St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort has been used to treat depression since the 1500's and now medical science is confirming what herbalists and naturopaths have known all along. A recent study published in the Cochrane Library confirms that St. John's Wort is as effective as standard antidepressants and has fewer side effects.
The hyperecium extracted from the flowers of the St. John's Wort can be found in capsules in health food stores and drug stores almost any where.

In Germany St. John's Wort is prescribed more often than any standard antidepressants such as Zoloft and Prozac.

St. John's Wort flowers can be infused in oil and applied topically to treat burns, bruises, wounds and myalgic pain. Scientific studies have shown that it is anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and vulnerary (encourages new cell production).

St. John's Wort is a very invasive plant and not suitable for domestic propogation. It can be found in meadows, wastelands and along ditch banks.

If you suffer from depression, or are taking medication for depression you may want to discuss St. John's Wort with your doctor. You can print out the report from the Cochrane Library to take with you.