St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a flowering plant native to Europe, but now widespread in many parts of the world. Named after St. John the Baptist, it traditionally blooms around his feast day in late June.
The plant has been used for over 2,000 years, dating back to ancient Greece, where it was employed to treat wounds, burns, and mental health disorders. In medieval Europe, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and was used in various protective rituals.
The herb contains hypericin and hyperforin, compounds known for their antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Today, St. John’s Wort is widely used to treat mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and nerve pain.
