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.

Contents 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 comes out is pink color, then the feeling was mutual, and if 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 the result is aromatic and healthy tea. 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). IN medicinal purposes flowers with leaves are used. 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

The herb St. John's wort contains a lot useful components, among which there are 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, headache, 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;
• increases 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 workers studied the plant and proved 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 medical purposes. How to cook it correctly different tinctures, decoctions, oil. St. John's wort preparations are used for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, inflammatory process oral cavity, throat, 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 the inflammatory process 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. Herbal 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, and 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 remind you that the bush affects both women 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:

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 natural environment 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 rich green, as the growing season becomes 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. General period St. John's wort blooms 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 region. 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 next year new shoots will develop. 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. Flavonoids 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 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. For recent years At least thirty studies were 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, coronary heart disease, which are often observed with depressive states, noted positive impact therapy for cardiovascular system. Other tests have confirmed the effectiveness herbal remedy in the treatment of anxiety and self-forming 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 disease, 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 important component tobacco addiction therapy.

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 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 ulcerative formations.

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, 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, recommended for bronchitis, tracheitis, inflammatory processes 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

Delicate form remedy for healing wounds, large burn surfaces, various skin lesions.

Preparation

1. Pour one part of the flowers without stems into the container.
2. Fill with one part of alcohol (per 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 for treatment 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.

Even though medicinal properties St. John's wort herbs 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 is a perennial herbaceous plant with a two- or tetrahedral stem, small entire leaves and single yellow flowers. About fifty species of the plant are known. On the territory of the Russian Federation, two of them are mainly found - ordinary (perforated) and tetrahedral. You can find grass in forest clearings, forest edges, and along roads. Flowering occurs from June to August. The collection of medicinal plants is carried out after June 24. The healing properties of the herb “St. John’s wort” have been used since ancient times in the treatment of many diseases. Components obtained from raw materials are included in official and folk medicines. The article presents detailed information about what kind of plant St. John's wort is, medicinal properties and contraindications for women and men, methods of use are described.

Interesting to know! St. John's wort gets its name from the Kazakh word "jaroboy", which translates as "healer of wounds". Some of the toxic effects on animals that the herb has are not related to its name.

The herb contains many substances that can positively affect human health.

The medicinal qualities of “St. John’s wort” are due to the presence in it of:

• hyperecin;
• pseudohypericin;
• hyperforin;
• adhyperforin;
• essential oils;
• flavonoids;
• isovaleric acid;
• other organic acids;
• choline;
• vitamins;
• ceryl alcohol.

Most often, St. John's wort is brewed as a sedative. A sedative effect on the body develops due to hyperecin and pseudohyperecin. These substances affect dopamine structures, which ensures their psychoactive effect.

It is worth noting that the antidepressant effect of St. John's wort preparations is similar to that of mid-level chemical sedatives. The herb is not suitable for combating severe depression. However, it copes well with pathologies of minor and moderate severity.

In addition to its sedative effect, St. John's wort is used as an antiseptic, antispasmodic, analgesic and general tonic. In combination with cassia holly it is used as a laxative.

The herb has long been known as “well done blood”. In the Middle Ages, St. John's wort was used for local treatment of purulent-inflammatory processes and bruised wounds, which often occurred after fist fights.

What does St. John's wort treat?

Angina

For the treatment of sore throat and other inflammatory diseases of the throat, St. John's wort is recommended to be used in combination with propolis. To prepare the dosage form, pour 200 ml of boiling water over a large spoon of the dried and powdered plant and leave it in a water bath for 15 minutes. After this, the broth is cooled, filtered and 20 drops of 10% alcoholic propolis extract are added to it.

The resulting composition is used topically for gargling. You should take a little broth into your mouth, throw back your head and exhale air so that the liquid gurgles in your mouth. The procedure is performed several times for 20-30 seconds. At the same time, the astringent and anti-inflammatory components of St. John's wort actively destroy the bacteria present at the site of inflammation. Rinsing is repeated 2-3 times a day until the symptoms of the disease completely disappear.

Anemia

Some folk reference books contain information that St. John's wort can be used to treat anemia. Here it should be understood that the medicinal properties of the plant appear only if anemia was caused by chronic bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. At the same time, treatment with St. John's wort allows you to speed up the healing of ulcers and cracks, which will eliminate the possibility of blood loss and lead to recovery.

Hypochromic anemia associated with insufficient intake of iron ions into the body cannot be treated with St. John's wort. The fact is that the plant contains tannins - astringent components. When the decoction is taken orally, they bind microelements (including iron), preventing it from being absorbed into the blood.

To treat anemia caused by chronic blood loss, St. John's wort is used in the form of the above-described decoction, from which propolis is excluded. It is recommended to take the product ½ cup 3 times a day, half an hour before meals. A doctor should monitor the healing process of ulcerative defects.

Sore throat

Another effective recipe based on St. John's wort, which allows you to treat sore throats, is inhalation. To prepare the solution, pour 2 tablespoons of chopped herbs into 0.5 liters of water and boil for 7-10 minutes. After this, breathe over the container with the broth, covering your head with a towel.

Note: the method is identical to “breathing over potatoes,” which is known to almost every person who suffered from rhinitis or bronchitis in childhood.

When using inhalations, the bactericidal components of the plant penetrate deeper into the respiratory tract. Thus, St. John's wort allows not only to destroy pathogenic bacteria in the inflammatory focus, but also to prevent the inclusion of deeper structures of the respiratory system in the pathological process.

Varicose veins

For varicose veins, St. John's wort is used in the form of tea. It is not possible to completely cure the disease with herbs alone. However, the plant has proven itself with positive side How helper method. Regular consumption of a drink with the addition of “valiant herb” leads to an increase in vascular tone, improved blood flow and a reduced risk of thrombosis.

A better effect can be achieved if you add herbs with a similar effect to the tea: horse chestnut, sweet clover, raspberry. The components are mixed in equal proportions, poured with boiling water (2 tablespoons of raw materials per 0.5 liter of water) and left for 15-20 minutes. After this, the product is considered ready for consumption. Shouldn't drink medicinal tea more than 3-4 times a day.

Gastritis and ulcer

For scarring of gastric ulcers and gastritis, take St. John's wort oil. Fresh flowers are used to prepare it. 20 grams of St. John's wort inflorescences ground into a paste are mixed with 200 milliliters of vegetable oil. The resulting composition is infused in a glass vessel for 21 days. After this, the mixture is filtered through several layers of gauze.

You should consume one tablespoon of oil after each meal. This allows you to protect the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract from the negative effects of solid foods. In addition, St. John's wort oil accelerates the healing of ulcerative defects and reduces the intensity of inflammation. The duration of treatment is not limited. The medicine can be taken until complete recovery.

Hypotension, impotence

To increase blood pressure, you can use an alcohol tincture of St. John's wort. You will need:

• chopped St. John's wort herb;
• food grade ethyl alcohol (70 or 96%).

The drug component is mixed and infused for 2 weeks.

To prepare the solution, add 30 drops of the drug to 100 ml of water, stirring thoroughly. The frequency of administration is three to four times a day. It is better if the treatment is carried out before meals. Alcohol formulations are contraindicated for children. For patients childhood water decoctions or infusions are used.

St. John's wort is used as an aphrodisiac if the problem is caused by fatigue, overwork, or prolonged mental stress. A classic decoction of St. John's wort, taken 1-1.5 hours before sexual intercourse, significantly increases libido and improves potency. To improve taste qualities and the pharmacological action of the decoction, it is possible to add components such as honey, mint, a tablespoon of cognac.

Dizziness

You can get rid of dizziness by mixing immortelle, St. John's wort, chamomile, and birch buds in equal proportions. The resulting mixture in the amount of one tablespoon is poured with half a liter of boiling water, leaving for 20 minutes. After cooling, filter the infusion and drink 2 times a day, morning and evening. To improve the taste of the drug, you can add a spoonful of honey.

It should be remembered that this method is only suitable for people whose dizziness is caused by fatigue or psycho-emotional stress. For serious diseases of the brain and its blood vessels, St. John's wort as an independent method of treatment is useless.

Stroke, depression, sleepwalking

Treatment of the consequences of a stroke is often carried out using herbal infusions.

The following mixture of herbs is considered the most popular:

• 20 grams Rhodiola rosea(root);
• 20 grams of rose hips (fruit);
• 15 grams of chopped nettle;
• 10 grams of St. John's wort.

The components are mixed together. 10 grams of the composition are poured into 250 ml of boiling water. Infuse the product for an hour. Take 2-3 times a day. The serving size is 100 ml. Course duration is 2-3 months.

For depression and sleepwalking, St. John's wort helps to quickly achieve improvement mental state. The herb can be consumed in the form of a decoction or infusion, the recipes are given above. For better effect, mint and valerian are added to St. John's wort in equal proportions. It is necessary to consume 200-250 ml of solution before bedtime.

In classical medicine, St. John's wort is also widely used, the medicinal properties and contraindications for men, women and children have been carefully studied for a long time. The herb extract is included in such products as “Doppelgerts neurotic”, “Novoimanin”, “Negrustin”, etc. These medications help improve sleep, cope with nervous disorders, improve psycho-emotional state.

Cough

To treat cough, St. John's wort is used in the form of a water-based infusion. To prepare it, pour one or two tablespoons of dried, crushed herbs into a glass of boiling water and let it brew. After a while (when the infusion has cooled), it is filtered and taken. The frequency of use of the product is three to four doses per day. Treatment duration is 1 week.

How is St. John's wort useful for coughs? The plant contains many bactericidal substances. After entering the stomach, they are absorbed into the blood and begin to circulate in the body, including reaching the source of inflammation. The plant stimulates immune processes, which also leads to faster recovery.

Oil for migraines and colds

For migraines, as well as for the treatment of rhinitis and bronchitis, essential oil containing St. John's wort can be used. To prepare it, you should take basil, cloves, valerian, anise, St. John's wort, ginger, cardamom, lavender, mint, lovage and tansy. All components are mixed in equal quantities. The resulting mixture is poured with vegetable oil and left for 25-30 days. For infusion, it is better to use a dry, dark room. For 1 liter of oil there should be 4 full tablespoons of vegetable raw materials.

The prepared essential oil is consumed by inhalation. As a rule, it is stored in small, tightly closed containers that are convenient to carry. When a migraine attack occurs, open the container, bring it to your nose and deeply inhale the aroma of the oil several times.

Mastopathy

As an aid to the treatment of mastopathy, herbalists offer the following recipe:

• motherwort;
• St. John's wort;
• caraway;
• fennel;
• valerian.

The components are mixed in equal quantities and prepared according to the infusion recipe (pour 2 tablespoons of raw materials with a glass of boiling water, cover with a lid and let cool). It is necessary to take the medicine half a glass per day during the main course of therapy. The infusion reduces the intensity of inflammation, fights infection, and soothes.

Urolithiasis

St. John's wort promotes the destruction and self-removal of stones from the kidneys and bladder. The plant is used in the form of an infusion. Concentration medicinal substance here is slightly lower than in previous cases. Only one tablespoon of raw material is added to a glass of boiling water.

The medication should be taken one third of a glass 3 times a day, regardless of meals. Such therapy allows you to speed up the removal of stones, prevent the development of infectious complications, and stimulate the healing of the membranes of the ureters and renal tubules damaged by the sharp edges of the stones.

Neuralgia

Relief of attacks of neuralgia is carried out using a decoction of a mixture of herbs:

• elder;
• thyme;
• linden;
• rue;
• astragalus;
• St. John's wort.

The components are crushed and mixed together in equal proportions. After this, add 0.5 liters of water and boil for 10 minutes. The finished decoction can be drunk immediately after cooling and filtering. Drink 70-100 ml 3 times a day before meals.

Bad breath

It is no secret that bad breath often occurs due to the active proliferation of bacteria in the oral cavity. St. John's wort, having a bactericidal effect, is capable of destroying a colony pathogenic microorganisms and cure the disease. To eliminate the unpleasant odor, use a decoction or infusion of herbs. Apply it by rinsing. You should not swallow the broth after the procedure. Repeat 3 to 10 times a day.

Cold

At colds St. John's wort decoction is taken orally, 1 glass 3 times a day. The course of treatment corresponds to the time of illness. The active components contained in the herb stimulate the immune system and have general strengthening effect, affect pathogens. Taking a herbal decoction can reduce the time required for recovery by 2-3 days, with an average duration of illness of 7 days.

Prevention of liver function

To prevent liver function, St. John's wort infusion is taken after meals, 3 times a day, half a glass. The first dose of the day is recommended to be taken on an empty stomach. When used in this way, St. John's wort produces a hepatoprotective effect, accelerates the regeneration of hepatocytes (liver cells), and improves blood flow in the liver vessels.

Psoriasis

To treat psoriasis, a decoction of St. John's wort is taken orally and also applied to areas of pathology. You should take 100 ml of the drink orally three times a day, after meals. The medicine is applied locally using a gauze pad or clean rag. The components contained in the plant reduce vascular proliferation, relieve inflammation, and prevent the development of bacterial complications.

Radiculitis

You can get rid of pain from radiculitis if you use an old folk recipe. The crushed St. John's wort herb should be mixed with vegetable oil in a 1:1 ratio. Add a couple of drops of turpentine to the resulting mixture and rub the painful areas. It is recommended to rub every day before going to bed.

Period failure

During menstruation, St. John's wort is used to reduce bleeding and correct the psycho-emotional state of a woman. Extraction useful substances produced by infusing or boiling the plant. You can take the medicine according to the standard regimen for most diseases (orally, 3 times a day, 150-200 ml per dose). The course of treatment is 1 week.

Stomatitis, bleeding gums

For stomatitis and bleeding gums, you should rinse your mouth with a decoction of St. John's wort. The manipulation is carried out several times a day until the situation improves. The main action here is produced by tannins and bactericidal substances contained in the plant. The former form a protective film on the mucous membrane, the latter destroy pathogenic microflora.

Stress

Long-term preventative use of St. John's wort is recommended for people who regularly experience stress. Prevent the consequences of constant mental stress You can if you drink 200-250 ml of water infusion of the herb daily. It is recommended to do this before bed. St. John's wort promotes calm, improves sleep, allows you to relax and have a good rest before starting a new day.

Pulmonary tuberculosis

For tuberculosis, alcohol tincture of St. John's wort is used. To prepare it, 100 grams of crushed herbs are immersed in 0.5 liters of 70% alcohol and infused for a week. All this time the composition should be in a dry, cool room. You need to take the product 3 times a day, 1-2 teaspoons. The tincture can be diluted in water. The plant has no effect on Mycobacterium tuberculosis. His pharmacological action in this case it is to stimulate the immune system.

Strengthening the immune system

To strengthen the immune system, St. John's wort can be taken according to any of the recipes described above (infusion, decoction, tincture). It is better if the product is without additional inclusions. The dosage regimen remains the same (three times a day, one glass). The duration of the strengthening course is one month.

Cholecystitis

For cholecystitis, St. John's wort acts as an antispasmodic and choleretic agent. Its use allows you to quickly improve the patient’s condition during a chronic course of the disease. To stimulate the outflow of bile, a decoction of St. John's wort is mixed with other choleretic plants in equal quantities. Dosage regimen: 3 times a day, on an empty stomach, 1 glass.

Cervical erosion

When treating cervical erosion, St. John's wort is used topically, in the form of douching with a decoction of herbs. In addition, St. John's wort oil can be used, applied to a tampon and inserted deep into the vagina. Local exposure to a medicinal plant accelerates regenerative processes and prevents bacterial infection.

Contraindications

Despite its completely natural origin, St. John's wort has certain contraindications for use.

The herb should not be used for:

• breastfeeding;
• hypertension;
• taking some medicines(antibiotics, oral contraceptives, sedatives).

As it became clear from the above, St. John's wort is a remedy for the treatment of many diseases. However, the plant is not a panacea. Using the herb as an independent method of therapy is permissible only when sluggish forms pathology. Any deterioration in condition that occurs after taking a folk remedy requires consultation with a doctor.

Herbaceous plants have been used in medicine and cosmetology for a long time. They contain essential oils, anticoagulants and other substances beneficial to the human body. One of these herbs is St. John's wort. The plant is found in all regions of Russia.

What is St. John's wort

The perennial grows near the edges of coniferous forests, in sunny meadows, along the edges of fields and along roads. Botanists have identified 560 species and 9 genera of St. John's wort. The plant belongs to the dillenid subclass, tea order, St. John's wort family. On the territory of Russia, St. John's wort (common), tetrahedral, and calyx are often found. Peculiarities:

• The leaves are simple, arranged oppositely, with dark or transparent dots.
• The flowers are actinomorphic, solitary or collected in pyramidal, corymbose inflorescences.
• Raw materials are collected from June to August. The plant is cut to 30–35 cm, tied into bunches and dried indoors or under a canopy. Raw materials should not be exposed to sunlight. After the leaves and flowers have dried, they are crushed and stored in a glass jar. You can store raw materials in bags made of linen, cotton or other natural thick fabric. Shelf life – 2 years.

The benefits and harms of St. John's wort

The plant belongs to the class of low toxicity, so it is used to treat adults and children. Benefits of St. John's wort:

• helps get rid of hypertension;
• is a natural aphrodisiac;
• restores nerve fibers;
• normalizes melatonin production;
• reduces inflammation.

Any medicine is beneficial to health only in certain proportions. If they are exceeded, serious problems will arise. side effects. Harm of St. John's wort:

• greatly increases blood pressure;
• in high concentrations causes emotional lability or increased excitability;
• accelerates the removal of useful substances from the body;
• if the cyclic intake is not observed, it disrupts the functioning of the hormonal system.

Medicinal properties

The substances that make up the plant have a beneficial effect on human health. Medicinal properties of St. John's wort:

Chemical composition

The plant contains vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and flavone compounds. Chemical composition herbs:

• tannins;
• flavonoids;
• myrcene;
• retinol;
• tocopherol;
• nicotinic and ascorbic acids;
• cineole;
• alkaloids;
• geraniol;
• pinenes;
• carotene;
• phytoncides;
• routine;
• saponins;
• hyperoside;
• coumarin;
• quercetin, isoquercetin;
• azulene;
• hypericin.

What does St. John's wort help with?

The plant is suitable for the treatment of many diseases. St. John's wort helps with the following conditions:

• severe pain syndrome;
• inflammation of external tissues and internal organs (pustular diseases, sinusitis, infections genitourinary system, abscess, hemorrhoids);
• insomnia, migraines, anxiety;
• excessive oily skin;
• inflammation of the gallbladder, gastrointestinal problems caused by viruses and chronic diseases.

Medicinal use

The plant is used in traditional and folk medicine, allopathy. St. John's wort is used to treat:

• inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity (tonsillitis, stomatitis, pharyngitis);
• depression, insomnia, psychosis;
• acute and chronic diseases digestive tract and intestines (bloating, gastritis, hepatitis, diarrhea, heartburn);
• diseases of the spine and joints (rheumatism, arthritis).

The dosage depends on the disease. Women consume up to 400 mg of dry product daily. For men, the dosage increases to 600–800 mg. St. John's wort is given to children from 12 years of age after consultation with a doctor. If the child is younger, then this herb is not prescribed. Children are given no more than 150 mg of dry product daily.

In traditional medicine

The beneficial properties of St. John's wort are used in pharmacology. Antidepressants and sedatives are produced from this plant. In allopathy, the herb is used to strengthen the immune system and normalize heart function. Examples of medicines:

• Life 900.
• Gelarium Hypericum.
• Neuroplant.
• Devaccinated.
• Negrustin.
• Novoimanin.

The use of St. John's wort in folk medicine

The herb is used in the form of decoctions, lotions, external mixtures, tinctures, and ointments. A mixture of several will give a greater effect. medicinal herbs(mint, chamomile, elderberry, etc.). Healers treat with St. John's wort:

• gastritis;
• inflammation of the gallbladder;
• cholelithiasis;
• different types arrhythmias;
• alcoholism.

In cosmetology

The plant tones the skin cells. St. John's wort for skin is used for the following problems:

• Acne. For acne, it is useful to treat your face with St. John's wort lotion or herbal decoction daily. After 7-10 days, pimples and acne will disappear.
• Dandruff and baldness. One third of a glass of infusion is consumed 10 minutes before meals, 2 times a day. The same product is used to rinse hair.
• Peeling of the skin. An infusion is used to soften the skin. It is applied every 2 days to flaky areas.
• Withering skin, wrinkles. Red or pink clay is diluted with the infusion of the plant to the consistency of sour cream. The resulting mask is applied to the face for 15–20 minutes. The product copes with shallow expression wrinkles and tones the skin.

Folk recipes

Healers prepare various preparations based on St. John's wort. Traditional recipes:

• St. John's wort tea. Place 1 teaspoon of herb in a teapot and pour 250 ml of boiling water. If desired, add honey, linden flowers, a handful of strawberries or raspberries. The resulting tea is used to restore immunity and treat incipient colds.
• Decoction of the plant. Place 1.5 tablespoons of dry herb in an enamel pan and then pour in a glass hot water. The container with the brewed plant is heated for 20–30 minutes in a water bath. The broth cannot be brought to a boil, otherwise some of the beneficial substances will be destroyed. The product is used immediately.
• Infusion. 2 tablespoons of dried or fresh herbs are poured with a glass of boiling water. The liquid is infused for 3–4 hours in a dark place, and then consumed 15–20 ml 3 times a day.
• St. John's wort tincture (extract). The herb is infused with vodka or alcohol in a ratio of 1 to 10 or 1 to 7. The product is infused for 3 days in a dark place. The alcohol tincture is diluted with 50 ml of water before use.
• St. John's wort oil. The flowers of the plant are infused with olive, peach, almond or jojoba oil in a ratio of 1 to 2 for 3 weeks. The finished product is used for compresses.

Treatment of diseases with St. John's wort

IN correct proportions St. John's wort will cope with microbes, strengthen the immune system, and relieve inflammation. The herb is used to treat:

• colds;
• gynecological diseases;
• impotence;
• vitiligo;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT);
• genitourinary system.

For gargling

The plant has a pronounced antimicrobial effect, effective against streptococci, staphylococci and other microorganisms. To eliminate pain or bad breath, use a decoction or infusion of the herb. In case of illness, rinsing is repeated 3 to 10 times a day. The product should not be swallowed. At unpleasant smell Use the infusion from the mouth after brushing your teeth.

For a cold

For cough and fever, doctors recommend using an infusion of water. To prepare it, pour 2 tablespoons of dried crushed herbs with a glass of boiling water and let it brew. When the liquid has cooled, it is filtered and taken 3-4 times a day. Duration of treatment – ​​1 week. The infusion is suitable for rinsing the sinuses for sinusitis.

St. John's wort for impotence

A decoction of the plant is taken 1–1.5 hours before sexual intercourse. To improve the effect, mint or honey is added to it. Traditional healers believe that St. John's wort and potency in men are strongly connected. If you constantly use products with this plant, the natural production of testosterone will decrease.

For vitiligo

With this disease, some areas of the skin lose pigmentation. In some patients, parts of the body become completely white. Vitiligo is treated with ointment and infusion based on St. John's wort:

• For the ointment, fresh flowers of the plant are collected, compacted tightly into a glass jar, and then filled with cold-pressed oil. The mixture is left in the sun for 2 weeks, and then the procedure is repeated again 5 times. White spots are treated with the finished thick ointment.
• The infusion is taken 3 times a day for 8 weeks.

St. John's wort in gynecology

After cauterization of cervical erosion, the damaged mucous membrane needs additional care. Douching with St. John's wort is carried out 2-3 times a day for 7-10 days. For procedures, use an infusion at room temperature. Another remedy is cotton-gauze swabs with St. John's wort oil. They are administered for 2–3 hours during the day or overnight.

St. John's wort will help with oncology. For the treatment of cancer of the uterus and appendages, the following mixture is prepared:

1. 200 g of garlic are steamed and crushed until mushy.
2. Add 200 g of chopped hazel kernels and 300 g of ground walnut kernels to the garlic. The mixture is thoroughly mixed.
3. Add 25 g of licorice root, 25 g of St. John's wort flowers, 25 g of powdered ginger, 50 g of ground dill to the mixture. All ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
4. The resulting homogeneous mass is added to 1 kg of honey. Mix thoroughly.
5. Use the finished product 1 tablespoon 2-3 times a day after meals.

During menopause

Many women experience hot flashes during menopause. To get rid of them, it is recommended to make herbal tea. To do this you will need:

• St. John's wort – 25g;
• lemon balm leaves – 15g;
• cuff leaves – 15g;
• yarrow flowers – 15g;
• hawthorn leaves and flowers – 5g;
• elderberry flowers – 5g;
• cornflower flowers -3g;
• calendula flowers – 2g.

1 tablespoon of the mixture is poured with 1 liter of boiling water. Drink herbal tea 2 – 3 times a day before meals. For depression, traditional healers recommend using alcohol tincture. The product is taken before meals, 20 drops 3-4 times a day.

St. John's wort as a sedative

Hypericin is a red substance widely used in the treatment of depression, anxiety and others. mental illness. This compound, along with hyperforin, is found in St. John's wort. Sedatives with this herb were first released in 1998 in Germany. At home, prepare the tincture according to the recipe above. The course of treatment is 1 month. The tincture is taken 10–12 drops 3 times a day before meals.

For stomach diseases

St. John's wort helps well against gastritis, diarrhea, cholecystitis, provided it is taken regularly. Features of the treatment of stomach diseases:

• In case of exacerbation of gastritis, the infusion will help. Drink 15 ml before each meal.
• Diarrhea is treated with a mixture of St. John's wort, mint, thyme, linden, and rose hips. The listed herbs are mixed together in equal proportions. Brew 2 tablespoons of the resulting mixture with 500 ml of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes, and then filter. Drink at least 200 ml of decoction daily.
• For cholecystitis, the benefits of St. John's wort tea are immediately noticeable. The drug is an antispasmodic and choleretic agent. Drink it on an empty stomach 3 times a day.
• At chronic diseases liver drink infusion 3 times/day, 125 ml. The course of therapy is 1.5 months. It is repeated 2 times a year. The plant accelerates the regeneration of liver cells, improves vascular blood flow, and relieves spasms.

St. John's wort for liver and kidneys

For cholelithiasis and urolithiasis, use St. John's wort infusion. The concentration of medicinal substances here is lower, but in this form St. John's wort is more useful against stones. The infusion is consumed 100 ml 3 times a day for a month. The product stimulates the healing of damaged diuretic and choleretic channels.

Treatment of cystitis

A tablespoon of St. John's wort is poured into a glass of boiling water, covered with a towel, and left for 20 minutes. The resulting broth is filtered and taken 1/4 cup 3 times a day. Use the product until the symptoms of the disease disappear completely.

Contraindications and side effects

Healing properties St. John's wort do not always appear. People suffering from hay fever should use the herb with caution. Such patients are first given a sensitivity test. If there is no reaction after contact with a small amount of the plant, treatment can be continued. Contraindications:

• Photosensitivity (sensitivity to ultraviolet light). The plant increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight.
• St. John's wort should not be consumed while breastfeeding or during pregnancy. The grass makes milk bitter and contains substances that can negatively affect the development of the baby. External agents are allowed to be used during gestation and lactation.
• Hypertension. Weed greatly increases blood pressure.
• Recovery period after transplantation. Substances from the herb provoke rejection of transplanted tissues and organs.
• Taking contraceptives. The effectiveness of contraceptives decreases.
• Taking antidepressants. It is especially dangerous to combine St. John's wort tablets in patients with manic syndrome. The plant causes an exacerbation of this disease.
• Taking Indinavir, anticoagulants, heart medications. The herb reduces the blood levels of the listed drugs by almost 2 times. This is due to the fact that when using St. John's wort, the liver and kidneys are stimulated, i.e., almost all medications are eliminated from the body faster.

Side effects:

• loss of coordination;
• dizziness;
• nausea, vomiting;
• sudden mood swings;
• decreased iron levels in the blood;
• confusion;
• increased sensitivity to ultraviolet;
• constipation, diarrhea, flatulence.

This is a perennial herb from the St. John's wort family. Folk tradition knows the plant as: St. John's wort, bloodworm, Svetojanskoe potion, hare's blood. The Latin generic name for St. John's wort is Hypericum- has several interpretations. One version of the origin of the word is that St. John's wort was attributed magical property resist evil forces evil spirits, and explains the name as a fusion of two meanings: hyper(“above”) and eikon(“image”, “ghost”). " St. John's wort", in turn, is or distorted " jerembai", which means " wound healer"(as the medicinal herb was called by nomadic peoples) or is associated with the fact that certain substances in the composition of St. John's wort, when eaten by livestock during grazing, increased the sensitivity of animals to sunlight and provoked them to self-harm when trying to comb the affected areas.

Botanists know 458 species representing the genus St. John's wort, the most studied and widespread of which are the following:

1. 1 St. John's wort or St. John's wort– grows throughout Eurasia, in northern Africa, on the islands (Azores, Canary Islands), the plant has taken root in New Zealand, on the Japanese islands, in North America, Australia. One of the oldest and most popular medicinal plants, a productive honey plant. Used in the food and liquor industries and as a natural dye;
2. 2 St. John's wort– found in Asia, Africa, European countries. Used to create hedges, in combination with other plants. Common in landscaping;
3. 3 St. John's wort calyx– grows in Greece, Turkey and Bulgaria. Successfully adapted to cultivation on the Australian mainland and New Zealand. In European countries it is cultivated as an ornamental plant in the park and garden culture system;
4. 4 St. John's wort Kamchatka– distributed in Kamchatka, the Kuril Islands and Sakhalin. Also found on the Japanese islands of Honshu and Hokkaido. Has decorative value. The species has found application in the cooking of local peoples: the herb of the plant is used to make tea, the young shoots are eaten;
5. 5 St. John's wort– found in the southern European region, in Tunisia, Cyprus and Malta, Turkey, the north of the Sinai Peninsula, Israel and Jordan. The plant is popular in oriental medicine;
6. 6 St. John's wort drawn– the species’ habitat covers China, Mongolia, Korea, and the Asian region of Russia. The species has medicinal properties; the herb contains anthrachion, hypericin and tannins. Traditional healers use the plant in the treatment of headaches, dizziness, bleeding, neuralgic lesions, eclampsia, mastitis, and attacks of rheumatism;
7. 7 St. John's wort spotted– the species represents the flora of Europe and belongs to medicinal plants;
8. 8 St. John's wort– found in Europe and the Caucasus. It is protected in Lithuania and is listed in the Red Book in Belarus. The flowers of the plant are used to prepare medicinal raw materials;
9. 9 St. John's wort– grows in Greece, Turkey, Syria, and the Balkans. Grown as an ornamental crop;
10. 10 St. John's wort elongated– a plant with powerful medicinal potential, widely used in folk medicinal practice. Source of coloring matter in industry. Grows in northern Africa, Central Asia, Crimea, the Greek islands and Spain;
11. 11 St. John's wort– endemic to the Arabian region and the Mediterranean. In Israel, the species is listed in the Red Book. Has long been used folk healers Middle East;
12. 12 St. John's wort– grows in Central Asia, the Middle East, and Altai. Medicinal plant and natural dye.

St. John's wort (common) is a perennial plant, a herb with a height of 0.3 to 1 m. The rhizome is poorly developed and slightly branched. The stems, which grow annually, are dihedral, spreading upward into numerous branches. The leaf arrangement is opposite, the leaves are sessile, smooth, oval or elongated, covered with many translucent spots - “holes”. The flowers are bright, rich yellow, collected in corymbose panicles. Flowering period is summer. The fruit is a capsule with small seeds brown, begins to ripen with the beginning of autumn.

St. John's wort grows along field roads, in thickets and thickets, in clearings, in forest belts, on slopes, and meadows.

Growing conditions

Well-lit areas are suitable for planting. Before sowing, the soil is cleared of weeds and plowed, enriched with mineral and organic fertilizers (which makes it possible to increase the yield by an additional 20-30%). Peat compost and nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus fertilizers are recommended as top dressing.

Sowing the day before winter period carried out without preliminary stratification, maintaining a distance between rows of 0.45 m and at the rate of 30-40 g of seed material per 100 m2 of area. If St. John's wort is sown in the spring, the seeds are stratified by mixing with sand and keeping at low temperatures at least 60 days. After the emergence of seedlings, it is necessary to weed and loosen the row spacing. These procedures are repeated 3 or 4 more times per during the summer, in the first year of plant cultivation. In subsequent years, the area is cleared of dead stems and the soil is plowed using a rake.

St. John's wort herb is harvested at the flowering stage, before the unripe fruits appear. The grass is mowed or cut with sickles, separating the apical parts of the plant at a height of 0.3 m. Bare leafless parts cannot be collected. 30-45 days after the first mowing, the growing season is completely repeated and flowering begins again. The plant is mowed again. The yield of crops in the third year is significantly higher than that of plantations in the second year. The herb is dried in well-ventilated areas (or outdoors, provided there is no precipitation and in a shaded place), scattered in a thin layer and mixed systematically. St. John's wort can also be dried in bunches suspended in the shade. The readiness of the raw material is determined by the degree of fragility of the stems. Properly dried material has a weak but distinct balsamic aroma. Allowed storage period is up to 3 years.

During collection, insufficiently experienced herbalists confuse St. John's wort with gorse, a member of the legume family. This is a low shrub plant, leaves are linear or lanceolate, stems are glabrous or sparsely pubescent, yellow irregular flowers of the moth type are collected in long racemose inflorescences. The fruits are elongated beans with a slightly curved shape.

Power circuit

Bumblebees and bees collect pollen from St. John's wort flowers. Hover flies and beetles feed on St. John's wort pollen. The bright flowers of the plant also attract wasps and butterflies, whose goal is nectar, but St. John's wort flowers practically do not produce nectar. Caterpillars of butterfly species Strymon melinus feed on St. John's wort seeds, and caterpillars of butterflies of the species Nedra ramosula– foliage.

Useful properties of St. John's wort

Chemical composition and presence of nutrients

What exactly is used and in what form

The herb St. John's wort serves as the basis for the preparation of tinctures, decoctions, infusions, extracts prescribed for both internal use, and externally. St. John's wort is included in a variety of herbal preparations. Tea with St. John's wort is useful. The herb of the plant is also a source of imanin and a component of many ointments. St. John's wort is popular in homeopathy. St. John's wort oil is successfully used in the treatment of burns and wounds in the form of oil compresses.

Medicinal properties of St. John's wort

The herb St. John's wort (common) contains flavonoids (hyperoside, rutin, quercetin, quercitrin, isoquercitrin), volatile oils, which contain terpenes, sesquiterpenes (azulene), naphthodianthrones (hypericin, pseudohypericin, hyperin or hypericin, close to hematoporphyrin, sensitive to sunlight light; it is a kind of catalyst for certain intracellular reactions, a vital regulator. necessary processes, affects biochemical processes in organs affected by malignant tumors, increases the sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet rays), isovaleric acid esters (have a calming effect), tannins, bacteriostatic resinous substances, ceryl alcohol, nicotinic acid, antibiotic, carotene and ascorbic acid.

St. John's wort is used in the treatment of diseases of the digestive system. Preparations from St. John's wort reduce intestinal spasms, dilate blood vessels, improve the functioning of the gastric glands, stimulate blood circulation, relieve inflammation in the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, act as an astringent and bacteriostatic, and relieve spasms in the bile ducts.

St. John's wort is effective for biliary dyskinesia, bile stagnation, hepatitis, cholecystitis, prescribed in the initial stages of cholelithiasis, hypoacid gastritis (gastritis with low acidity), flatulence, acute and chronic colitis, intestinal disorders and hemorrhoids. At the initial stage kidney stone disease St. John's wort is used as a diuretic and is prescribed for reduced filtration capacity of the kidneys. St. John's wort tincture is used for helminthic infestations (enterobiasis, hymenolepiasis). Plant-based preparations strengthen capillaries and improve venous circulation. It is advisable to prescribe St. John's wort for disorders of peripheral circulation, with a tendency to stagnation in the bloodstream. The photosensitizing properties of the plant and the presence of hypericin among its components are used in the treatment of diseases such as vitiligo. St. John's wort is prescribed for disorders of the nervous system, enuresis in children, migraines and neurodystonia. The external use of St. John's wort is explained by its astringent, bacteriostatic and anti-inflammatory properties. St. John's wort oil is effective for burns, gingivitis, facial pityriasis, leg ulcers and wound healing. In dentistry, tincture or infusion of the herbal part of St. John's wort is used for rinsing the mouth, for the treatment of inflamed gums, and for stomatitis. St. John's wort is used in gynecology as herbal infusion for douching for vaginal inflammation, and St. John's wort oil has a positive effect in the treatment of cervical erosion.

Traditional medicine also uses St. John's wort in the treatment of polyarthritis, sciatica, gout, pulmonary tuberculosis, mastopathy, and boils.

The use of St. John's wort in official medicine

• St. John's wort herb;
• St. John's wort tincture;
• imanin, an antibacterial drug in powder form. A one percent solution of imanin is used to treat infected wounds, skin cracks, burns, mastitis, boils, phlegmon, acute rhinitis, laryngitis, sinusitis, purulent otitis. Imanin has no effect on fungal infections;
• novoimanin, one percent alcohol solution-antibiotic. Use a 0.1% solution in distilled water, isotonic sodium chloride solution, 0.25% anesthesin solution or 10% glucose solution for dental diseases, for inhalation - for abscess pneumonia, pneumothorax; for purulent otitis and sinusitis, use a 0.01-0.1% solution in distilled water. Prepare the solution immediately before the procedure;
• peflavite, prescribed for capillary toxicosis, acute glomerulonephritis, atherosclerosis.

Use of St. John's wort in folk medicine

• For hypoacid gastritis (low acidity), as well as to increase the flow of bile and diuresis, St. John's wort is used as a steam: a tablespoon of chopped herb is poured into 200 ml of boiling water and allowed to brew for 10 minutes. Drink 100 ml in small sips 1-2 times a day after meals.
• St. John's wort tea is useful for intestinal disorders: Infuse a tablespoon of St. John's wort flowers and leaves in a glass of boiling water for 10 minutes. Drink 2 glasses after meals throughout the day. The course of treatment is long. Increasing the dose to 3-4 glasses per day is prescribed for chronic diarrhea.
• For liver diseases (with accompanying constipation), a tablespoon of a mixture of St. John's wort, cumin and buckthorn bark in a ratio of 2:3:2 is poured into 200 ml of water, boiled for about 10 minutes and drunk at least 5 glasses per day.
• For lower back pain and general weakness caused by heavy physical labor, a recipe is recommended: 2 tablespoons of St. John's wort flowers are ground with 4 tablespoons of softened fresh cow butter, salted to taste and one tablespoon of this mixture is stirred in 2 glasses of beer. Drink the medicine throughout the day.
• For mental stress, nervous exhaustion, and sleep disorders, a remedy is useful: prepare a steam from 200 ml of boiling water and one tablespoon of a mixture of St. John's wort, common yarrow and angelica officinalis root, which is drunk 30 minutes before bedtime. St. John's wort in this mixture strengthens and regenerates nerves, treats insomnia and neuroses. This is an excellent medicine for mental fatigue and functional exhaustion of the nervous system.
• St. John's wort helps with worms: prepare an infusion at the rate of 15 g of St. John's wort per 100 ml of boiling water. Take 90-150 ml three times daily for 3 days (children from one to seven years old), on the last day of administration they give a laxative salt, and this treatment is carried out in a cycle, in three stages, with intervals of 10 days.

Externally:

• St. John's wort oil is used to heal wounds from frostbite of the 2nd and 3rd degrees, for burns, and to lubricate cracked nipples.
• St. John's wort oil is used to make a balm that heals abrasions, cuts and is useful for pain in muscles and joints. To prepare the product you need: half a cup of St. John's wort oil extract, half a cup of ginger oil extract, 30 g of beeswax, a tablespoon of rosehip seed oil and oil solution vitamin E, 20 drops each of lavender and ginger essential oils. Mix oil extracts of St. John's wort and ginger, add beeswax. Heat the mixture of herbal oils and wax in a water bath until it is completely dissolved. Add vitamin E, rosehip seed oil, lavender and ginger essential oils to a homogeneous, heated mass. Stir quickly and thoroughly and pour the finished balm into jars until the wax begins to harden. Store the balm tightly closed, in a dry, dark and cool place. The shelf life of such a drug is from 2 to 3 years.
• To treat purulent wounds and rinse the mouth to strengthen the gums, steam is used: a handful of St. John's wort flowers are steamed in 0.5 liters of boiling water. A clean, disinfected cloth is soaked in cooled steam and applied to the wounds.
• St. John's wort for vitiligo: the affected areas are smeared with the juice of fresh St. John's wort and after a quarter of an hour, exposed to the sun's rays. The duration of the first insolation is no more than 30 minutes. During the period of such treatment, 30-50 drops of freshly squeezed St. John's wort juice (from leaves and flowers) are also taken orally 2-3 times a day, washed down with water. It is necessary to stay in the sun for short sessions with breaks. The course of such treatment for vitiligo is about 60 days, with a break of 3 days after every 3 weeks.

Use of St. John's wort in Eastern medicine

Avicenna recommended St. John's wort as an excellent remedy for healing wounds of various origins; practiced it as an analgesic for inflammation sciatic nerve, a diuretic and was used in the treatment of malignant ulcers.

In the recipes of traditional healers of Uzbekistan, St. John's wort is used as specific remedy in therapy oncological diseases liver and stomach.

The herb St. John's wort has long been used in Chinese traditional medicine.

St. John's wort in scientific research

One of the pioneers in herbal science, the British Nicholas Culpeper, a botanist and pharmacist, characterized St. John's wort as a “sunny”, “fiery” plant.

In his famous herbal book (“The Complete Herbal,” 1653), Culpeper wrote: St. John’s wort is “ effective plant used in the treatment of wounds. Drinking a decoction of wine heals internal bruises and pain. St. John's wort ointment treats blisters on the skin, promotes the resorption of tumors, tightens the edges of wounds and heals them. A decoction of the herb, flowers and seeds of St. John's wort in wine helps with vomiting, hemoptysis, treats those who have been bitten or stung by any poisonous creature, and has a diuretic property. Powder from St. John's wort seeds, dissolved in a small amount of broth, disperses bile... A warm decoction of leaves and seeds, taken on the eve of an attack of malaria, alleviates the course of the disease. St. John's wort seeds are recommended... for patients with epilepsy, paralysis and those who suffer from pain in the sacrum."

Modern research The medicinal properties of St. John's wort are thorough and continuously replenish the system of knowledge about medicinal herbs.

The importance of St. John's wort in medicine and its medicinal potential were studied by K. M. Klemov, E. Bartlow, J. Crawford and others.

Interaction of St. John's wort with certain medicines and possible negative consequences their simultaneous administration is the topic of scientific research by S. Soleimani, R. Bahramsoltani, R. Raimi.

A. Oliveira, C. Pinho, B. Sarmento and A. Diaz provided the results of an analysis of the neuroprotective effects of St. John's wort and its individual components.

A large-scale scientific work by P. Bongiorno and P. Lo Guidice is aimed at studying the effect of drugs based on St. John's wort in the treatment of depressive conditions.

The study of the neurotropic activity of modern dosage forms made from herbal raw materials St. John's wort is the topic of scientific work by V. Kurkin, A. Dubishchev, O. Pravdivtseva and L. Zimina.

The specifics of the extraction of the perforated active substance hypericin from the herb St. John's wort are highlighted in the study by Rudometova N., Nikiforova T., Kim I.

St. John's wort in cooking

St. John's wort herb and flowers in dried and fresh used as a seasoning for dishes (especially fish), for the preparation of various drinks, as a spice that gives food a slightly bitter, tart and balsamic note.

Beetroot and St. John's wort salad

To prepare the salad you will need: 4 small well-washed raw beets, 2 apples, juice of one lemon, freshly ground black pepper and coriander seeds, half a cup of finely chopped parsley, half a cup of St. John's wort flowers. Grate the peeled beets and apples. Place in a bowl, top up lemon juice. Grind and add black pepper and coriander. Sprinkle the salad with parsley and St. John's wort flowers.

Potatoes baked with St. John's wort

Ingredients needed: 8 medium-sized potatoes, 4 tablespoons softened butter, sea salt and pepper to taste, 2 crushed cloves of garlic, 2-4 teaspoons grated nutmeg, 200 ml cream, 200 ml milk, a cup of St. John's wort flowers , disassembled into petals and separated from the sepals.

Peel the potatoes and cut into thin slices. Grease a baking dish with oil, sprinkle with crushed garlic, lay out the potatoes, salt and pepper, sprinkle with grated nutmeg and St. John's wort petals, season the potato slices with the remaining oil. Whisk the milk and cream and pour the mixture over the potatoes. Bake at 180 degrees until the potatoes are cooked and golden brown, about one and a half hours.

Avocado stuffed with St. John's wort

Products you will need: 2 large ripe avocados, lemon juice, canned sardines (one jar), one small onion, thoroughly chopped, a cup of crushed St. John's wort flowers, peeled from sepals, salt and black pepper.

Cut the avocado in half, separate from the pit, carefully remove the pulp from each half and mash with a fork or puree in a blender. Generously sprinkle the pureed mixture with lemon juice, mix with sardines, finely chopped onions, ground until smooth, sea salt, pepper, and St. John's wort flowers. Fill the empty avocado halves with the resulting “minced meat”, sprinkle with lemon juice again and decorate the stuffed avocados with St. John’s wort flowers. Serve on lettuce leaves.

Use in cosmetology

The healing properties of St. John's wort are actively used to create professional cosmetic care products facial skin, body, hair, and in recipes home cosmetics. St. John's wort is included in creams, lotions, masks, shampoos and hair rinses. St. John's wort helps with problematic and oily skin, is used to strengthen hair, and in the comprehensive fight against dandruff. Most skin care cosmetics made from St. John's wort are based on oil, which can be prepared at home.

How to prepare St. John's wort oil? Infuse 20 g of fresh St. John's wort in sunflower oil (200 ml) for two weeks, then strain. St. John's wort oil works great in nourishing masks for hair, helps with dry scalp and hair loss.

Other uses

The drug " Novoimanin", created on the basis of St. John's wort, is used in agriculture to combat bacterial diseases affecting vegetable crops. “Novoimanin” is also used when tobacco plantations are affected by the so-called tobacco mosaic virus.

In industry, yellow, brown, golden and red dyes are extracted from the leaves and flowers of St. John's wort (sometimes from the whole plant).

In the Catholic tradition, St. John's wort is called the "herb John the Baptist", and according to one legend, the plant grew from drops of the blood of an executed saint that fell to the ground.

There is a belief: if on the night before the day of John the Baptist (June 24) a person hides a sprig of St. John's wort under his pillow, the saint who appeared to him in a dream will thank him with health and prosperity throughout the year.

Dangerous properties of St. John's wort and contraindications

It is important to remember that the combination of St. John's wort with certain medications can cause significant harm to health, since the simultaneous use of St. John's wort and a specific medicine entails disruptions in the absorption of certain medications.

St. John's wort reduces the body's sensitivity to the action of anticoagulants and thereby reduces the effectiveness of taking them. St. John's wort also reduces the effectiveness of oral contraceptives(cases of unplanned pregnancies have been recorded). The simultaneous use of St. John's wort with synthetic antidepressants and a number of other medications is unacceptable.

At individual intolerance components of the plant, a person may develop an acute allergic reaction and conditions accompanied by redness, allergic rashes, shortness of breath and swelling.

Long-term use of St. John's wort in excessive doses can cause bitterness in the mouth, constipation, not an improvement, but a decrease in appetite and a feeling of heaviness in the liver area. Patients suffering from hypertension, according to doctors, should take St. John's wort exclusively as part of herbal preparations, that is, in combination with other herbs that balance its effect on the body, since St. John's wort increases blood pressure.

The administration is not responsible for attempting to use any recipe, advice or diet, and also does not guarantee that the information provided will help and will not harm you personally. Be smart and always consult your appropriate physician!