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St.JOHN’S WORT - 貫葉連翹
Hypericum perforatum
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Disorders of the metabolism, oxygen deficiency in the blood, (neurotic) depression, nervous exhaustion, menopause, bed wetting, rheumatism, Gout ...
Description
Composition :
100% Hypericum perforatum flos/fol. - 340 mg
Part used :
Herb/leaf
St. John’s Wort, aka Goatweed, Tipton’s Weed, Klamath Weed, is a perennial herb with extensive, creeping rhizomes (underground stems or roots) and a member in the family Hypericaceae, native to the temperate and subtropical regions of Europe, Turkey, Russia, Middle East, India and China. It is considered a invasive species which can grow to 1 meter high (3ft), with yellow-green leaves about 12 millimeters (1/2in) and long, brightly colored yellow flowers of 2.5 cm (1in) in diameter. The leaves exhibit obvious translucent dots when held up into the light, giving them a perforated appearance – hence the plant’s latin name ‘perforatum’.
St. John’s Wort contains chlorogenic acid, luteolin, hyperoside, hyperforin (a substance with antiviral, antibacterial properties), essential oils and amino acids – a composition of substances which may explain the many medical benefits which include wound healing, pain killing, soothing, nervous system calming, energy increasing, cramp dissolving and blood cleansing properties. Quercetin appears to act like a natural antihistamine (blocks histamins which cause allergies like hay fever).
Most importantly, St. John’s Wort is widely accepted as a herbal treatment for depression; it is proposed that the mechanism of action is due to the inhibition of a re-uptake of certain neurotransmitters (serotonin, neuradrenalin). In a review of 20+ studies including 5‘000 patients by the Cochrane Collaboration (Oxford, England) it was concluded that St. John’s Worth produced effects similar to standard anti-depressants – but with fewer side effects.
Women in their climacteric period in particular seem to appreciate the benefits of St. John’s Wort; it lifts the mood and helps to find inner peace and mental balance. St. John’s Wort is the perfect remedy for nervous unrest and disturbances of psycho-vegetative nature without obvious physical cause.
History: The herb’s common name comes from its traditional flowering and harvesting on St. John’s day (June 24). The genus name Hypericum is derived from the greek words ‘hyper’ (above) and ‘eikon’ (picture), in reference to the plant’s traditional use in warding off evil by hanging plants over a religious icon during St. John’s day. In antiquity, St. John’s Wort was used to treat a range of health disorders; today it is a commonly accepted fact that many diseases have psychological reasons, which may account for the broad use of the plant in folk medicine.
Note: St. John’s Wort may cause photosensitivity of the skin, especially in light-skinned persons. Do not use St. John’s Wort before sunbathing (or visit to a tanning booth). Do not use within five days before surgery, as it may interact with medication. Do not combine with blood thinning agents (Coumarin-type drugs) or heart medication (e.g. Digoxin). Consult with your physician about using St. John’s Wort if you use contraceptive pills like ‘Minulet’ (may cause bleedings).
Dosage
Take 2-6 capsules daily, with plenty of water.