St. John’s Wort is an herb that most people seem to know. It’s an herb that has enjoyed a bit of celebrity because of it’s medicinal value that has been embraced by mainstream society. This amazing plant is indeed a healing powerhouse for a wide range of maladies. Stock up now and use St. John’s Wort for mood and body ailments.
For the best results, these remedies should be made with fresh not dried flowers.
St. John’s Wort Tincture for Mood Troubles
St. John’s Wort is most commonly known for its ability to help ease symptoms of mild depression. If you struggle with seasonal affective disorder, St. John’s Worth might be able to help. To use this herb for treating mood issues make a tincture.
Harvest the flowers and place in a jar. Cover the flowers with vodka and seal. Place a jar in a cupboard and let sit a couple of weeks. Give the jar a shake when remembered. The vodka will take on a red hue and the flowers will lose all their color. Strain and store in an airtight bottle. To use: take 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon up to three times a day.
St. John’s Wort Oil for Body Aches
Less commonly know about these yellow flowers are their ability to ease body aches and inflammation. The best way to take advantage of these benefits is to make an infused oil.
Harvest the flowers and spread them out on a tray for a few hours. Wilting the flowers is the goal, not completely drying them. Once wilted put the flowers into a clean glass jar and cover with olive oil. Remove any air bubbles and seal the jar. Place in a sunny window and let sit for one month. Check now and then to make sure the flowers stay submerged. Like the tincture, the oil will turn red when done. Strain and store in a clean jar. To use: massage into sore muscles and joints as needed.
You could also make a salve from the oil for rubbing into skin.
Before fall sets in and these flowers stop blooming be sure to harvest some St. John’s Wort. The infusions are easy to make and can be true blessings for home healing.
As always check herbs for allergies and contraindications. Always talk to a trained herbalist or doctor.
Pam
Wednesday 5th of July 2017
I love reading your posts. Where do you find seed for many of the herbs I read about?
Homespun Seasonal Living
Thursday 6th of July 2017
I forage for a good many of these things as they grow wild or as 'weeds.' Strictly Medicinal Seeds, Seed Savers, & Baker Creek are all great sources of seed.