St. John's wort - the age-old healer

St. John's wort, scientifically known as Hypericum perforatum, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Bellflower family (Clusiaceae). It is also known as St. John's wort, St. John's wort, St. John's wort, Bulgarian geranium or Bulgarian grass. The plant is widespread in Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America.

The history of St. John's wort is linked to its use in traditional medicine over the centuries. The cultivation and use of St. John's wort as a medicinal remedy is removed from ancient Greek and Roman culture. The Greek physician Dioscorides and the Roman natural history writer Pliny the Elder both described the benefits of St. John's wort in strengthening wounds and counteracting depression. In the Middle Ages, St. John's wort gained a reputation as a remedy against the Black Death and other epidemics. In folk medicine, the herb is still used today to treat a variety of ailments, including depression, anxiety, gastrointestinal problems, and wounds.

Growing St John's wort is relatively easy. It prefers medium to well-drained soil and full sun, but can grow in partial shade. The plant is propagated by seed or by division of the branches. Cantharion has light green leaves and yellow flowers, which are characteristic of species in the genus Hypericum. To grow it, you need to plant the seeds or plants in a pot or garden bed. The soil should be well prepared and well watered. When grown in the garden, St. John's Wort is often cut back to stimulate growth and prevent overgrowth.

The herb contains a number of active constituents including hyperforin, hypericin and flavonoids, which are thought to be responsible for its many health benefits.
St. John's wort contains a variety of biologically active constituents that may contribute to its health benefits. Some of St. John's wort's main constituents include:

The composition of St. John's wort includes various bioactive constituents. Here are some of them:

1. Flavonoids: B St. John's wort contain various flavonoids, including:
2. Hyperforin - Has antidepressant properties and is thought to help improve mood and ease symptoms of depression.
3. Hyperoside - Helps reduce inflammation and improve the body's overall health.
4. Routine - It is known for its antioxidant properties and can help improve circulation and blood vessel health.
5. Quercetin - Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system.
6. Camferol - Antioxidant Action: Camferol is a powerful antioxidant that helps the body protect itself from free radicals and oxidative stress

These antioxidants can help protect cells from free radical damage.

• Tannins: Cantharione contains tannins, which are natural compounds with antioxidant properties.
• Essential oils: essential oils are also present in St. John's wort and give the herb its characteristic aroma.
• Coumarins: They are a group of compounds found in St. John's wort and can have a variety of pharmacological properties.

These ingredients work together to give St. John's Wort its characteristics and beneficial properties. However, it is important to note that the exact composition of St. John's Wort can vary depending on factors such as location, growing conditions and harvesting methods.

St. John's wort is known for its beneficial properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments. Here are some of the benefits of St. John's wort:

1. Antidepressant:  St. John's wort is used as a natural alternative method to help manage depression, improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms. St John's wort is used as a natural alternative to antidepressants. Some studies have shown that it can improve mood and help with mild to moderate depression. It can be used alone or in combination with other therapies.
2. Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effect: The herb is used to relieve inflammation in the body and to relieve allergic reactions. This can be useful in various conditions such as arthritis, urogenital infections and respiratory problems.
3. Accelerate wound healing: St John's wort is used to treat wounds and burns. When used externally, it helps stimulate the skin regeneration process and has antiseptic properties.
4. It can help speed up the healing process of skin tissues and have antiseptic properties.
5. Improving skin condition: St John's wort is used to treat a variety of skin problems including seborrheic dermatitis, acne and eczema. It can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritations, improve overall skin condition and fight bacterial infections.
6. Calming effect: St John's wort is used to relieve stress, anxiety and insomnia. It can help improve sleep quality and reduce nervousness.
7. Pain and inflammation: St John's wort is used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis and muscle strains. It can have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
8. Cardiovascular health: St John's wort can be used to support the health of the heart and circulatory system. Some studies have shown that it can improve circulation, reduce cholesterol levels, and support healthy heart functioning.
9. Other uses: St. John's wort can also be used to treat urogenital infections, digestive disorders, nervous disorders and sleep disorders.

The herb finds application for both external and internal use.
An infusion of the herb can be made in a ratio of 1 tsp of herb to 250 ml of water. The decoction is drunk for a daynight.
For ulcers and colitis, the ratio of 2 tbsp herb to 1 l of water is brewed for 15 minutes. The decoction is drunk overnight instead of water.

It is important to note that when taking St. John's wort, the directions of a health professional should be followed or the directions on the product label should be followed. The herb may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants, contraceptives, and anticoagulants, and may have adverse effects when administered incorrectly. Before taking St John's wort, it is advisable to consult your doctor or pharmacist.