St. John's wort is useful. St. John's wort: beneficial properties, contraindications, side effects, use of decoction, infusion for treatment. For gargling

In folk medicine, it is difficult to find a medicinal plant used more often than St. John's wort, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which were described by the famous Soviet herbalist Mikhail Nosal. An experienced herbalist called the plant a remedy for ninety-nine diseases. Without it, as Mikhail Andreevich noted, many diseases of children and adults cannot be treated. The plant can be used independently, but is more often included in a complex of phytotherapeutic preparations.

Features of St. John's wort

By its name, the culture is associated with a dangerous culture, capable of “beating animals.” In fact, the plant is absolutely safe in its natural habitat, non-toxic. Its name comes from the Kazakh term “jerabai”, which means “healer of wounds”.

St. John's wort or common St. John's wort is part of the large St. John's wort family. The term “perforated” arose from the external characteristics of the culture. Specks of resinous sap form on its leaves. When illuminated by the sun, these spots refract the light in such a way that they appear to be holes.

Description

St. John's wort. Botanical illustration from the book “Flora von Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz” by O. V. Thome, 1885.

The perennial herbaceous plant has a thin but powerful rhizome that can grow to great depths. Every year, the upper grassy part dries out in the fall and grows back in the spring. Several thin stems rise from the root. At the beginning of development, they attract attention with a rich green color; as the growing season progresses, they become reddish-brown. The height of the stems is different. Some bushes grow no more than forty centimeters, others grow up to one meter.

The stem is smooth but uneven. Periodic internodes and edges are noticeable on it. Using the latter, you can accurately determine the type of plant. St. John's wort has two faces, they are located strictly opposite, and in relation to the internodes, clearly at an angle of ninety degrees.

The question of what St. John's wort looks like is important when planning harvesting. The culture is very similar to its closest “relatives” from the St. John's wort family. Nine species grow in our country.

They are distinguished by a number of characteristics:

• spotted - has four edges (edges) on each stem;
• rough - the stem is covered with small hairs, but there are no ribs on it at all;
• mountain - the stem is covered with sparse whitish needles, there are no ribs.

As the stem grows, it becomes covered with periodic leaves. They are located infrequently, strictly opposite, elliptical or oval in shape. The leaves are small, grow up to three centimeters in length, and reach one and a half centimeters in width. Characteristic points of a resinous substance are “scattered” along their plane, which is why the leaves look full of holes.

Common St. John's wort blooms with bright golden-yellow flowers, collected in inflorescences in the form of a shield or panicle. The type of crop can be determined during the flowering period. If you rub a golden flower between your fingers, your skin will turn red.

The flowering period of each plant is long, about one month. The general flowering period of St. John's wort occurs in the summer months - from June to August. Then boxes are formed on the stems - containers for seeds. They are ovoid in shape and consist of three valves. By the end of September, all the stems are covered with such boxes.

Geography and distribution

Where St. John's wort grows is well known to herbalists. This unpretentious crop is often found in sunny areas. It prefers well-lit clearings, forest edges, and meadows, often adjacent to young pines in the undergrowth. You can find grass along roads, under fences of summer cottages, and in abandoned fields.

In Russia, it grows within the temperate climate zone to Siberia, Baikal and Transbaikalia. But more often it grows in thickets in warm regions of the Caucasus and Crimea.

In its natural environment, St. John's wort grows freely and actively in the Volgograd and Pskov regions. Its distribution areas are noted in the Krasnodar Territory, Altai and Stavropol Territory. There are also designated plantations where the crop is harvested centrally for the needs of the pharmaceutical industry.

Collection and preparation

The medicinal properties of the herb St. John's wort largely depend on the time of its collection. The period for harvesting is determined by the time period of flowering of the crop until the formation of fruits. Collect the upper part of the plant, capturing stems no more than thirty centimeters long. Tough shoots are left on the root.

During collection, it is necessary to use pruners, scythes and other cutting tools. This is important for preserving the root system of the crop in the ground, from which new shoots will develop next year. Pulling out a plant by its roots leads to its destruction, a decrease in population and a decrease in the quality of raw materials. You should also periodically save stems with flowers on the site for seed propagation.

The harvested raw materials are formed into bags and bales and quickly delivered to the drying site. There they lay it out on paper under a canopy, spread it in a thin layer up to seven centimeters and leave it to dry. As the grass is harvested, it must be stirred and turned over. St. John's wort is ready when its stems break easily.

Composition and properties

According to herbalist Mikhail Nosal, the question of why St. John's wort is useful should be considered broadly. In addition to the fact that this plant has an exceptional composition and is superior in value to most other medicinal crops, it retains its healing qualities for a long time.

Mikhail Andreevich compared the therapeutic power of St. John's wort with the healing strawberry. But, according to the scientist, the value of the grass is higher, since strawberries can be used only three months a year, during the fruiting period. The use of St. John's wort is possible throughout the year, since its chemical composition remains practically unchanged after drying.

The composition of phytoraw materials has been well studied. The main components are tannins, their volume in the raw material reaches thirteen percent. High content of resinous substances - up to seventeen percent. Flavanoids are recognized as important elements - rutin, hyperoside, quercitrin, as well as carotenes and ascorbic acid are identified in the composition.

Recent studies have identified other compounds that were not previously known. It has been established that St. John's wort contains steroid substances and the antibiotic hyperforin. Such a rich natural complex is rare among medicinal plants, which is why the healing properties of St. John's wort are so extensive.

• Anti-inflammatory. The main effect of the medicinal plant is provided by tannins. In this capacity, decoctions and infusions are used both internally and externally. The hyperoside contained in the plant activates the production of the enzyme lipoxygenase. This substance is involved in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes - cells involved in suppressing the inflammatory process and allergic reactions.
• Antimicrobial. The antibiotic hyperforin has an antibacterial effect. It is the main active component of the antimicrobial and wound-healing agent “Novoimanin”, used for the treatment of infected wounds and abscesses, therapy of the upper respiratory tract during acute inflammatory processes. Several years ago, scientists discovered another property of hyperforin. The substance has an antitumor effect and, as such, is promising for science and the pharmacological industry.
• Antiviral. Provided by a number of active substances in the composition of St. John's wort. Proven to be effective against several viruses, including avian influenza and AIDS. Activity occurs due to the presence of the substance hypericin. In 2005, its properties to inhibit a whole range of the most important enzymes in the human body, which have antiviral and antitumor activity, were experimentally proven.
• Antidepressant. St. John's wort is included in the cohort of herbal antidepressants, the benefits of which are assessed by official medicine. Over the past years, at least thirty studies have been conducted, which involved almost five and a half thousand people suffering from mild to moderate depression. Treatment with St. John's wort for depression provided no less noticeable effect than using standard synthetic antidepressants. At the same time, the number of side effects turned out to be less. In particular, in patients with hypertension and coronary heart disease, which are often observed in depressive states, a positive effect of therapy on the cardiovascular system was noted. Other trials have confirmed the herbal remedy's effectiveness in treating anxiety and self-reported disorders.
• Therapeutic. The general healing effect that the herbal preparation exerts in the body is noted in a number of ways. Therefore, the question of what St. John's wort treats should be considered comprehensively. It has a slight sedative effect and stops bleeding. In patients with epilepsy, it reduces the likelihood of developing a seizure. The substances quercetin, kaempferol and biapeginin work as neuroprotectors in coronary artery disease and support the heart. The herbal medicine reduces the intensity of colitis and reduces the manifestations of irritable bowel syndrome. The extract stimulates the immune system and reduces the manifestations of menopausal conditions.

The latest research has confirmed that taking St. John's wort in tablets reduces the need for nicotine. This allows us to consider it as an important component of tobacco addiction treatment.

The substance hypericin is not preserved when the plant is harvested. It is found only in fresh St. John's wort juice. It has been established that hypericin has a photosensitizing effect, which can be used in radiation therapy of tumor diseases. When introduced into the body, the substance selectively accumulates in cancer cells, which become obvious targets for exposure to rays.

Application of the herb St. John's wort

In folk medicine, St. John's wort is used extremely widely. It is used to treat acute and chronic diseases of an inflammatory, pathological nature.

Decoction for the stomach

Traditionally used for the stomach, as a remedy for colitis. The decoction helps in the treatment of acute and chronic gastroenterocolitis and has a healing effect in the presence of ulcers.

Preparation

1. Place ten grams of herb (heaped tablespoon) in an enamel container.
2. Pour two hundred milliliters of boiling water.
3. Simmer over low heat for ten minutes.

The product should be taken thirty minutes before meals. Dosage - one third of a glass three times a day.

Tea for liver diseases

For liver diseases, bile flow disorders, and chronic diarrhea, it is recommended to brew tea from St. John's wort. The drink has an astringent, bitter taste.

Preparation

1. Place a tablespoon of dried herb in a cup.
2. Fill with boiling water with a volume of two hundred milliliters.
3. Leave to sit for ten to fifteen minutes.

You should drink the tea chilled half an hour before meals. Take a quarter glass up to four times a day.

Antiseptic infusion

St. John's wort tincture has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The substances it contains are especially active against staphylococci, including those resistant to penicillin. It is used for external treatment of infected, poorly healing wounds, ulcers, and burn surfaces. Used for rinsing in dentistry for gingivitis and stomatitis. In gynecology, it is used as an anti-inflammatory agent for vaginitis and colpitis.

Preparation

1. Place three tablespoons of raw materials in a glass container.
2. Leave covered for two hours.
3. Strain.

An antiseptic infusion is used to wipe the affected surfaces of the skin, treat the mucous membranes and the oral cavity. To treat the vagina, douching is performed. The infusion is used in cosmetology as a remedy for acne, blackheads, and oily skin. To combat inflammation, wipe the skin with tampons soaked in a medicinal product twice a day.

Cough infusion

The product has an anti-inflammatory effect and is recommended for bronchitis, tracheitis, and inflammatory processes in other parts of the respiratory system.

Preparation

1. Place a tablespoon of herb into a cup.
2. Pour boiling water with a volume of two hundred and fifty milliliters.
3. Leave to brew and strain.

Alcohol tincture

It is not prepared at home; it is produced industrially. The pharmaceutical industry extracts St. John's wort extract from coarsely ground herbs, which is fixed with 70% alcohol in a ratio of one to ten. Use internally and externally.

Oral treatments help combat unpleasant odor and strengthen gums. To do this, you need to rinse your mouth with a solution of thirty drops of alcohol tincture per one hundred milliliters of warm water.

An alcohol tincture taken internally is prescribed for cystitis, enterocolitis and cholelithiasis. Drink thirty drops diluted in water thirty minutes before meals three times a day.

St. John's wort oil

A delicate form of a medicinal product for healing wounds, large burn surfaces, and various skin lesions.

Preparation

1. Pour one part of the flowers without stems into the container.
2. Fill with one part of alcohol (a liter jar requires two hundred and fifty milliliters of alcohol with a strength of forty percent).
3. Pour in two parts of sunflower oil (half a liter of oil is needed per liter of product).
4. Leave to brew for three days in a dark place.
5. Pour into a saucepan and simmer over low heat until the alcohol and water have completely evaporated.
6. Strain while hot.

St. John's wort oil has wound healing and antiseptic properties. Softens the skin and stimulates its regeneration. Can be used on hair as a means of stimulating growth. Oil your scalp three times a week. After an hour, the product should be rinsed with warm water and rinsed with shampoo.

The drug "Novoimanin"

It is an extract of St. John's wort in the form of a reddish-yellow oily mass. Smells like honey. It has antibacterial activity and is therefore used to treat infectious diseases. For sinusitis, it is used to treat the sinuses in the form of a ten percent solution; it is prepared at the rate of one part of the drug to ten parts of distilled water.

Contraindications

When using all medicinal forms of the plant, one should take into account the contraindications of St. John's wort. “The herb is rarely used in its pure form,” notes herbalist Andrei Varenikov. “You can appreciate all its wonderful properties in the form of combined fees.”

The famous herbalist Mikhail Nosal shared the same opinion. His book “Medicinal Plants and Methods of Their Use among the People” contains recipes for more than ten anti-inflammatory herbs, in which, along with St. John’s wort, chamomile, bearberry, oregano, elderberry and other herbs are used. “If you don’t have a large amount of herbs on hand, you can combine St. John’s wort with sandy immortelle,” recommends Mikhail Andreevich. “This collection has an anti-inflammatory effect and is good for the liver.”

When used externally, the product has no contraindications and can be used for a long time. Internal use requires caution. It is noted that with prolonged use, the plant increases blood pressure and stimulates the constriction of blood vessels.

According to the observation of herbalists, the culture provokes the production of male hormones in the body. In women, this can lead to menstrual irregularities, facial hair growth, and increased skin oiliness. St. John's wort for men is dangerous for the development of secondary impotence, which is characterized by premature ejaculation. With prolonged use, overexcitation, fatigue, and anxiety are observed.

Despite the fact that the medicinal properties of the herb St. John's wort are well described in the medical literature, science continues to study this healing plant. Its potential as an antiviral agent and an auxiliary element of antitumor therapy has been proven. People use the culture widely and often. The greatest positive effect is achieved in the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the skin and internal organs. In its pure form, the herbal medicine should be taken with caution, in short courses. In the form of medicinal preparations, the drug is recommended for the treatment of diseases of the liver, kidneys, respiratory tract, and stomach.

St. John's wort, St. John's wort husband. Hypericum perforatum plant, hare's blood, blood, Svyatoyansk potion, healthy herb. | St. John's wort, grass plant, Hypericum quadrangulum. | Hyssopus officinalis hyssop | Menyanthes trifoliata, trefoil, trefoil,... ... Dahl's Explanatory Dictionary

St. John's wort- perforated. St. John's wort, a genus of herbs and subshrubs (St. John's wort family). Over 300 species, mainly in the temperate and subtropical zones of both hemispheres, as well as in the mountains of the tropics. They grow in coniferous and mixed forests, in glades and... ... Illustrated Encyclopedic Dictionary

Hunter Dictionary of Russian synonyms. St. John's wort noun, number of synonyms: 16 vodka (162) hypericum ... Synonym dictionary

St. John's wort, a genus of herbs and subshrubs (St. John's wort family). Over 300 species, mainly in the temperate and subtropical zones of both hemispheres, as well as in the mountains of the tropics. They grow in coniferous and mixed forests, in clearings and clearings. St. John's wort... ... Modern encyclopedia

A genus of herbs and shrubs of the St. John's wort family. Over 300 species, mainly in temperate and subtropical zones. St. John's wort is a medicinal plant (astringent and antimicrobial effect). Many types are decorative. 2 species are protected... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

- (Hypericum), a genus of plants of the family. Clusiaceae (or St. John's wort). Herbs or shrubs with leaves usually equipped with punctate glands. Flowers are solitary or in semi-umbrellas, collected in corymbose or paniculate inflorescences, b. h. yellow, with a pentad... ... Biological encyclopedic dictionary

St. John's wort- ST. John's wort, I, m. The one who often fights with the so-called. "persons of southern nationality." From the beast; joking contamination with common food “St. John’s wort” (Possible influence of the title of F. Cooper’s novel) ... Dictionary of Russian argot

A genus of meadow and forest herbs or subshrubs, usually with yellow flowers. St. John's wort herb contains up to 0.5% essential oil, vitamin C, carotene and other substances. Used as components in the composition of a bouquet of various spices, herbs,... ... Culinary dictionary

Ushakov's Explanatory Dictionary

1. St. John's wort1, St. John's wort, male. (book outdated). Animal hunter. 2. St. John's wort2, St. John's wort, husband. (bot.). The name of a special type of plant, meadow and forest perennial grasses. Ushakov's explanatory dictionary. D.N. Ushakov. 1935 1940 … Ushakov's Explanatory Dictionary

Books

• St. John's Wort, Cooper James Fenimore. The novel "St. John's Wort" is the first book in a series by the wonderful American writer Fenimore Cooper, dedicated to the adventures of the hunter Nathaniel Bumpo, nicknamed St. John's Wort. Among the heroes of the novel is an Indian...
• St. John's Wort, Cooper J.F.. The novel "St. John's Wort" is the first book in a series by the wonderful American writer Fenimore Cooper, dedicated to the adventures of the hunter Nathaniel Bumpo, nicknamed St. John's Wort. Among the heroes of the novel is an Indian...

We will share useful information on how to use St. John's wort, basic collection rules and what diseases and disorders can be cured with its help.

The content of the article:

St. John's wort is a perennial with a wide root system. The size reaches up to 90 cm, the stem is thin and straight. The leaves are oval-shaped, small, elongated. The flower is yellow-golden in color and forms a dense inflorescence. The fruit is a capsule with seeds. Grows in fields, meadows, forests and valleys. Blooms throughout the summer.
St. John's wort treats a lot of diseases: cystitis, colds, nervous and digestive systems, ulcers, coughs, stress. The herb is used not only in medicine, but also in magic for rituals. Young girls squeezed a flower in their hand to find out about the real feelings of their loved one. If the liquid that came out was pink, then the feeling was mutual, and if it was transparent, then the guy was indifferent.

Knowledgeable housewives used St. John's wort as a talisman. Fresh weed was pushed over the threshold of the front door. Our grandmothers also said that when a baby is tormented by bad dreams, he needs to put this herb under his pillow. She will calm the baby and he will enjoy sleep.

Even in ancient times, they said that St. John's wort helps against all ailments. The healing plant is brewed, and a fragrant and healthy tea is obtained. It is drunk for both medicinal and preventive purposes. After all, the flower is rich in carotene, choline, saponin, ascorbic and nicotinic acid, essential oil and other substances.

Grass collection

This plant can be found anywhere (in a field, on a lawn, in a valley, near a river). Flowers with leaves are used for medicinal purposes. Harvesting occurs when flowering occurs. The collected plant is dried in a semi-dark place (under a canopy, attic). Store the finished raw materials in a paper or hermetically sealed bag.

Perennial grass is harvested when it is in full bloom. The inflorescence is cut off almost at the very root, because the entire crop can be used in treatment. It is folded into a bundle, tied and dried. It is not recommended that the bunches be exposed to direct sunlight, so you need to choose a darkened room with access to air for drying.

Composition of medicinal St. John's wort

St. John's wort herb contains many useful components, including tannins. St. John's wort is an antiviral, anti-inflammatory and wound healing agent. So, let's try to figure out what is included in the miracle herb:

1. Essential oil used for capillary diseases.
2. Myrcene - reduces the risk of E. coli.
3. Geraniol - has a calming effect, prevents infections and acute respiratory infections from developing.
4. Cineol - helps relieve tension and fatigue.
5. Hypericin - destroys old cells and forms new ones. Thus, it rejuvenates the body.
6. Azulene - heals wounds.
7. Saponin - has a laxative and diuretic effect.
8. Coumarins - prevent the formation of blood clots.
9. Alkaloids - suppress depression, negative emotional outburst.
10. Hyperoside - relieves inflammation and swelling.

St. John's wort, due to its composition, is a unique and healing plant. Prevents the possibility of malignant formations and strengthens capillaries. Due to its beneficial composition, St. John's wort is used both for the treatment of many diseases and for their prevention.

Medicinal properties of St. John's wort

St. John's wort removes bile from the body. If you suddenly have worms, do not panic and do not buy expensive medications. Use St. John's wort decoction, because it has a regenerating effect. This infusion treats flu, rheumatism, headaches, hemorrhoids, bladder and kidney disease. Scientists have proven that St. John's wort can restore a damaged nervous system. Now we list its main properties:

• reduces temperature;
• acts as a diuretic;
• has antiseptic, antipyretic, analgesic effects;
• treats the gallbladder;
• dilates blood vessels;
• has a viscous property (due to its content);
• has a rejuvenating, preventive, strengthening effect;
• relieves pain from spasms due to inflammation of internal organs, blood clots;
• relieves fatigue, depression, irritability;
• fights insomnia;
• boosts the immune system;
• stops bleeding when cut;
• St. John's wort oil is used for burns, promotes rapid tissue formation, and smoothes the scar.

Each of us gets injured in everyday life, either cutting a finger, getting a burn or getting a deep scratch. Such wounds may leave a mark after healing. To avoid any noticeable scars on the skin, use herbal oil.
A wonderful herb, respected and valuable for medicinal purposes. Due to its miraculous effect on the body, it is used in both folk and traditional medicine. Recently, medical professionals have studied the plant and proven that it treats depression. St. John's wort has a positive effect on nerve endings and does not cause a negative allergic reaction.

The use of St. John's wort

Now let's talk about using St. John's wort at home and for medical purposes. How to properly prepare various tinctures, decoctions, and oils from it. St. John's wort preparations are used for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, inflammation of the mouth, throat, and stomatitis. Home remedies also help with the following disorders:

1. Relieves headaches.
2. In case of acute respiratory infections, it lowers the temperature.
3. It is suggested to drink during ulcerative processes.
4. The infusion is used for colitis, diarrhea, and digestive system disorders.
5. Treats inflammation of the female organs, cystitis.
6. Herbal tea is used for boils and abscesses.
7. It is a good prevention of liver diseases.
8. Used for colds, hemorrhoids, bronchitis, sore throat.
9. Eliminates insomnia, bedwetting.
10. Stops bleeding.
11. Tones blood vessels.

Medicinal forms of St. John's wort

1. Herb tea. You can add other herbs to the inflorescence (mint, rosehip, thyme, linden). The ingredients must be poured with boiling water, allowed to brew, strain and take. You can add ginger, honey, and cinnamon to your taste. This drink can be drunk not only for colds, but also for their prevention, as this remedy perfectly improves immunity. It saturates our body with various beneficial substances, tones, soothes, and supplies vitamins.
2. St. John's wort decoction. Chop the cut leaves, place in a vessel, and boil for about 20 minutes. Strain it and drink half a glass before meals. This remedy improves the functioning of the intestines and other organs. When a boil appears, apply a lotion on it. They also gargle for sore throats and gum disease to eliminate bad breath.
3. Alcoholic infusion. The collection is poured with vodka and left for a week in a dark place. Used for bruises, cuts, small wounds.
4. St. John's wort oil. Fresh flowers are poured with a glass of purified oil (linseed, olive). Then they hide it in a dark room for 10 days. Occasionally the mash needs to be shaken. At the end of the infusion period, the liquid is used for skin damage, burns, and as a douche for hemorrhoids.
5. Healing infusion. The grass is placed in a vessel and filled with boiled water. After 15 min. you can drink it. A very effective remedy for cystitis and headaches.
6. St. John's wort ointment. St. John's wort leaves are finely chopped and mixed with pork lard. The mixture becomes thick and should be stored in a glass container in a cool place. It is used similarly to oil for scratches and cuts of the upper layer of skin.
7. St. John's wort herb treats the respiratory system. Dried leaves are poured into 0.5 liters. boiling water, boil for 5 minutes, and breathe in the steam, wrapped up. After this procedure, bronchitis and cough quickly disappear. If you have a sore throat, gargle with the prepared decoction.

What diseases does St. John's wort treat?

St. John's wort will help with the following disorders:

• St. John's wort tea for colds. When a cold occurs, you need to pour boiling water over the grass. It is recommended to add linden, raspberries, lemon and honey to it. This tea should be drunk throughout the day. The disease will go away in a couple of days, without the use of antibiotics. They also do inhalation and rinsing with this drink.
• St. John's wort for stomach problems. Prepare a decoction and take 3 times a day. When an ulcer or gastritis is present, you need to drink half a glass three times a day before meals.
• For hemorrhoids, do enemas from herbal oil and wipe it. Take a warm bath from the infusion. And as the results show, it really cures it painlessly.
• Treatment of cystitis. The inflorescence relieves spasmodic attacks. Prepare the infusion as always: put the dry herb in boiling water and boil for approximately 10–15 minutes. The cooled broth is drunk in two sips before each meal.
• Oral problems can be cured by St. John's wort. Rinse the mouth with a pre-prepared decoction. It kills germs, relieves inflammation, and eliminates bad breath.

• allergic reaction to the plant;
• during lactation and breastfeeding;
• take as needed, long-term use may cause harm (cause vomiting, bitterness, nausea);
• prohibited for high blood pressure;
• strictly adhere to the dosage, do not increase it;
• Take breaks between courses of treatment and consult a doctor;
• St. John's wort should not be taken with alcohol and coffee;
• an overdose of St. John's wort can cause vomiting and nausea;
• Pregnant women should not drink the infusion;
• long-term use of the herb will reduce appetite, constipation may occur;
• Liver cirrhosis cannot be treated with this herb;
• people with heart disease should take the drink with caution;
• Constant use of the drug can lead to impaired sexual desire.

Let us remember that the bush affects both female and male organs. To a large extent it affects male sex hormones. Can lead to increased excitability and even impotence. Therefore, St. John's wort must be used carefully. It is suggested to add sage and clover to St. John's wort. Because they produce estrogen, which is important for men to produce the hormone. The effect of the herb can have a detrimental effect on the sex life of both men and women. That is why you should consult a doctor before use. And under no circumstances should you abuse this plant, so as not to harm yourself.

As you can see, St. John's wort is a valuable medicinal plant. Copes with many diseases due to its life-giving properties. It is used in both traditional and scientific medicine. Do not forget that before starting a course of treatment, it is best to get a doctor’s recommendation and read the instructions for use.

Learn more about the beneficial properties of St. John's wort in this video:

The soul will sing and the body will become healthier if you learn how to brew tea from St. John's wort. A healing decoction strengthens the immune system and nervous system, helps rejuvenate the body and normalize hormonal levels. “Good blood” will sparkle in your veins if you take St. John’s wort correctly, wisely using its medicinal properties for comprehensive health improvement.

Tea with St. John's wort is a herbal elixir of health. In Rus', it was believed that the plant was able to ward off evil spirits, since it grew from a torn feather and drops of the Firebird’s blood. Medieval healers prescribed a decoction of St. John's wort inflorescences to patients suffering from a severe form of melancholy - mental suffering caused by physiological reasons became less intense. And steppe healers used the fresh juice of the plant to treat purulent wounds and made disinfecting compresses from the leaves.

Fans of herbal teas know that St. John's wort forms the basis of many medicinal infusions, which allows them to take the plant without having to study its properties in detail. However, herbal teas not only bring benefits, but can also have contraindications. You should not drink a drink that you are not 100% sure is harmless.

The benefits of St. John's wort drinks

You can safely take St. John's wort in moderate doses in the absence of individual intolerance. Only a fresh decoction is used - the correct infusion should have a slightly noticeable bitterness, which will completely cover the taste of other herbs in the collection. In its “pure form,” the drink is taken in small portions, diluted with water to avoid excessive strength.

The medicinal benefits of the plant are determined by its impressive composition:

• essential oils (hypericin), carotene and tannins;
• flavonoids (natural antioxidant, antimicrobial agent);
• acids (ascorbic, nicotinic, isovaleric);
• vitamins (groups C, P and PP), tocopherols (vitamin E) and choline (vitamin B4);
• ceryl alcohol and alkaloids.

St. John's wort tea relieves a lot of problems if taken in moderate doses for about two to three weeks. When treating chronic diseases, after a week's break and agreement with the doctor, the course is repeated. Sensitive people prone to allergies should reduce the daily dose to 1 cup of weak brew.

What does St. John's wort save from?

• Natural antidepressant. The benefits of St. John's wort are especially noticeable in cases of neuroses, chronic fatigue or depressive disorders. You cannot find a more positive tea; it is usually taken in crisis situations. The dosage is increased to 5 cups per day, reducing the course to a week. The medicine prevents mental exhaustion and calms the nervous system.
• Hormonal control. Young girls can take St. John's wort a week before the expected start of menstruation - the plant reduces pain, reduces the intensity of hormonal fluctuations, and helps normalize the cycle. St. John's wort is no less useful for women experiencing menopause. Slavic sorceresses called it “bloodberry” or “red grass,” advising taking a balanced (in equal proportions) herbal decoction of lemon balm, St. John’s wort and hops.
• Mental activity. School-age children and men engaged in intellectual work should take St. John's wort in the morning (diluted in half with lemon balm). The magical properties of tea will improve concentration, relieve mental stress, and help you think clearly. If you sweeten the drink with honey, it will be a pleasure to drink!
• Normalization of pressure. For men and women holding responsible positions, St. John's wort helps cope with headaches caused by stress (by normalizing intracranial pressure). If dizziness or migraines occur due to overwork, it is worth drinking healthy decoctions of St. John's wort, chamomile, etc. during stressful periods.
• First aid for digestion. Tangible benefits from taking St. John's wort are observed for gastritis, ulcers and high acidity. Being a mild antioxidant, the plant improves the functioning of the entire digestive system, removes toxins from the body and reduces pain symptoms. Its medicinal properties make it possible to use it in diets - the plant improves metabolic processes, which promotes weight loss.
• Colds. The antibacterial properties of St. John's wort make it possible to successfully use it to treat otitis, rhinitis, cough and sore throat. There will be no trace of a cold if you use herbal decoctions (externally and internally) at the first symptoms. The benefits of St. John's wort tea for children of high school age are invaluable - the decoctions perfectly strengthen the immune system and make it easier to survive flu epidemics.
• Dental problems. In dentistry, St. John's wort tea is taken as a supportive agent in the treatment of stomatitis and periodontitis. A strong brew of the plant is used to rinse the mouth to relieve inflammation and reduce pain.

The benefits of such tea are obvious, but you need to take it correctly - keeping a moderate dosage, wisely combining it with other medicinal plants.

Harm of drinks based on St. John's wort

Harm from St. John's wort can be caused by individual intolerance, overdose, or improper brewing. All contraindications should be taken into account in order to get the desired benefit from St. John's wort and not harm.

• Overdose. There is never too much ordinary tea, but medicinal tinctures require extremely moderate consumption. Harm from the herb can occur with long-term use, so limit the treatment course to: a week when getting rid of mild health problems, two to three weeks for chronic or acute forms of diseases.
• For children. You need to be extremely careful if the decoction is prepared for children, whose bodies react more sharply to medicinal plants. The dosage of a herbal tea recipe for young children should be 2-3 times less than for adults. And it is best, given the contraindications, to refuse to take it completely or take it only after consultation with a pediatrician. As a rule, the packaging of herbal tea from St. John's wort indicates a restriction for children under 12 years of age.
• Stale drink. St. John's wort tea can be very harmful if you drink a stale, over-brewed drink. When infused, the plant “gives” excess amounts of tannins, acids and dyes to the water, which can cause allergic shock, serious intestinal upset, or damage the liver and kidneys.

St. John's wort can only be drunk fresh. After standing idle for more than a day, the drink is not suitable for internal use. However, you can use the “overstayed” liquid to wipe problem skin or create compresses for wounds.

• Increased sensitivity. St. John's wort tea causes unusual harm to people with fair skin - the plant increases sensitivity to solar radiation. Are you going on a beach holiday or planning a long day of work at the dacha? Avoid teas with St. John's wort to avoid causing significant harm to the skin in the form of sunburn, the formation of age spots or allergic rashes.
• Decreased potency. Long-term use of St. John's wort causes certain inconvenience to men - there is a temporary decrease in potency and a decrease in sexual desire. The harm is temporary and completely disappears within a week or a week and a half after stopping use.
• Pregnancy and lactation. St. John's wort can cause harm to the developing fetus because it has a regulatory effect on metabolic and hormonal processes. When breastfeeding, a child receives substances contained in St. John's wort through mother's milk, which can cause an allergic reaction or poisoning.
• Hypertension. St. John's wort impresses with its tonic properties, which are 5-6 times stronger than coffee. That is why doctors recommend that hypertensive patients stop using it - people with high blood pressure will only get harm from invigorating tea.
• Incompatibility with medications. Medical contraindications cannot be ignored when taking St. John's wort. The plant can be harmful in combination with certain medications - when combining herbal medicine with traditional treatment, a doctor's approval is required.

Are you afraid of the contraindications? Find your own recipe for St. John's wort tea - create your own health elixir!

Recipes for herbal teas with St. John's wort

The beneficial properties of the plant impressed you, but the potential harm did not scare you away? Don’t rush to experiment - find out how to brew St. John’s wort correctly.

St. John's wort drinks have pronounced medicinal properties, so it is necessary to carefully select recipes, giving preference to the calmest options.

Basic St. John's wort tea recipe

The standard brewing method involves using dried flowers or leaves of the plant. A pharmacy collection is suitable, although if possible it is better to collect and dry it yourself.

1. Rinse a porcelain or ceramic teapot with boiling water.
2. Brew St. John's wort, following the ratio of 1:40 - a teaspoon of medicinal herb (about 5 g) per glass of boiling water (about 200 ml). One serving of aromatic medicinal tea is ready.
3. Let the drink stand for 5-10 minutes, and then strain through a strainer (gauze cloth) to prevent excessive concentration of the medicinal plant.

Healthy tea drinking can turn into harm if you ignore the body's reactions. Is the tea too bitter? Don’t force yourself – dilute with water and sweeten with honey/sugar.

Herbal teas for body and soul

Not all people like the pure taste of St. John's wort, so the plant is often included in various herbal preparations. Do not rush to conjure herbs - drink pure St. John's wort tea for about 4-5 days to make sure there are no allergic reactions. And then start experimenting and adding other herbs to the drink.

Anti-cold tea

The combination of sweet rosehip and bitter St. John's wort creates an excellent anti-cold tea. The drink is created based on a 2:1 ratio, i.e. For 200 ml of rose hips, you need to prepare 100 ml of St. John's wort. Pour a teaspoon of dried St. John's wort into the teapot, then add 2 tablespoons of dried rose hips and pour 300-350 ml of boiling water over the mixture. Wait about half an hour and pour the resulting tea into another container.

photo: depositphotos.com/rezkrr, rezkrr, Kassandra2, Kassandra2

Used for a very long time. It was used by the father of modern medicine, Hippocrates. Dioscorides and Pliny in the 1st century AD prescribed St. John's wort for sciatica, burns, fever, and infused with wine for poisonous snake bites. But the medieval herbalist of the 11th century, Hildegard of Bingen, did not favor it, pointing only to properties harmful to livestock.

The Latin name of the genus consists of two parts - hyper- above, above, above, and eikon- image, image, icon. This is explained by the Greek and Roman traditions of keeping a bunch of St. John's wort in the house in order to drive away evil spirits, and later by the medieval tradition of placing a bunch of grass on top of the icon to ward off the forces of evil. It was even used to remove damage.

Among the ancient Germans, St. John's wort was dedicated to the sun god Baldus. In many European countries and the United States, St. John's wort is called St. John's herb - in honor of John the Baptist (in fact, this is how both the English and German names are literally translated), on the eve of Christmas, when St. John's wort blooms (June 24 for Catholics). There are many legends associated with this, the essence of which basically boils down to the fact that the red juice from the flowers is reminiscent of the shed blood of John the Baptist and his martyrdom.

In the Middle Ages, St. John's wort was a highly revered medicinal plant. Konrad von Megenburg wrote that it strengthens the heart and liver, cleanses the kidneys, heals wounds and removes poisons. The unforgettable Philip Aurelius Theophrastus Bombastus von Hohenheim, or in short Paracelsus, in one of his books pointed out the plant’s ability to “drive out evil spirits, terrible thoughts that lead people to despair,” and modern scientists prescribe St. John’s wort against depression. Medieval doctors called St. John's wort "Fuga Daemonum" - from lat. fuga- “flight”, “pursuit”, that is, the flight of demons or the pursuit of demons.

St. John's wort, collected on June 24, was considered especially effective in medieval Europe, and it was used for rheumatism, gout and toothache.

St. John's wort earned its Russian name due to its phototoxic properties. When large quantities are eaten by livestock on pasture, animals with white fur experience skin redness and even burns. In Russia, St. John's wort, in addition to the official one, has many local folk names, including: hare, hare tree, hare's blood, hare's blood, ringing grass, vertebrae, St. John's wort, healthy grass, St. Ivan's potion, St. Ivan's herb, krovaviets, krovavnik, good blood grass, red grass, sevenfold blood, wild chicken, thornweed.

What is the healing power of St. John's wort?

St. John's wort herb contains essential oil (up to 1.25%), sterols (3-sitosterol), triterpene saponins, alkaloids (0.3%), nitrogen-containing compounds (choline), vitamins (C, E, carotene), phenolcarboxylic acids and their derivatives, coumarins, tannins (3-12%), including catechins, 2-5% flavonoids (quercetin, rutin, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, hyperin), anthocyanins (5.7%), anthraquinones (dye hypericin, pseudohypericin, protopseudogypericin, hypericodehydrodianthrone, frangulaemodinanthrol), phloroglucinol derivatives (hyperforin, the content of which is maximum in seed pods), leukoatocyanidins, higher aliphatic hydrocarbons (octacosane, triacontane), higher aliphatic alcohols, citric and malonic acids.

pharmachologic effect

The range of applications of St. John's wort is extremely wide. Meticulous German specialists tried to figure out which of the substances contained in it works and how. And after lengthy research, certain results were obtained, although far from complete.

Hypericin, which is a fluorescent red dye, is responsible for photosensitizing, antimicrobial (even active against staphylococcus), antiviral effects, antidepressant (affects the content of serotonin and melatonin, the lack of which in brain cells can lead to depressive conditions).

Quercetin and quercitrin are monoamine reductase inhibitors, thereby exhibiting an antidepressant effect.

Tannins are “responsible” for the astringent effect.

Procyanidins and amentoflavones - antioxidants , eliminate dyspeptic symptoms in the gastrointestinal tract, have a vasodilating, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing effect. Hyperforin has a wound-healing effect on burns and wounds, an anthelmintic, antibacterial effect, regulates the level of neurotransmitters or neurotransmitters (substances that ensure the transmission of nerve impulses in brain tissue), a potential remedy for the treatment of cancer.

Flavonoids probably have a sedative, diuretic and choleretic effect. Xanthones have antidepressant, antibacterial, antiviral, diuretic effects, improve heart function.

In general, all these biologically active substances collected in St. John's wort have a beneficial effect on a wide variety of diseases.

When is St. John's wort used?

Given the wide variety of active ingredients, St. John's wort is effective for a wide variety of diseases. This is truly from 99 diseases.

Water infusions and decoctions of St. John's wort are prescribed for gastritis, acute and chronic enteritis and colitis, and bacterial intestinal diseases, and an alcohol tincture is effective for dysbacteriosis. Taking St. John's wort oil also gives good results for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

St. John's wort is prescribed for biliary dyskinesia, cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, hepatitis, and flatulence. Decoctions and infusions are used as a diuretic for inflammatory kidney diseases, urolithiasis, decreased filtration capacity of the kidneys, and fluid retention in the body. In folk medicine it is used for urinary incontinence, cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis.

St. John's wort tincture (1:5 in 40% alcohol) is used for purulent otitis in the form of turundas soaked in the tincture. A diluted 1 teaspoon of tincture in a glass of boiled water is used as a rinse for stomatitis, periodontal disease, gingivitis, chronic tonsillitis and sore throats. For a runny nose and sinusitis, instilling St. John's wort oil into the nose is effective.

For burns, the use of St. John's wort oil promotes rapid skin regeneration and prevents the appearance of scars on it. This plant has a general strengthening and tonic effect. St. John's wort can be used either alone or in combination with other plants.

St. John's wort and impotence

Recently, the literature has often begun to indicate that St. John's wort causes impotence in men and facial hair growth in women. However, this information has not been confirmed by any scientific data. On the contrary, there is evidence of the positive effect of St. John's wort on impotence. This plant stimulates the activity of the endocrine glands, and therefore the production of sex hormones, including androgens, increases. However, St. John's wort itself does not have an androgenic effect. That is, it cannot provoke facial hair growth in women (as, for example, with long-term use, licorice provokes gynecomastia in men).

St. John's wort and depression

The antidepressant property of St. John's wort began to be mentioned in Russian literature only in the last decade, and, for example, in Germany it is the most common mild antidepressant, which is prescribed for mild and moderate depression, seasonal emotional disorders, insomnia, and anxiety. Studies have shown that St. John's wort preparations combine the antidepressant effects of several pharmacological groups of antidepressants.

On the one hand, it increases the content of serotonin in brain cells. A lack of this substance in nerve cells can cause depression. Selective serotonin uptake inhibitors, one of the commonly used groups of antidepressants, act similarly. On the other hand, as studies have shown, it is possible that St. John's wort “works” as an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase. The enzyme monoamine oxidase destroys neurotransmitters - serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, the lack of which in brain cells again leads to depression. Evidence from other studies suggests that St. John's wort increases dopamine levels in the blood and acts as a tricyclic antidepressant. With all this, St. John's wort does not have the side effects of all the above groups of pharmacological drugs.

In Germany, dry extract of St. John's wort, standardized for hypericin content, is widely used. The duration of treatment for depression, anxiety and insomnia is 4-6 weeks.

How to cook it correctly

This is a whole science. It all depends on what therapeutic effect is desired. When preparing aqueous infusions, not all active ingredients pass into the solution. Hypericin, for example, almost all remains in the raw material, so you shouldn’t expect a strong antimicrobial effect from St. John’s wort tea, but almost all of the tannins pass into the aqueous infusion. In addition, as studies have shown, the antidepressant effect of water infusions and decoctions is also minimally expressed. But alcohol tinctures give maximum results. Therefore, let us dwell in more detail on the features of the preparation and use of the main dosage forms of St. John's wort.

Water infusion St. John's wort is prepared at the rate of 1 tablespoon of crushed raw materials per 1 glass of boiling water. Infuse for 2 hours, filter and take 1/3 cup 3 times a day for rheumatism and gallbladder diseases. Due to the content of catechins, there is a certain vascular strengthening effect.

Decoction prepared in the same ratio as the infusion, but boiled for 10 minutes, cooled and filtered. Taken orally as an astringent for diarrhea and colitis. For rinsing with stomatitis and gingivitis.

Herbal tincture prepared with 50 or 40% alcohol from dry raw materials and 96% alcohol from fresh raw materials. Alcohol dissolves hypericin well, one of the main active ingredients of St. John's wort. 50 g of crushed dry St. John's wort herb is poured into 0.5 liters of vodka or 50% alcohol. Infuse for 3-4 weeks and take 1 teaspoon 3-4 times a day half an hour before meals.

St. John's wort oil, or oil extract, gives excellent results in local therapy. It is prepared from fresh raw materials. Fresh St. John's wort flowers are placed tightly in a glass jar, poured with refined sunflower or olive oil so that it covers the raw material with a layer of 1-2 cm, cover with a lid and expose to bright sunlight (required condition!). Infuse the oil for 4 weeks, stirring daily, until it acquires the color of ripe cherries. Then it is squeezed through gauze, filtered through thick cloth and left alone for a day. When settling, the contents of the jar are divided into three layers: at the very bottom a thin, light and unpleasant-smelling layer of yeast is formed, above it is a small layer of water and on top is an oil extract of St. John's wort. The top layer is poured into a dark glass bottle. Store in the refrigerator for no more than a year.

It is used to treat burns, microenemas, dropped into the nose for a runny nose, drunk for stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastritis and food poisoning.

Attempts to obtain oil from dry raw materials were unsuccessful. In addition, as recent studies have shown, when fresh raw materials are infused in bright light, complex photochemical and enzymatic processes occur, as a result of which hyperforin is formed, which has such a strong wound-healing and antimicrobial effect. It is almost not present in herbs and other dosage forms.

St. John's wort oil is used for injuries, myositis, myalgia, and wounds. It improves local blood circulation, and hyperforin has antimicrobial and antiviral effects, including against multi-antibiotic-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus. St. John's wort oil exhibits antiviral and analgesic effects for herpes zoster.

Ready-made drugs

St. John's wort tincture(Tinctura hyperici). Prepared in 40% alcohol in a ratio of 1:5. Used as an astringent and anti-inflammatory agent in dental practice. 40-50 drops are prescribed orally 3-4 times a day. For rinsing - 30-40 drops per half glass of water.

Contraindications: St. John's wort naphthodianthrones can, in case of overdose, exhibit a phototoxic effect and increase the skin's reaction to UV irradiation, and therefore people with sensitive skin should protect their skin from direct sunlight when taking St. John's wort and its preparations. In some cases, side effects may include digestive problems, allergic skin reactions and a feeling of fatigue. Long-term use may result in a feeling of bitterness in the mouth.

It is not recommended to use St. John's wort simultaneously with coumarin-type anticoagulants, cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant), digoxin, indinavir and other proteinase inhibitors in the treatment of HIV. The combined use of St. John's wort with these drugs may reduce their effectiveness. St. John's wort induces the production of enzymes, especially Cytochrome P450, that degrade drugs, and reduces the effectiveness of treatment.

Nutritional value of St. John's wort

St. John's wort is used in the food and alcoholic beverage industries. It is added as a seasoning to fish dishes and consumed as a substitute for tea. This plant is widely used for the preparation of many bitters ("St. John's wort", "Erofeich"), almost all balms, it is included in the recipe of the wines "Bouquet of Moldova", "Morning Dew", etc.

To relieve stress, improve well-being after hard physical and mental work, as well as improve appetite and digestion, you can prepare a food tincture with vodka (see St. John's wort tincture). Take 50 ml before meals.

Read about medicinal types of St. John's wort, rules for growing and collecting raw materials on the page