Botanical Overview
Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John’s Wort, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Hypericaceae. The plant is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa but has become naturalized worldwide. The primary parts used medicinally are the flowering tops and aerial parts harvested during bloom. Common names include St. John’s Wort, Hypericum, and Tipton’s Weed.
Energetics
Energetically, Hypericum perforatum is considered neutral in temperature and drying in moisture. It has a combination of bitter, astringent, and sweet tastes. Its directionality is ascending, and it is generally regarded as relaxing in tonicity, supporting the qi system.
Primary Actions
- Antidepressant
- Anxiolytic
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Nervine
Indications
Western
- Mild to moderate depression
- Anxiety
- Wounds and burns
- Nerve pain
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Neurogenic depression
- Mild anxiety disorders
- Cutaneous wounds and burns
TCM
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Nervous agitation
Syndromes
- Liver Qi stagnation
- Heart Fire
Ayurveda
- Mental fatigue
- Depression
Syndromes
- Manas Roga (mental disorders)
- Vata and Kapha imbalances
Unani
- Melancholia
- Nerve pain
Syndromes
- Sauda related melancholia
- Nervous disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemical constituents include hypericin, hyperforin, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids. These compounds contribute to its antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Extract standardized to 0.3% hypericin, 300 mg 1-3 times daily
- Infusion of 2-4 g aerial parts in 150-250 ml water, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture (1:5 in 70% ethanol), 1-3 mL 2-3 times daily
- Oil maceration used topically on wounds and burns
Safety & Contraindications
Hypericum perforatum can cause photosensitivity and has numerous drug interactions including with antidepressants, oral contraceptives, anticoagulants, and immunosuppressants. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Concomitant use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors and other serotonergic drugs should be avoided due to risk of serotonin syndrome.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary rulership is traditionally associated with the Sun, and the elemental ruler is Fire, aligning with its energizing and uplifting actions.
Selected References
- Assessment report on Hypericum perforatum L., herba – EMA (2019)
- Hypericum perforatum: pharmacology and clinical uses – Butterweck V., PubMed (2003)
- Physicians’ Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines – Griffiths R.R. (2000)
- The Complete Herbal – Julian Hill (1908)
- A Modern Herbal – Maud Grieve (1931)