St. John's Wort

I couldn't find another thread in this forum about this particular herb, if I overlooked it, however, I'm sorry.

Latin Name: ( Hypericum perforatum )

Planetary Ruler: The Sun

Element: Fire

Magical Properties:

St. John’s Wort is often used in spells and rituals for protection, health, happiness, and strength. It is also thought to ward off ghosts, demons, and the evil eye. It is also often burned as an incense during the Summer Solstice for protection and purification of ritual space.

Folklore:

It was believe that if the plant was picked before the rising of the sun, while the dew still remained on its leaves, it could be used in love divination rituals. It was also believe to ward off thieves, lightening strikes, fire, and evil spirits if hung from the front door of the home. If the root of the plant was placed under your pillow you were said to have visions of your future partner.

Medicinal Uses:

St. John’s Wort can be used to treat depression, anxiety, coughs, digestion issues, bronchial issues, diarrhea, menstrual pain, fatigue, flu, gout, insomnia, irritability, ulcers, and stress. It also has antiseptic, pain relieving, and anti-viral properties. The leaves and flowers can be brewed into a tea and drank (1-2 cups a day until symptoms improve) to help relieve the problems mentioned above. It can also be bought in the form of a dietary supplement in the homeopathic section of your local shopping center.

It can be used as an ointment for the treatment of: bruises, burns, scratches, cuts, hemorrhoids, sunburn relief, herpes, varicose veins, sciatica, and to relieve nerve pain.

Side Effects:

It can cause issues with HIV medications, heart medications, seizure medications, cancer medications, anticoagulants, seizure medications, and medications being taken by organ transplant patients. It can also cause photosensitivity, nausea, increase in blood pressure, and weakening of birth control pills.

Before taking any herbal supplement, consult with your doctor.



Sources:

http://www.gardensablaze.com/HerbStJohnsWortMed.htm

http://nccam.nih.gov/health/stjohnswort/ataglance.htm

Buckland, Raymond. "The Witch Book: The Encyclopedia of Witchcraft, Wicca, and Neo-Paganism." Conton, MI: Visible Ink Press, 2002.

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