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Focus on Herbs: St John’s Wortby Lynne Latella In the Middle Ages, special flowers and plants were often consecrated to a particular saint, especially if the plant had medicinal properties. This herb is supposedly named after St. John, either because the flowers bloom on the anniversary of his beheading, or because early Christians believed it released a blood-red oil on that date. Whatever is true, it has been used for more than 2,000 years, primarily to heal wounds. It was thought to have magical properties and was often hung in the house as a protection against evils spirits and thunder. It was supposed to keep ghosts at bay for one year. Legend is that if a woman picks the plant on the anniversary night of St. John and hangs it in her bedroom, she will dream of her future -husband. The Greeks used St. John's Wort to heal wounds and dispel melancholy. A concoction of flowers infused in olive oil was prepared to ease pain, close wounds and reduce swelling and bruising. Flower-soaked brandy was drunk to ease melancholy and eliminate madness. Early colonists believed they had introduced it to the New World, but quickly discovered that the Indians were already using it for snakebites, fever, diarrhea, wounds, asthma, hemorrhoids and skin problems. The Germans and Russians have performed intensive research, and have discovered that the herb to contain a high concentration of flavenoids, an immune system stimulant. As such, it is a successful anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant and antiviral remedy. The most dramatic discovery may be its effectiveness against a family of viruses including HIV. It can also be used for muscle knots, female problems (including mood-related menopausal symptoms), sciatica, tumors and boils, and for blood purification. According to healthy.net, in one study it was shown to be more effective than the antibiotic sulfanilamide against the staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria that are so prevalent in hospitals. Although this herb is a well known antidepressant, it should not be considered an instant relief for depression. It may take up to several months to realize the full benefit. It works best for mild to moderate depression. There can be side effects, such as upset stomach and photosensitivity. It should not be taken in combination with certain substances, including beer, wine, coffee, dairy, chocolate, smoked or pickled food, Prozac, decongestants and inhalants. Check with a healthcare professional first. The Coop carries various forms of St. John's Wort, along with books for those who want more information. Some of the remedies are in capsules, compounds, tinctures and tea. Calming Tea Steep 1-2 tsp. dried St. John's Wort in 1 cup boiling water for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups per day for depression, or as an immune system stimulator.
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