St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum
PLANT NAME
St. John's Wort
COMMON NAMES
Klamath Weed, Goatweed, Tipton's Weed
BOTANICAL NAME
Hypericum perforatum
IDENTIFICATION
A perennial herbaceous plant with opposite, stalkless leaves that appear to have tiny perforations (translucent dots) when held up to the light. The flowers are bright yellow, five-petaled, and when crushed, release a reddish-purple oil.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Flowering tops (aerial parts).
CULINARY USES
Not typically used in culinary applications, though sometimes added to herbal teas and spirits.
TRADITIONAL USES
Famous for its traditional use in supporting mood and emotional well-being. Topically, the red-infused oil has been used to soothe nerve pain, minor burns, and bruised tissue.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to parts of Europe and Asia, now naturalized worldwide. Prefers well-drained soils and full sun. Traditionally harvested around St. John's Day (late June) when the plant is in full bloom.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Always consult your doctor. St. John's Wort is well-known to interact with numerous medications, including antidepressants (SSRIs), birth control pills, and heart medications, by altering liver metabolism. It can also cause photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight).
RELATED PLANTS
Creeping St. John's Wort (Hypericum calycinum).