ST.JOHN'S WORT OIL

In folk medicine, St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is used for treating many diseases for centuries. This venerable and favorite herb grows in pastures, meadows and rocky cliffs. Blooms from May to August, and has flowers in strong yellow color and is also recognized by bitterness and specific smell.

St. John's wort is rich in iron, essential oils, resins, carotene, choline and vitamin C. The most important ingredient is hypericin, which relieves inflammation, because it prevents the development of bacteria and viruses. It is excellent for the treatment of gastritis and ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, and against kidney disease, bladder, liver, spleen, blood pressure and heart disease. It is also used externally against burns, hemorrhoids and for healing wounds. Recent scientific studies have confirmed that it is a good remedy for reducing depression because it contains hyperforin. This compound prevents the breakdown of serotonin (hormone of happiness) and alleviates depression. Compared with antidepressants, St. John's wort acts the same and has less side effects. St. John's wort contains melatonin, which our body secretes during sleep, so this plant is used as an excellent remedy for insomnia.


Preparation:

St.John's wort oil is prepared from fresh herbs. The scale is 100 g of flowers per liter of oil. It is prepared with cold pressed quality oil, commonly recommended olive oil. Leave flowers overnight, then follow the procedure: 
 

1. Put flowers in transparent glass bottle and pour them with oil.
2. Cover the bottle with gauze and fasten it with rubber band.
3. Allow to stand for 40 days in the sun, occasionally checking if all flowers are covered with oil.
4. On the fortieth day, drain well the oil with flowers through gauze and press the flowers to release the absorbed oil.
5. Assemble oil in dark bottles and close them well.
6. Keep outside of refrigerator.

Quality St John's wort oil has a dark red color, sometimes with purple hues. For inside problems, take 2-3 tbs a day before meal.