ST. JOHN'S WORT - HYPERICUM PERFORATUM
ST. JOHN'S WORT - HYPERICUM PERFORATUM
Local name: კრაზანა
Where to find it: All regions of Georgia
Terrain: Meadows, fields, and along roadsides
Description:
Hypericum perforatum, commonly referred to as St. John’s Wort, is a herbaceous perennial plant known for its distinctive appearance and medicinal properties. The plant features numerous bright yellow flowers, each with five petals and numerous stamens that create a striking and vibrant display. The flowers are arranged in loose clusters at the top of the stems, adding a burst of color to the landscape. The leaves are opposite, oblong, and dotted with tiny translucent glands that contain hypericin and other compounds. These punctate glands, visible when held up to the light, contribute to the plant’s characteristic speckled appearance. St. John’s Wort has a branching and bushy growth habit, forming a rounded shape. It typically reaches a height of 30 to 80 centimeters.
Usable parts: Flowers; leaves; stems
Medicinal properties:
Flowers: The flowers of St. John’s Wort are rich in bioactive compounds, notably hypericin, hyperforin, and various flavonoids. Hypericin is known for its potential antidepressant and antiviral effects, while hyperforin is believed to play a role in modulating neurotransmitters in the brain. The flowers are commonly used in herbal preparations to address conditions such as mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and nerve-related pain. St. John’s Wort has been studied for its mood-enhancing properties and is thought to influence serotonin levels in the brain.
Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and other secondary metabolites with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While not as commonly utilized as the flowers, the leaves may be included in herbal formulations for their mild calming effects. Some traditional uses involve using St. John’s Wort to alleviate symptoms associated with digestive issues and minor skin irritations.
Stems: The stems may contain trace amounts of the active constituents found in the flowers. Stems are generally included in extracts where various plant parts are combined to create a more comprehensive herbal remedy.
Extracts: Extracts of St. John’s Wort are prepared by macerating the flowers, leaves, and sometimes stems in alcohol or another suitable solvent. These extracts concentrate the bioactive compounds, making them easier to administer in standardized doses. St. John’s Wort extracts are widely used for their potential antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. The plant’s ability to modulate neurotransmitter levels, particularly serotonin, makes it a subject of interest in the management of mood disorders.
Preparation:
Flowers: To prepare a medicinal infusion, use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers per cup of hot water. Steep the flowers for 5 to 10 minutes, strain, and enjoy as a tea. For tinctures, finely chop the fresh or dried flowers and place them in a clean glass jar. Cover with alcohol (such as vodka) and let it sit for several weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain the liquid, and the resulting tincture can be used in controlled doses.
Leaves: For an herbal tea, use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 5 to 10 minutes, strain, and drink. Leaves can also be included in tinctures, following the same process as with the flowers.
Stems: they can be chopped and added to tinctures along with the flowers and leaves. The stems contribute to the overall medicinal properties of the plant.
Extracts: To create a comprehensive extract, combine dried flowers, leaves, and stems in a clean glass jar. Cover the plant material with alcohol or another suitable solvent. Let the mixture sit for several weeks in a dark place, shaking periodically. After straining, the resulting extract can be used in controlled doses. Extracts are convenient for standardized dosing and often used for their potential antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
Harvest time:
In late spring to early summer
Harvest method:
Flowers: Choose a sunny day when the flowers are fully open. Harvest the entire flower heads, including the
petals and stamens, using clean and sharp scissors or pruning shears. Collecting flowers during this period ensures the highest concentration of active compounds.
Leaves: Choose healthy leaves, avoiding any signs of disease or damage. Harvest the leaves using clean scissors or pruning shears.
Stems: Choose stems that are still flexible and green, avoiding any woody or overly mature
Conservation:
Flowers, leaves and stems: The best conservation method for flowers, leaves and stems involves thorough drying. After harvesting, spread the flowers, leaves and stems in a single layer in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Allow them to air-dry completely to prevent mold and degradation of active compounds. Once dried, store theflowers, leaves and stems in airtight containers, away from moisture and light.
Extracts: To conserve St. John’s Wort extracts, store them in dark glass bottles with airtight lids to protect against light and air exposure, which can degrade the active compounds. Keep the bottles in a cool, dark place.
