Hypericum perforatum – Hypericaeceae family
a.k.a.: Klamath weed, Goat’s weed, Qian Ceng Lou, Fuga Daenomun
Most people think of Saint John’s wort as an antidepressant. It is, but this herb offers so much more. This durable plant helps soothe the nervous system, bolster the immune system, and battles bacteria and viruses to boot.
Saint John’s Wort has been on every herbalist’s list of favorites for centuries. Used either as topical or internal medicine, it heals our ragged nerves like no other, offering deep, spiritual healing that lets us truly drink in the sunny beauty of the world. Saint John’s Wort shines a light strong enough to chase away depression, the blues, and a host of other evils.
Collecting Saint John’s Wort is as pleasurable a medicine for the spirit as is using it. This wayside herb grows vigorously anywhere a little sunlight peaks in. It can be seen blooming merrily away in midsummer in the company of bees and beetles. Saint John’s Wort can lighten a mood for an enlightened herbalist before she’s even harvested it.
This second edition is expanded from our first, with more information and new images in each chapter. We’ve added a few new recipes to help you get started as well.
Here you’ll find all you need to add Saint John’s Wort to your herbal practice. Each chapter focuses on a specific aspect of getting to know and love Saint John’s Wort. Start with the perspective that most engages you, then add to your knowledge by exploring further.