Hypericum perforatum is a yellow-flowering perrenial herb that comes fro Europe. It grows wild in many meadows and it's common name is associated with its harvesting on St. John's day, which falls around the Summer Solstice. The genus name Hypericum is derived from the Greek words hyper (above) and eikon (picture), in reference to the traditional use of the plant to ward off evil, by hanging plants over a religious icon in the house during St John's day. The species name perforatum refers to the small oil glands in the leaves that look like holes, which can be seen when they are held against the light.
St John's wort folk names include Tipton's Weed or Klamath weed. It was named after the patron saint of nurses, St. John. Among feminist herbalists St. John's wort is called St. Joan's wort referring to it's ability to make a wonderful sunscreen. The reasoning behind the name is that St. Joan knew more about burning that St. John. This herb is assoicated with helping people with depression but it has so many more uses. It helps with shigles, sciatica, back pain, neuralgia, and headaches including migraines. St. Joan's wort is a very stron anti-viral and I use it when the stomach virus is going around or when I have a viral cold. This herb has long been valued for its expectorant action, clearing phlegm from the chest and speeding recovery from coughs and chest infections. St. Joan's wort is wonderful for treating cold sores and herpes outbreaks.
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