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I bought this plant two years ago from a nursery, and transplanted it when we moved house about one year ago. After a sad start (I believe due to lack of sunlight in its previous place), this year it's really thriving, probably because of its sunny spot and the really hot and sunny late spring/early summer we've been having (climate change?). This year it also started spreading by underground runners, although it's still under control (it hasn't taken over the garden yet!).
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| My St. John's Wort took over most of its box now. |
St. John's Wort is known for its use internally to treat depression, anxiety, and similar conditions; however, I use it mostly for infusing oil or making tincture with alcohol. Used externally, the oil can treat many different skin ailments. The German Kommission E (advisory board that evaluates the efficacy of traditional herbal remedies) has endorsed its use for wounds, muscle pain and first degree burns (
Link to the monograph - in German).
To make the oil, I cut the flowering parts of the plant in summer (traditionally, this was done around June 24 - St. John the Baptist's day), fill a clean glass jar to about half capacity, and fill the jar with oil - in this case I used organic almond oil, but others such as olive oil can be used. Put the jar somewhere where it receives sunlight (e.g. a windowsill) and shake it from time to time. After a few days, the oil should start taking a strong red color. In about 6 weeks it can be filtered and will be ready to use.
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| St. John's Wort oil in the making. |
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Caution - St. John's Wort can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it's important to take precautions before sun exposure.
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