quite striking to see how much light comes through. The perforatum species is the most common variety and grows wild on hillsides with ample sun exposure. It is an annual, grows 12”-18” high on single stocks, sometimes 2 or 3 stalks will grow from a single base root. The flower petals are bright yellow and the flower centers are a darker yellow-orange.
St. John’s Wort is the plant that holds the healing power of the sun. It blooms around the feast of Saint John (hence its name), on June 24th at the height of the summer. People used to hang bundles of it above their doors to ward off evil. The star shaped golden yellow blooms are collected and dried or steeped in olive oil that results in a beautiful crimson sun-infused medicinal oil. The oil is then used in salves and oil blends for ailments such as contusions and stagnant strains and sprains, particularly in concert with Arnica. During the winter months, it works well in moisturizers to infuse the body with a memory of the sun and to increase one’s sensitivity to light increasing Vitamin D intake (by “perforating” the energy field, allowing more light into the system), which helps to alleviate the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder. It is a wonderful massage oil on children with growing pains. Internally, tinctures from the fresh plant are used to treat nerve tension and nerve pain, and as an antiviral. Mixed with lemon balm it is an effective treatment for Herpes simplex I and II. St John’s Wort clears out excess emotional debris from the liver and blood, promoting a healthy mood and emotional well-being, and is highly effective as an antidepressant. It opens one’s field to the sun, allowing more light into the emotional body, so much so that in some cases it can result in hyper sensitivity to sunlight. It is a powerful liver clearing herb and helps women who have PMS resulting from liver imbalances. Finally, the tea can be used as a topical antibacterial agent for acne. This plant is not recommended to use while on medicines that need to stay in the body such as anti-rejection drugs in the case of organ transplants. St Joan’s Wort can teach us how to acquire true, deep and lasting clarity, and to fully receive the medicine and wisdom she offers one must create a long- term relationship with her.
If you are interested I have some infused oil and tincture for sale drop me a line for your personal blend! laura@tendrilapothecary.com or 208.597.7944
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