How to Use St John's Wort Plant

St John's Wort, also known as Hypericum perforatum, is a flowering plant that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is commonly used as a natural remedy for depression, anxiety, and various other health conditions. In this article, we'll explore how to use St John's Wort plant to reap its numerous health benefits.

Preparing St John's Wort Tea

One of the easiest ways to consume St John's Wort is by preparing a tea. To make St John's Wort tea, you will need to follow these simple steps:

1. Boil some water in a kettle or on a stove.

2. Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried St John's Wort herb and add it to a tea infuser or teapot.

3. Pour the boiling water over the herb and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.

4. Remove the infuser or strain the tea to remove the herb.

5. Sweeten the tea with honey or sugar if desired.

St John's Wort tea can be consumed once or twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bed. It is essential to use only dried St John's Wort herb, as the fresh herb contains a photosensitive compound that can cause skin sensitivity and other adverse reactions.

Making St John's Wort Infused Oil

St John's Wort oil is a natural remedy that helps alleviate pain, heal wounds, and reduce inflammation. To make St John's Wort infused oil, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup of olive oil

- 1 cup of dried St John's Wort herb

- A jar with a tight-fitting lid

- Muslin cloth or cheese cloth

Directions:

1. Pour the olive oil and dried St John's Wort herb into a jar.

2. Stir with a wooden spoon until the herb is entirely covered in oil.

3. Place the jar in a sunny place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it occasionally.

4. Next, strain the oil with a muslin or cheese cloth, pressing the herb to extract as much oil as possible.

5. Transfer the oil into a clean, dark-colored bottle, and store it in a cool, dark place.

St John's Wort oil can be used topically, directly on the skin or added to bath water to soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation.

St John's Wort Capsules

St John's Wort capsules are available at health food stores and online retailers. They are a convenient and easy way to take St John's Wort, especially for those who dislike the herb's taste or do not have time to make tea or oil.

When purchasing St John's Wort capsules, always buy from a reliable manufacturer and check the label for dosage instructions. The standard dosage for St John's Wort capsules is 300mg three times a day.

In conclusion, St John's Wort is an herb with many health benefits, but it is essential to use it correctly to avoid any adverse reactions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using St John's Wort, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking any medications. By following the suggested methods, you can experience the many benefits of St John's Wort and integrate it into your daily wellness routine.