St. John's wort herb cures for what. Useful and medicinal properties of St. John's wort herb. Recipes for using St. John's wort in folk medicine

Medicinal properties of the herb

Phenolcarbonic, ascorbic, valeric organic acids, tannins and essential oils inherent in St. John's wort have a depressing effect on the proliferation of dysentery bacteria, salmonella, and staphylococcus.

Lotions, decoctions, creams, ointments, oils, which include St. John's wort, are used in the treatment of burns, ulcers, frostbite, suppuration, poorly healing wounds after surgery, rhinitis and all types of oral diseases.

Medicinal medications and preparations based on St. John's wort actively contribute to the treatment of many ailments:

1. Lung diseases:

• chronic inflammation of the respiratory tract;
• acute respiratory disease;
• tuberculosis;
• pneumonia.

• maxillary sinuses;
• nasal mucosa;
• throat tissue;
• mucous membrane of the pharynx;
• mucous membranes of the larynx;
• posterior parts of the nose.

• opening of a wound of the stomach and duodenum (ulcer);
• gastritis;
• colitis;
• cholangitis.

They relieve fatigue, lethargy, apathy, reduce headache, have a calming effect on neuroses and convulsions.

Biologically active flavonoid compounds in the plant have a positive effect on the heart muscles, strengthen the walls of blood vessels, promote an increase in blood pressure, improve blood flow and help restore human skin.

St. John's wort is the only natural plant material for the production of antibiotics.

Contraindications and harm during use

Prevention of poisoning with drugs based on St. John's wort is the main caution in their use. Long-term use of such drugs and exceeding the recommended dosage cause disruption of the body's vital functions, which can cause poisoning.

Medicines based on St. John's wort, taken simultaneously with heart medications, neutralize their effect. Unauthorized increase in the dose of such medications increases the risk of cramps in the intestines and stomach pain.

Hypertensive patients should not abuse decoctions and infusions of St. John's wort, as they actively contribute to increasing pressure in the blood vessels. For the same reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should not consume them excessively.

Increased dosage and long-term use of medications with St. John's wort by men provokes impotence. Stopping taking such drugs restores it.

Migraine, general weakness of the body, severe dizziness appears when taking antidepressants and medications made using St. John's wort simultaneously. Such drugs significantly reduce the beneficial effects of antibiotics, contraceptives, and painkillers.

St. John's wort completely neutralizes the effect medicinal drugs taken by AIDS patients.

A bitter taste in my mouth, painful feelings in the liver area is caused by long-term use of such a plant in various dosage forms.

During periods of viral and infectious diseases traditional medicine recommends not to use preparations made from St. John's wort, as it reduces immunity and increases the recovery period.

Medicines, infusions based on healing herb prohibited for use by children under 12 years of age.

Knowledge of contraindications for St. John's wort and strict adherence to the prescribed dosage are the keys to successful therapeutic use.

Composition of St. John's wort

1. Vitamins:

• C - actively participates in the activity of cellular enzymes, metabolism, promotes, protects the stomach from the formation of ulcers.
• P – reduces the fragility of capillary vessels. In combination with vitamin C, it increases the elasticity of capillary walls, has a beneficial effect on lowering blood pressure, normalizes heartbeat and intraocular pressure. Participates in the bile formation process, reduces swelling, and plays the role of an anesthetic.
• PP - normalizes the functioning of the digestive system, liver, pancreas, the production of insulin in the body, hemoglobin, red blood cells, promotes the processing of fats and sugar into energy, reducing cholesterol in the blood, easing migraine attacks.
• E – prevents education blood clots and promotes their liquefaction, actively participates in wound healing and prevention of scar formation, improves the process of cell “respiration”. “Protects” vitamin A from oxidation, improves protein metabolism in the body.

3. Phytoncides– an active substance produced by St. John's wort that stops the growth and development of microscopic fungi, protozoa, and bacteria.

4. Saponins– help improve expectoration and increase urine output.

5. Quercetin– contributes to death cancer cells, restores damaged areas of arteries, is acceptable in the treatment of arthritis, has a high choleretic property.

6. Tannins– an excellent astringent and anti-inflammatory agent. Good for cuts, abrasions, burns, and for the prevention of the digestive system.

7. Flavonoids– endowed with diverse medicinal characteristics. They increase the flow of bile from the gallbladder and promote digestion, improve appetite and calm the nervous system, promote active blood supply to internal organs and wound healing. They act as an excellent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic and stimulant. They protect the walls of blood vessels during heart disease and diabetes, reduce allergy symptoms, prevent dementia, and have an inhibitory effect on cancer cells.

Medicinal products from St. John's wort

Examples of recipes for preparing various drugs are given later in this article. But it is not recommended to decide on the use of medications on your own without consulting a doctor. After all, the wrong dosage leads to irreversible consequences.

Treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis

• Mix 250 g in an enamel pan castor oil with 1 medium aloe leaf ground in a meat grinder. Bring the resulting mixture to a boil (but do not boil), add 25 g of chocolate melted in a water bath and 60 g of St. John's wort alcohol tincture. Cool the mixture to room temperature, stirring regularly. Place in the refrigerator, preferably in a dark, tightly sealed glass container for 8 days. Use the resulting medicinal product every 8 hours, 50 g at a time for 30 days. Conduct 2 courses with a break of a month.
• To 1 liter of “steep” boiling water, add 100 g of dry St. John’s wort herb crushed in a mortar, add 50 g of dry leaves and 80 g of motherwort. Infuse by wrapping the container in a warm blanket. After cooling to +20°C, filter through a tea sieve. Take the infusion for 3 months in the morning and evening, 100 g in a heated state. It is possible to add flower honey or sugar to taste.
• Boil 120 g of dry elecampane and 50 g of dried St. John's wort inflorescences in 1 liter of purified water for 40 minutes. 200 g heated olive oil stir until smooth with 500 g of flower honey. Add a mixture of honey and butter to the hot broth, strained through a tea sieve, and stir thoroughly until a homogeneous mass is obtained. Ready mixture cool to room temperature, place in a cool, dark place for 14 days (it is acceptable to use the bottom shelf of the refrigerator). Take 15 g of warm, well-shaken product 30 minutes before meals for 15 days. Should be used for pneumonia.
• Soak 30 g of freshly cut inflorescences and leaves of St. John's wort for 10 days in a dark, cool place with 200 g of 96 percent medical alcohol, shaking 3 times a day. Take 45 drops at the end of a meal.

Treatment of influenza and nasopharynx

• Place 120 g of finely crushed dried leaves, inflorescences, stems of St. John's wort in 500 g of vodka, leave for 48 hours, shaking from time to time. Dissolve 20 g of the resulting tincture in 200 g of warm purified or boiled water. Take 25 g 30 minutes before meals.
• 50 g of crushed dry leaves of St. John's wort and the same amount pine buds soak for 1 hour in a thermos with 1 liter of just boiled water. Consume 100 g during the day every 2 hours.
• For inhalation, use the above infusion with the addition of 25 g of dried immortelle flowers and the same amount of oak bark per 200 g of infusion. The course of therapy is 5 sessions.

• Keep 200 g of chopped St. John's wort inflorescences seasoned with boiling water for 15 minutes in a water bath. Cool to room temperature. Before use, add 40 drops of 10% to 150 g of filtered decoction. alcohol infusion propolis. You need to gargle 4 times a day.
• 10 drops of 30% alcohol tincture of St. John's wort and dilute in equal parts by weight with 50 g of warm water. Consume before every meal.

• Grind 30 g of freshly cut St. John's wort inflorescences, add 200 g of olive oil. Cover from daylight for 15 days, shaking occasionally. Practically apply 5 drops in each nostril 6 times a day.
• Inhale dried St. John's wort crushed in a mortar through your nose in the morning and evening.
• Smear the nasal cavities with a composition of 50 g of St. John's wort oil (the manufacturing recipe is described above) and 50 g Kalanchoe juice. Inhalation with a decoction of St. John's wort and lubrication with the prepared composition give quick positive result in curing a runny nose.
• Mix 50 g of flower honey and 50 g of St. John's wort oil thoroughly. Apply to the sinuses 5 times a day.

• To rinse the nasal cavities and gargle, prepare 500 g of decoction. To do this, you need 25 g of dry inflorescences and leaves of St. John's wort, 20 g of eucalyptus and peppermint leaves, and soak 25 g of chamomile inflorescences in a water bath for 25 minutes. Carry out the washing procedure in the morning and evening with a heated decoction. Carry out inhalations with the same composition of the decoction, alternating them with rinsing.
• Mix 10 g of St. John's wort ointment (50 g of unsalted butter with 15 g of dry St. John's wort herb crushed in a mortar) in a blender with 5 drops of celandine juice until an emulsion is obtained. Apply 2 drops of the resulting emulsion to each nostril 4 times a day.

Stomach and intestinal therapy

Stomach ulcer. Consume 15 g of dry herb St. John's wort, crushed into powder, 0.5 hours before meals. Take 15 g of filtered St. John's wort oil (500 g of olive oil is infused for 30 days with 200 g of freshly picked St. John's wort flowers and leaves). Also, a satisfactory result is obtained by taking 15 g of the above-mentioned oil 3 times a day.

Stomach upsets. Brew ordinary tea: 10 g of dry leaves of St. John's wort, chamomile and mint per 250 g of boiled water. Drinking tea “calms” the stomach and relieves pain. It is recommended to drink this tea with flower honey, dissolving the honey in your mouth and drinking small sips of freshly prepared tea.

Heartburn. For 1 liter of “steep” boiling water, add 25 g of dry leaves of St. John’s wort and sage, add a handful of dry rose hips. Let it sit overnight, after wrapping it in a warm cloth. Take 100 g before each meal.

Restoring liver function

Hepatitis. Prepare a herbal mixture from equal parts by weight of St. John's wort, mint, celandine, chamomile, and licorice root. Boil 50 g of the collection over low heat for 10 minutes. Drink the strained drink before breakfast and dinner, 200 g each.

Cholelithiasis. A herbal collection consisting of 60 g of St. John's wort, 40 g of mint and buckthorn bark, 30 g of celandine and crushed kishnets fruits, pour 500 g of very hot water, wrap with thick warm cloth for 2 hours. Drink the resulting drink in equal portions throughout the day.

Malfunction of the biliary tract. Infuse 40 g of St. John's wort and 60 g of sandy immortelle flowers in 1 liter of “steep” boiling water for 10 minutes. Drink the filtered drink in equal parts within 1 day.

Inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis). Mix 50 g of St. John's wort with 15 wild hop cones and 60 g of wormwood, valerian, mint (20 g of each type), scald with 0.5 liters of boiling water and leave for 2 hours. Take 250 g in the morning before breakfast, in the evening before bed.

Pour 100 g of herbs into 1 liter of very hot water. Let cool in a natural way. Filter. Consume 40 minutes after each meal.

It is not recommended to make and take drugs according to the above recipes without qualified consultation with a doctor.

Treatment of burns, wounds, skin diseases

• St. John's wort oil is used to cover wounds and burns for faster wound healing.
• 5 raw proteins Mix the eggs thoroughly until a homogeneous mass is obtained with 50 g of St. John's wort oil. Lubricate burn areas.
• Apply a medicinal bandage of gauze soaked in a decoction of St. John's wort and secure it with a bandage on wounds, ulcers, and burns. To prepare the decoction, boil 250 g of water with 50 g of dry herb. Cool naturally for at least 2 hours. Change the dressing in the morning and evening.
• Baths with St. John's wort decoction. Boil 200 g of dried herb in 2 liters of water for 10 minutes. Cool. Add to bath. Take every other day for no more than 30 minutes.

St. John's wort in cosmetology

• reduces itching and irritation of sensitive skin;
• increases whiteness and rejuvenates the skin;
• helps to narrow sebaceous pores, reduce sweating, and improves the elasticity of capillaries;
• contributes to the normalization of metabolism, because oily skin produces less sebaceous secretion; when wet, it stops releasing moisture;
• smoothes wrinkles on the face, reduces tightness and eliminates dryness of the facial skin.

Undiluted St. John's wort oil is used to treat burns, small wounds, and herpes rashes.

For dry skin. Increasing moisture in the skin of the face is achieved by moisture-retaining masks, which increase the firmness and elasticity of the skin, but they should be used no more than 2 times a week.

You need to beat 25 g of St. John's wort oil in a blender with 1 egg yolk and 15 g of freshly prepared carrot juice. Apply the resulting mixture to your face, leave for 25 minutes and rinse with warm water.

For oily skin. To 15 g of St. John's wort oil add 5 drops of tea tree oil and 1 egg white. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Apply the resulting suspension to your face, and after 20 minutes, rinse with cold water. This procedure is recommended to be carried out once every 7 days.

From acne. Beat 10 g of St. John's wort oil, 10 g of lavender oil, 10 g of sandalwood oil in a blender. Add 10 g olive oil. Let sit for 30 minutes. Apply the mixture to the face with gentle circular massage movements. After 30 minutes, rinse with heated water and blot with a napkin.

Recipes for making St. John's wort oil and decoctions are given in this article above.

Pharmacy drugs

Deprim tablets. Round green tablets with St. John's wort extract and hypericin. Prescribed for mild and average shape depression.

Capsules "Deprim Forte". Capsules in a green gelatin shell with an increased amount of hypericin. Taken for low mood or depression due to climatic weather conditions.

Hypericin capsules. The drug is completely of plant origin. Improves the functioning of the autonomic and central nervous system in depression.

"Negrustin." Release form: capsules or solution. An excellent antidepressant. Used for moderate depression.

St. John's wort grass briquettes. Used to prepare decoctions, tinctures, teas.

Alcohol tincture herbs St. John's wort. A 40 percent tincture is used to rinse the mouth, throat, and nose.

St. John's wort and its properties (video)

Also read.

Hello, friends! Today I want to remind you of the miraculous herb that is familiar to each of us. This is St. John's wort - a herb with medicinal properties, the benefits and correct use of which I will try to reveal as fully as possible in my story.

A modest-looking bush with variegated flowers can be found almost anywhere in our country. It grows densely on the edges of forests, in fields, meadows and along country roads. Despite its unpretentiousness, the plant is considered one of the most commonly used in herbal medicine. No wonder its second, popular name is sickleweed. And indeed it is.

Herb St. John's wort - medicinal properties

Herb St. John's wort - its medicinal properties are so diverse that there is hardly a person who has never used them as aid for a wide variety of ailments. It is useful for small children to rinse their mouths and throats with a decoction of St. John's wort at the first signs of inflammatory processes.

And adults who have stomach problems take infusions based on it orally to relieve the exacerbation of the disease. Paralyzed or bedridden patients should definitely wipe their bedsores with oil containing crushed plant flowers - this will reduce the risk of tissue necrosis and promote the speedy healing of wounds.

This simple and unassuming herb, which we see in the photo, has many useful characteristics.

Sickweed has:

• anti-inflammatory,
• bactericidal,
• hemostatic;
• antispasmodic;
• wound healing;
• choleretic;
• sedative;
• expectorant;
• astringent property

Decoctions from it are used in the treatment of the liver, gastrointestinal diseases, ulcers, abscesses, mastitis, rheumatism and many other problems. It has recently been scientifically proven that the substances contained in this herb have a positive effect on the nervous system.

Therefore, doctors are increasingly prescribing medications based on it for treatment. mild stage depression. Thanks to its binders and antiseptic properties, St. John's wort is used in cosmetology to improve skin condition, reduce acne, and fight dandruff and baldness.

Who among us is unfamiliar with the taste of tea with dried yellow flowers? This truly Russian drink has long been present on peasant tables. It is believed (and not in vain) that Herb tea tones and strengthens the body, helps our nervous system fight stress, gives good dream and improves immunity.

There are many folk recipes, with the help of which we can relieve painful conditions of various organs at home. Let's find out some of them:

1. For colds, ARVI, to stabilize general well-being, take 50 ml of St. John's wort infusion three times a day after meals.
2. For inflammatory processes in the oral mucosa (stomatitis, gingivitis), 40 drops of pharmaceutical alcohol tincture diluted in half a glass will help you warm water. Rinse your mouth with this solution.
3. Do your joints often bother you? Roll up several layers of gauze soaked in warm St. John's wort oil and place the compress on sore spot. Wrap a woolen scarf on top.
4. To improve the condition of your hair, place 3-4 tablespoons of dried St. John's wort and sage flowers in half a liter of water and simmer covered over low heat for half an hour. Strain the solution and rinse clean hair and scalp after water treatments. After a few days of this therapy, your curls will acquire a healthy shine, become lush and flexible, and dandruff will disappear.

St. John's wort - herb, medicinal properties and contraindications

It is known that St. John's wort is a herb that has its own medicinal properties and contraindications. Often these characteristics depend not only on the method of application and dosage, but also on compliance with the conditions of collection and storage of the plant.

Like any other medicinal herb– St. John's wort must be properly processed in order to preserve all its beneficial properties.

The collection and preparation of grass takes place throughout all three summer months, since this is the time of its flowering. You need to cut off the tops before the fruits ripen - they have all the beneficial properties. Further actions no different from the preparation of any other medicinal herb. If you've ever done this, you probably know all the rules:

• clean raw materials from dust and dirt;
• dry in the sun or in the attic, spreading the grass on a clean cloth in one thin layer;
• Collect dried plants in bunches and hang in a dry, well-ventilated and protected from sun rays indoors.

In this form, the plant can retain its benefits for three years.

Here are some simple tips on how to prepare St. John's wort infusion:

1. Place 1 tablespoon of dried or 2 full tablespoons of fresh flowers in an enamel or ceramic bowl.
2. Pour a glass of boiling water (200ml) over the herb.
3. Cover with a lid and leave to steep for a couple of hours.
4. Strain and take in dosed form no more than 3 times a day.

This infusion is effective for gastritis, cystitis, colitis, and will help quickly relieve headaches.

Do not forget that with all the positive effects of herbal medicine, you may have contraindications to this type of treatment. With caution to herbal decoctions and tinctures should be suitable if you have:

• individual intolerance to any of the components that make up the plant;
• there are manifestations of an allergy of unknown origin on the skin;
• exacerbation of a chronic disease;
• you are taking strong medications.

Before practicing herbal medicine, consult a qualified medical worker. Based on your individual readings and tests, he will give correct diagnosis and prescribe adequate therapy. And St. John's wort will be a reliable help on your path to recovery.

St. John's wort herb medicinal properties for men

The positive effect of the medicinal properties of St. John's wort for men has long been known. Healers advised those suffering from male impotence to regularly drink tea with this herb; its dried flowers were part of many love spells.

It is believed that an infusion of St. John's wort with honey has the properties natural aphrodisiac and, taken immediately before intimacy, gives an amazing effect. This is not only popular belief, but also a scientifically proven fact - the biologically active substances contained in the plant have a positive effect on the functioning of the glands internal secretion and accelerate blood circulation, which, in turn, enhances male potency.

But do not forget that constant stimulation can lead to the opposite result and sexual desire will decrease. You should not resort to this method too often.

St. John's wort herb - medicinal properties in gynecology

The medicinal properties of St. John's wort, a herb in gynecology, are also widely used. Many women face the problem of painful or inconsistent periods, unstable hormonal levels or early menopause. With all these unpleasant conditions St. John's wort decoction has a stabilizing and calming effect. For the treatment of inflammatory processes, ointment helps well - it should be used in the form of tampons at night.

• erosive process of the cervix;
• colpitis, vaginitis and other types of inflammation of the vagina;
• painful menstruation;
• disturbances of the monthly cycle;
• mastopathy.

However, you need to remember that using herbal infusions during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended. St. John's wort reduces the level of the hormone prolactin in the blood of the expectant mother, which can negatively affect proper development fetus Also, teas or drinks containing this herb may affect the taste breast milk, give it bitterness, which will cause problems with feeding the baby.

Herb St. John's wort - benefits and harm

Unfortunately, there is not a single product in the world that would be a panacea for all diseases and would be equally suitable for the body of every person. The herb St. John's wort is no exception and, if used incorrectly, can bring not only benefits, but also harm to our health.

There are certain situations when decoctions based on St. John's wort can cause negative consequences. Not recommended for oral administration herbal teas and tinctures:

1. Children under 12 years old.
2. With high blood pressure.
3. Increased acidity.
4. Tendency to internal bleeding.
5. During pregnancy and lactation.
6. With a significant increase in body temperature.

Remember that excessive consumption of herbal infusions can adversely affect liver function and cause a decrease in the effectiveness of some medicines(for example, antibiotics, heart medications, oral contraceptives and anticoagulants), cause constipation and intestinal cramps.

In general, do not forget the proverb - “From medicine to poison - one step.” Do not increase the dose yourself medicinal drugs, infusions or decoctions and monitor your well-being.

St. John's wort herb - medicinal properties and contraindications for children

Before using herbs in pediatrics, you must be sure to familiarize yourself with what medicinal properties of St. John's wort are contraindicated for children.

Young children should not take St. John's wort herb internally. This is allowed only when they reach adolescence. But all sorts of ointments, lotions or compresses based on it will quite effectively help fight small pustules or skin burns and show their wound-healing properties. It is also recommended to add an infusion of herbs to the water when bathing the baby - this will have antiseptic effect on the skin and will help you calm down before bed.

It must be remembered that a child’s body is much weaker than an adult’s, so any side effects will manifest themselves more acutely, to a greater extent. This means that independently prescribing treatment for your child according to traditional medicine prescriptions is quite dangerous, and can lead to unforeseen and unpleasant consequences.

Here it is, the herb St. John's wort - medicinal properties, indications and contraindications. I am pleased to share with you all the secrets of this simple and accessible folk method of treatment. Do not forget that official science cannot always explain the effect of this or that on the human body. natural preparation. However, to deny that this interaction exists would be stupid.

If you learned from the article interesting information or read something new - share it with your friends and acquaintances on in social networks. After all, the topic of health is close to each of us. Stay safe and see you again!

Many modern biologists and doctors study with interest and put into practice plants that have healing properties. One of them is St. John's wort, or common St. John's wort. According to ancient beliefs, it is considered a remedy for ninety-nine diseases. And today we must bow low to those traditional healers who discovered the healing power of St. John's wort and preserved priceless information about its use for future generations.

What is the healing power of St. John's wort?

St. John's wort is a perennial herbaceous plant 0.3–1.0 m high with stems that grow annually. If you crush the yellow petals of its flowers in your hands, they will turn your skin purple. Since the plant contains a large amount tannins, then its taste is tart, and its smell is special, delicate. St. John's wort blooms from mid-June to early September and grows almost everywhere: in clearings, meadows, near roads, in green areas. It is at this time that it is collected. The tops of plants with branches, leaves and inflorescences have healing properties.

It is known that St. John's wort was used as a medicinal plant in ancient Greek medicine. In Russia and Ukraine they first started talking about it only at the beginning of the 19th century.

Compound

Green shoots of grass and flowers contain:

• essential oils;
• flavonoids;
• glycosides;
• saponins;
• resinous ingredients;
• vitamins C, P and PP;
• tanning compounds;
• carotene;
• antibacterial compound imanin;
• volatile phytoncides;
• yellow pigment hypericin;
• nicotinic acid.

Most useful elements found in flowers.

Unique features of the plant and its effect on the body

Such diversity chemical structure St. John's wort explains its versatile therapeutic effects. Taking alcohol and oil tinctures prepared from it enhances photosynthetic phenomena in human body. This underlies the effectiveness of the plant in the fight against malignant tumors.

Products prepared on its basis have the following effects on the body:

• astringent;
• antibacterial;
• diuretic;
• antispasmodic;
• regenerating.

St. John's wort flavonoids have a number of positive effects on the digestive and urinary systems:

• relieve spasms from the intestinal muscles;
• increase secretion gastric juice;
• restore physiological intestinal motility, thereby improving the absorption capacity of the digestive tract;
• dilate blood vessels, bile ducts and ureters;
• prevent stagnation of secretions in the gallbladder;
• prevent stone formation in the kidneys;
• facilitate the release of bile into the duodenum.

St. John's wort has immunity-boosting and hemostatic properties. Due to the fact that the plant contains vitamin P, it reduces capillary permeability and strengthens blood vessels. Preparations based on this herb improve blood circulation and nutrition of the abdominal organs, and also accelerate urine excretion.

The hypericin pigment contained in St. John's wort increases the sensitivity of a living organism to the rays of the sun and regulates important biological processes V human body. At present, the antidepressant and sedative effect of the plant is no longer in doubt.

It should be borne in mind that of all plant varieties, only St. John's wort (Hypericum perforation) has the above medicinal properties. It can be distinguished from stone, tetrahedral and other varieties of the plant by the characteristic holes on the leaves, from which the herb got its name, and by the red juice that is released when the flowers are rubbed in the hands.

Who will benefit from the plant?

Among the people, St. John's wort does not lose popularity even today. Its miraculous healing abilities are used for various diseases:

• catarrh (inflammation) of the intestines and stomach;
• diarrhea;
• stomach and duodenal ulcers;
• liver and gall bladder diseases;
• tuberculosis;
• cough of any origin;
• dropsy;
• childhood enuresis;
• heart failure;
• hypertension;
• uterine bleeding;
• cystitis;
• sciatica;
• hemorrhoids.

Its bactericidal property is used in patients with gingivitis and stomatitis, and in surgery for healing wounds and burns. In addition, St. John's wort is widely used as an appetite stimulant and fever reliever.

The healing properties of the plant have found their application in cosmetology. St. John's wort extract is included in many shampoos, creams, lotions and other face and hair care products. With the help of this plant, the problem of increased skin greasiness and... Rinsing hair with St. John's wort infusion helps get rid of dandruff and improves hair appearance and health. Cosmetics from this herb can easily be prepared at home.

St. John's wort is a tonic and depressant for insomnia, headaches and increased nervousness. Moreover, the antidepressant and calming properties of the plant’s bioflavonoids are used when prescribing its preparations for:

• itching caused by skin diseases;
• manic-depressive syndrome;
• hypochondria (feelings of anxiety, restlessness, apathy, depression);
• nervous exhaustion;
• excitement from severe pain.

Taking St. John's wort improves the mental and physical well-being of people, increases their ability to work, and normalizes night sleep and lifts your spirits.

Video: grass for 99 diseases

Contraindications and side effects

Absolute contraindications to taking St. John's wort preparations are:

• hypersensitivity to plant components;
• severe current depression;
• photodermatitis, including previous ones;
• the need to take other antidepressant medications during this period;
• pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• The patient's age is under 12 years.

Since St. John's wort constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure, people suffering from hypertension, it should be taken with great caution and only as part of herbal preparations. That is, so that other components balance its hypertensive effect.

The following adverse reactions from consuming St. John's wort are possible, but not necessary:

• dry mouth;
• nausea;
• pain in the stomach;
• intestinal disorders;
• bloating.

In people prone to allergies, the use of St. John's wort can cause corresponding reactions of the skin and mucous membranes:

• rash;
• eczema;
• areas of pigmentation;
• sensitivity to dog and cat hair;
• intolerance sunlight(mainly in HIV-infected patients).

St. John's wort is low toxic, but in the medical literature one can find suggestions that when used for a long time in large doses has a detrimental effect on human germ cells. There are references to the possibility of reducing potency in men.

Drug interactions

Preparations based on St. John's wort can reduce the effect of anticoagulants containing as the main active substance warfarin (eg Marevana). It is not recommended to use them simultaneously with any products based on the plant in question, since when using this combination, the activation of the action of warfarin can continue for 14 days after stopping the use of drugs containing St. John's wort. If this combination is prescribed, the patient should undergo regular laboratory monitoring of blood clotting parameters.

When taken together with sulfonamides, tetracyclines, quinolones, Piroxicam and diuretics, products with St. John's wort can enhance their photosensitizing effect. In other words, increase the sensitivity of human skin to sunlight.

St. John's wort prolongs narcotic sleep, into which the patient is medicated to general anesthesia, but shortens that caused by some sleeping pills(barbiturates). At simultaneous administration with drugs that lower blood pressure (for example, Reserpine), the plant can negate their hypotensive effect. It also reduces the effectiveness of cardiac glycosides (Digoxin).

Women taking oral contraceptives (OCs) should be aware that the simultaneous use of St. John's wort preparations increases the likelihood of intermenstrual bleeding.

Despite the fact that this medicinal plant increases the effectiveness of other antidepressants (for example, Nefazodone, Paroxetine, Sertraline); when taken in parallel with them, the risk of developing hypertensive crises. Therefore, the interval between treatment cycles with other sedatives and St. John's wort preparations should be at least 2 weeks.

This herb should not be used together with medications prescribed for AIDS and cytostatics. In all cases where the patient takes anyothermedications, before using St. John's wort, he should consult a doctor.

Overdose

When excessive long-term use remedies from St. John's wort, oversaturation of the body may occur, which manifests itself in allergic reactions. If skin irritation occurs, avoid exposure to the sun for 10–15 days. It is better to prevent ultraviolet rays from coming into contact with the skin during the entire treatment period.

If consumed too large quantity products with St. John's wort sometimes develops Iron-deficiency anemia(anemia). The central nervous system may respond to an overdose with headache, increased fatigue, and anxiety. Therefore, every 2-3 months you need to take 2-3 week breaks in taking medications from this plant.

Collection and storage rules

St. John's wort herb is harvested during the flowering period, before the first unripe fruits have appeared. When collecting, cut off the upper part of the plant with flowers about 20 cm long. Medicinal raw materials are dried in cool, shaded, well-ventilated rooms - under canopies or in attics. Or the grass is tied in bunches and hung in the courtyards of private houses (not in the sun!).

St. John's wort has another name - “herb of John the Baptist.” It appeared in Western Europe due to the fact that the most magnificent flowering of the plant was observed on June 24. Exactly then Catholic Church celebrates the birth of the said saint. There is a belief that if you put a sprig of St. John's wort under your pillow that night, John the Baptist will appear in a dream, bless you and protect you from harm this year.

Video: how to properly collect and store St. John's wort

Treatment with St. John's wort

There is no need to be afraid that a few days after the start of treatment with St. John's wort, the underlying disease may worsen for a short time - this is normal. During this period, a kind of “restructuring” occurs in the body due to the action healing powers plants. But if the drug clearly does not help, you need to stop taking it and think about other methods of therapy.

St. John's wort in traditional medicine

Compared with the treatment of psychological and nervous disorders with traditional medications products with St. John's wort do not cause addiction to them and correct selection doses have virtually no undesirable effects.

In the pharmacy network you can choose any of the sedative medications containing this herb:

• Arfazetine;
• Doppelhertz;
• Life;
• Herbion Hypericum;

In some cases, doctors prescribe St. John's wort preparations for peripheral circulation disorders accompanied by congestion.

In official medicine, herbs or tinctures of St. John's wort, plant oil, and also antibacterial drugs Imanin and Novoimanin. The latter are prescribed for external treatment and pain relief purulent wounds, burns, phlegmon, boils and carbuncles, cracked nipples, tonsillitis and sinusitis.

They are also used in the treatment of:

• diseases of the mouth and throat;
• stagnation of bile in the gallbladder;
• cholecystitis;
• cholelithiasis and urolithiasis;
• inflammatory processes in the stomach and intestines;
• hepatitis;
• functional kidney disorders.

In dentistry, St. John's wort is used as an anti-inflammatory and astringent.

Photo gallery: pharmaceutical preparations containing St. John's wort

Novo-Passit - sedative with components of plant origin, one of which is St. John's wort Brusniver - herbal remedy, which has a diuretic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect Negrustin - herbal preparation with antidepressant activity Prostanorm is a herbal medicine used for diseases prostate gland Sibektan is a herbal medicine with hepatoprotective and choleretic effects

St. John's wort and traditional medicine

From this magical herb traditional healers a great variety of drugs were invented.

Alcohol tincture

For rheumatic disorders, alcohol tincture of St. John's wort is used as an external pain reliever. It is used to rub the joints and lower back. It is prepared like this:

1. Pour 20 g of plant material into 100 ml of 70% alcohol.
2. Leave for 14 days.
3. Then filter and squeeze out the product, pour it into a dark glass container and store in a cool, dry place.

Alcohol tincture of St. John's wort can be lubricated:

• infected wounds;
• abscesses;
• shells;
• boils;
• trophic ulcers;
• burns.

It increases the regenerative properties of tissues.

Video: how to prepare medicinal St. John's wort tincture

For stomach ulcers, gallbladder diseases and kidney stones, take orally St. John's wort oil. It can serve as a pain reliever and dewormer.

You need to take it 1-2 tsp. half an hour before meals or 3 hours after meals, 2-3 times a day for 1-2 months.

St. John's wort oil is also used for extensive burns - it will help even if more than 60% of the body surface is affected. Lotions soaked in it are applied to the affected areas of the skin. Oil compresses are made on ulcers, abscesses, festering wounds, and loosening of the oral mucosa. The product lubricates skin damage caused by animals, acne on the face, and cracked nipples in nursing women.

To prepare St. John's wort oil, you can use any of the following recipes:

• 4 tbsp. l. fresh flowers, pour 200 ml of olive oil and leave for 40 days.
• Pour 3 handfuls of St. John's wort flowers into a bottle and pour 1 liter of good vegetable oil. Close the container with a lid and place it in the sun. After 2 weeks, add 2 more handfuls of St. John's wort flowers and leave until the liquid turns dark red.
• Boil in 700 ml fresh sunflower oil 100 g of St. John's wort herb along with inflorescences. The liquid should simmer quietly for about half an hour. After cooling, filter.
• Infuse a third of a glass of crushed fresh St. John's wort leaves and inflorescences in a glass of any vegetable oil for 20 days. Sunflower, flaxseed, almond or olive are best suited. Squeeze and strain.
• Let a liter jar of crushed plant herbs steep together with flowers in a mixture of 0.4 liters of white wine with 0.8 liters of vegetable oil for 5 days. Then boil the product for 12 minutes so that the alcohol evaporates.

St. John's wort oil must be poured into a dark glass container and kept in the refrigerator.

Video: St. John's wort oil is an excellent antidepressant

St. John's wort tea

St. John's wort tea, drunk daily in large quantities (at least 3-4 cups), heals chronic inflammation in the intestines and diarrhea. To prepare it, take 1 tbsp for 1 cup of boiling water. l. flowers or leaves of a plant. You can use St. John's wort in half with yarrow. Drink 2 glasses of this tea after each meal for 2-3 months.

Healing tea with St. John's wort also works well for nervous exhaustion, emotional fatigue, mental stress, sleep disorders. It will also help students during exam sessions.

Here is another recipe for soothing tea made from a mixture of herbs and St. John's wort:

1. Take the herb St. John's wort, angelica root and yarrow flowers in equal quantities.
2. 1 tbsp. l. Pour a glass of boiling water over the crushed raw materials.
3. Let it sit for a while.
4. Drink at night.

St. John's wort in this combination treats insomnia, regenerates and strengthens the nervous system.

In the same way, to calm down, you can drink tea made from St. John's wort, lemon balm and linden flowers.

Decoctions

St. John's wort decoction is used for vaginal douching for inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs. To do this, prepare a mixture of the following plants, taken equally:

• tea rose petals;
• flax seeds;
• marigold flowers;
• marshmallow root;
• peppermint herbs;
• nettle root;
• oak bark;
• shepherd's purse herbs;
• larkspur root;
• willow bark;
• caraway flowers;
• mistletoe herb.

Cook 5-6 tbsp. l. this mixture in 3 liters of water for half an hour.

You can prepare the product in another way:

1. 4 tbsp. l. St. John's wort herb pour 0.5 liters of boiling water.
2. Cover the dish with a lid and simmer in a water bath for 30 minutes.
3. Then let stand for 15 minutes and strain.
4. Rinse the vagina with warm broth twice a day: in the morning after waking up and in the evening before bed.

You can prepare a decoction for douching only from St. John's wort. For this purpose, 3 tbsp. l. herbs with flowers need to be boiled for 20 minutes in 2 liters of water.

Wounds are washed with a decoction of St. John's wort, and bandages moistened with it are applied to them. For speedy healing, the drug is also taken orally. In addition, a decoction of St. John's wort is drunk as a choleretic and anti-inflammatory medicine for cholangitis and cholecystitis.

Ointment

To eliminate adenoids and nasopharyngeal polyps, prepare St. John's wort ointment:

1. Grind the dry herb of the plant to a powder.
2. Mix 1 tsp. St. John's wort powder with 3 tsp. unsalted butter.
3. Add celandine juice to the resulting composition (5 drops of juice per 1 teaspoon of ointment).
4. Pour the product into a dark glass bottle.
5. Shake the vessel until an emulsion forms inside it.

Place this medicine 2 drops into each nasal passage 3-4 times a day.

In the same way, you can make an ointment to treat cracked nipples. To do this, mix 1 tbsp. l. St. John's wort decoction with 2 tbsp. l. softened butter.

Infusions

Strong infusions of St. John's wort are very effective for curing gastrointestinal and colds. You can easily prepare them yourself for oral administration, for gargling and for rinsing the nasal passages. To do this, pour 10 g of the plant into 100 ml of boiling water. Drink 1 tbsp. l. four times a day. Pass the infusion through the nose for a runny nose in the morning and at night.

When you have a cold, it is useful to inhale dry powder of St. John's wort herb.

St. John's wort belongs to the genus of flowering plants and the family Hypericaceae or St. John's wort. It grows in the Northern Hemisphere in temperate climates, in the southern regions under the tropics, especially the Mediterranean. Favorite places are clearings, clearings, dry meadows.

The plant has a tetrahedral stem up to 70 cm high, entire sessile or short-stalked leaves, single or numerous flowers collected in semi-umbrellas and inflorescences. The fruit is a leathery capsule that breaks into 3-5 parts after ripening. Flowering will occur in June-August. Numerous seeds are small, oval or cylindrical.

Two types of plants are used in medicine: St. John's wort and tetrahedral. St. John's wort extract is an integral component of medicines official medicine, such as Negrustin, Deprim and others used for treatment depressive states. There are many described in folk medicine effective recipes with a plant. At the same time, we must not forget that the beneficial properties of St. John's wort can be harmful if you have contraindications to the use of this herbal medicine.

Compound

The beneficial properties of St. John's wort are due to its chemical composition:

The plant also contains essential oil, resinous substances and bitterness.

Medicinal properties of St. John's wort herb

• antiseptic
• antibacterial
• sedative, antidepressant
• wound healing
• choleretic, diuretic
• painkiller
• astringent
• antirheumatic
• regenerating
• anthelmintic (anthelminthic).

Indications for use of St. John's wort herb

• Heart diseases (see);
• Rheumatism (see);
• Muscle and joint pain (see);
• Flu and ARVI;
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, especially the liver and stomach;
• Bladder pathologies;
• Hemorrhoids (see);
• Inflammatory processes of the female genital organs;
• Depressive states (see);
• Fading skin;
• Seborrhea, increased oily skin (see);
• Acne (see);
• Alopecia (see);
• Cracks in the skin (see).

Traditional medicine recipes

St. John's wort is used in the form of tincture, infusion, decoction and tea, as well as oil, which can be easily prepared at home. The raw material is dried plant herbs, purchased at a pharmacy or prepared independently.

Infusion

To prepare it, take 30 grams of fresh crushed St. John's wort or 15 grams of dry raw materials, pour 200 ml of boiling water and leave for 4 hours in the dark, filter.

• Take 15 ml before meals three times a day for gastritis, increased acidity gastric juice, cystitis, colitis, cholelithiasis, hypotension, menstrual pain and diseases of the female genital area.
• To treat liver and gall bladder diseases, take 0.5 cups of infusion on an empty stomach daily for 7 days. You can have breakfast in half an hour. Then during the day take 2 tbsp. infusion after each meal.
• For treatment inflammatory diseases The oral cavity is rinsed with St. John's wort infusion.
• To eliminate inflammation on the skin, vitiligo, apply daily lotions with infusion.
• Treatment of acne involves daily, morning and evening washing with infusion.
• To treat alopecia, take one third of a glass of infusion 10 minutes before meals, twice a day for 14 days.
• Non-infectious skin diseases in children go away faster if you bathe children in a bath with St. John's wort infusion.

Decoction

One and a half tablespoons of St. John's wort herb is poured into a glass of hot water and the mixture is heated in a water bath for about half an hour, stirring, then filtered. The scheme and scope of application are similar to those of the infusion.

• The decoction, in addition to the above pathologies, helps in complex therapy intestinal infections.
• Used as a liquid for rinsing the sinuses at least 3 times a day.
• For this purpose, make fifteen-minute foot baths at the rate of 1 liter of decoction per 3 liters of water.
• To improve skin tone, eliminate fine wrinkles The broth is frozen in ice cube trays and tonic wipes are made in the morning and evening before applying the main treatment.
• It is used if a person wants to get rid of cravings for alcohol. Strong decoction - 4 tbsp. dry St. John's wort is poured into 400 ml of boiling water and left for half an hour in a water bath, cooled. Take 2 tbsp. morning and evening before meals for at least 14 days.

Tincture

One part of the dry herb is poured with seven parts of vodka or diluted medical alcohol and left for three days in a dark place. Used mixed with water: 1 tsp. tinctures are diluted in 50 ml of water. Scope of application: mouth rinse, inhalation, warming compress.

Tea

Pour no more than 1 tsp into a regular teapot. dry herbs and pour 1 cup of boiling water. To improve the taste, you can add dry berries, linden blossom, jam or honey. Tea is used as prophylactic, as well as strengthening the immune system during its seasonal decline or after illness.

St. John's wort oil

There are several recipes for making oil:

• For inflammation of the oral mucosa

Dried herbs in a ratio of 1:1.5 are infused in vegetable oil for about 5 days. The finished product is used to treat diseases of the oral mucosa, including bacterial infections(gingivitis, stomatitis, tonsillitis).

• For gastrointestinal diseases

Crush fresh St. John's wort flowers (30 g) in a mortar, pour in 2 cups of olive oil, stir and pour into a light glass container, leave it for 5 days in a warm place without covering (for fermentation), stirring the contents periodically. Then cover with a lid and leave in the sun for 5 weeks. By week 6, the oil should turn bright red. The aqueous layer should be separated and poured into a dark glass container. St. John's wort oil is taken orally, 1 teaspoon morning and evening, for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers).

• For external use

One part of dried flowers is infused in two parts of vegetable oil (olive, sunflower, almond) for 3 weeks. The finished oil is used to prepare oil compresses for healing, ulcers, burns or wounds at the regeneration stage, for lumbago (lumbago), rheumatoid arthritis, for insect bites, as well as for rejuvenating aging facial skin as weekly care.

One part of the evaporated extract or dry powder of St. John's wort is mixed with two parts of petroleum jelly. Used for rubbing in the treatment of sprains, bruises, myalgia.

Treatment with St. John's wort - official medicine

St. John's wort is used as a herbal medicine from the dry herb of the plant, and also acts as a component of medicines. Indications for the use of dry herb St. John's wort include the following pathologies:

• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and biliary tract (dyskinesia, increased gas formation, hepatitis, cholecystitis, diarrhea);
• inflammatory processes of the oral mucosa (pharyngitis, sore throat, stomatitis, gingivitis);
• depressive conditions - numerous studies have confirmed the high and more stable effectiveness of St. John's wort preparations for treatment depressive disorders in comparison with the effect of traditional antidepressants of synthetic origin (Imipramine, Amitriptyline).

Dietary supplements, herbal medicines based on St. John's wort raw materials for the treatment of depressive conditions and anxiety disorders improve mood and eliminate anxiety without causing drowsiness and lethargy, i.e. can be used when precise work and driving is necessary.

Negrustin	Gelarium Hypericum	Deprim, Deprim Forte 170-200 rub.	Optimistin 150 rub.	Neuroplant 250 rub.	Doppelhertz Nervotonic 400 rub.

Contraindications to the use of St. John's wort

• Pregnancy and lactation - it is strictly prohibited to use the plant for internal use. Moreover, during these periods, local or external use of plant preparations is permissible.
• Photosensitivity - avoid UV radiation (exposure to the sun, solarium, UV lamps) for 2 weeks (see).
• Organ transplantation - cannot be used by both those planning a transplant and those who have undergone it.
• Taking oral contraceptives (see).
• Serious mental illness, including severe course depression.
• Severe hypertension.
• Children's age - up to 12 years.

Side effects

Any medicinal plant has a complex chemical composition, contains microdoses of toxic and harmful substances that negatively affect the liver and the body as a whole, so overdose and long-term treatment are not permissible. The following side effects may develop:

• Allergic reactions: rash, skin itching, eczema, increased sensitization to animal hair, skin pigmentation, photosensitivity.
• From the central nervous system: headache, increased fatigue, anxiety.
• Digestive system: abdominal pain, nausea, dry mouth, constipation or diarrhea, loss of appetite, anorexia.
• Blood-forming organs: Iron-deficiency anemia.
• Despite the mild toxicity of St. John's wort preparations, long-term use(more than 1 month) can lead to pain in the liver and bitterness in the mouth.
• St. John's wort also negatively affects potency in men and leads to its decrease with prolonged use.

Drug interactions

• Antidepressants- at joint use with citalopram, fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine aggravates hemolytic reactions, as well as serotonin syndrome - (irritability, anxiety, nausea, tremor, increased sweating, dizziness, headache), leading to exacerbation of the clinic, migraine, hallucinations, convulsions, even coma. Therefore, the interval between taking these drugs and St. John's wort should be more than 2 weeks.
• Antibiotics – accelerate the elimination of the drug from the body and weaken the antimicrobial effect.
• Anticoagulants – reduced effect, increases the risk of bleeding.
• Cyclosporine - reduces its concentration in the blood.
• Cardiac glycosides– weakening of effectiveness, reduces the concentration of digoxin in the blood.
• The drug "Indinavir", used for the treatment of HIV-infected people - a 2-fold decrease in blood concentration.
• Anesthetics – their effect increases or decreases. Shortens sleep caused by drugs - barbiturates, and lengthens sleep caused by narcotic analgesics and drugs for general anesthesia.
• Theophylline - increases the rate of metabolism of theophylline.
• St. John's wort enhances the photosensitizing effect of drugs such as quinolones, thiazide diuretics, tetracyclines, sulfonamides, piroxicam, etc.

Thus, St. John's wort cannot be combined with these groups of drugs.

Preparation and storage of St. John's wort

The optimal time for harvesting raw materials is the very beginning of flowering. The stems are cut close to the ground, tied into small bunches and hung to dry in the shade. St. John's wort can be stored in cardboard boxes or in paper or fabric bags up to 24 months.

St. John's wort is a herbaceous plant with eye-catching yellow flowers that are ubiquitous. He doesn't need special conditions for growth. It can be found in fields, meadows and near stakes, lakes, and rivers. The St. John's wort plant is widely used in traditional medicine recipes for the treatment and prevention of various diseases.

Composition of medicinal herb

The chemical structure of the plant is varied and includes the following substances:

• A complex of essential vitamins, including carotene, tocopherols, B vitamins and rutin.
• Flavonoids and phytoncides.
• Micro and macroelements (potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc).
• Tannins.
• Essential oils and sugars.

Diversity useful microelements determines the medicinal properties of St. John's wort; this plant also has contraindications. Especially if you neglect the rules of administration and the permissible dose.

Indications for use of St. John's wort herb

The plant is used as medicine during the flowering period. Since ancient times, the herb has been used to create medicinal drinks that treat flu, colds, rheumatism, headaches and gastrointestinal diseases. When to collect St. John's wort flowers? Typically, the grass matures from June to August. During this period, you can collect it for subsequent drying and use.

Women used St. John's wort for inflammation of the genital organs. The main healing qualities include:

St. John's wort flowers are widely used in the manufacture of cosmetics that are used to treat acne, reduce the production of subcutaneous fat, pustular lesions of the skin, as well as to preserve youth and freshness of the skin.

What to dry from St. John's wort: leaves or flowers? The choice depends on how you want to use the culture. Traditional medicine mainly uses the inflorescences of the plant to treat the following pathologies:

• Gastritis.
• Heartburn.
• Prostatitis.
• Inflammation of the gallbladder.
• Depressive state.
• Gynecological diseases.
• Tuberculosis and bronchitis.
• Sinusitis.
• Alcoholism.
• Hepatitis.
• Burn.
• Urinary incontinence in a child.

St. John's wort has a huge amount beneficial properties and cures serious pathologies.

Collection secrets

The time for harvesting St. John's wort is determined according to its flowering period. Due to the wide distribution of the plant, the period is determined specifically, depending on the place of growth.

The flowering part of the plant is harvested. The cut is made at a distance of 10-12 cm from the top of the St. John's wort. The more inflorescences, the better.

When does St. John's wort bloom? The best time for harvesting usually begins in the second ten days of July. The most favorable places for collecting plants are desert edges and meadows. Experts do not recommend collecting St. John's wort near highways and cities.

How to dry St. John's wort flowers? This is done in two ways. After collection, the required amount of St. John's wort is laid out on a straight surface for drying (a baking tray is used for this purpose).

The second method is as follows: the bundles are tied up in a suspended state.

Do not expose the plant to direct sunlight. In addition, during drying, the plants must have access to fresh air. Otherwise they may fight.

After drying, St. John's wort is stored as follows:

• hanging in small bunches;
• crushing and packaging of raw materials in paper bags or glass jars.

Thus, the plant can be stored for about 3 years if moisture is prevented. A dry and dark place is suitable for this.

Another type of storage is St. John's wort oil. This method is convenient and allows you to preserve the beneficial qualities of the plant for a long time.

How to make oil from St. John's wort flowers

To prepare, you need to take 100 g of inflorescences and leaves of the plant, chop thoroughly. Pour 200 ml of olive or sunflower oil into the prepared raw materials. It should brew for a month. When the oil is ready, be sure to strain it and use it as intended.

The recipe is considered basic, but there is another way to prepare the product. Take 500 g of fresh plant flowers and add a liter of olive oil and 500 ml of dry white wine. All components are thoroughly mixed and left to brew for 30 days. Cover the container with a napkin. While the oil is infused, alcohol will come out. During this period of time, all the beneficial properties of the plant will be transferred into the mixture, and you can begin to use the remedy for the treatment of various pathologies.

Can be used for various diseases:

• Neuralgic and muscle pain.
• Impaired blood circulation.
• Skin diseases.
• Spasms and convulsions.

In folk medicine, St. John's wort oil is used as a remedy for:

• healing of wounds, abscesses and burns;
• treatment of inflammation of the skin and oral cavity (herpes, allergies);
• for neuralgic pathologies;
• for ulcers.

For the treatment of stomach ulcers, it can be used 1 tbsp. spoon before meals for 30 days.

Healing tea from St. John's wort

There are recipes that can be used at home to treat many diseases.

How to make tea from St. John's wort flowers? Proper preparation of the drink involves brewing it in a porcelain teapot, which is first scalded with boiling water. Next, you should take 10 g of dried flowers of the plant and pour a glass of boiling water. Let sit for a few minutes and drink fresh. The drink is a tonic. It is drunk for colds, sleep disorders, anxiety and depression.

Medicinal tea during colds is prepared as follows:

1. Brew 2.5 tablespoons of St. John's wort flowers and 3 tablespoons of cranberries in 0.3 liters of boiling water. Leave to infuse overnight.
2. Drink the prepared drink over the next day.

To prepare tonic tea, you need to take St. John's wort and rose hips (2 tablespoons) and 1 teaspoon of oregano in equal proportions. Brew and leave for a long time (5-7 hours). The drink must be consumed several times a day to improve the health of the body.

For a refreshing tea, take 20 g of St. John's wort, a currant leaf and pour a glass of boiling water. Brew for 20 minutes. Drink as a beverage.

Medicines from St. John's wort for home use

A decoction of the plant is prepared at the rate of 30 g of dried herb, which is poured with 0.5 liters of water. Place the product on low heat and simmer for half an hour. Then give the broth time to brew. Next, it must be strained and filtered. The result is a reddish-brown liquid that completely retains all the beneficial properties of St. John's wort. The decoction can be used internally and externally as lotions and compresses.

An infusion of dry or fresh herbs will be ready after 4-6 hours have passed since it was brewed. A rich and aromatic liquid is used for the treatment of gastritis, colitis, cholelithiasis and inflammation of the genitourinary tract. Using the infusion to gargle the throat and mouth for stomatitis helps a lot. As a lotion, the product is used for mosquito bites, skin irritation, abscesses and wounds of various types.

How to brew St. John's wort flowers? The duration of the process largely depends on what needs to be prepared as tea, infusion or decoction.

In some cases, a tincture is prepared from dried St. John's wort herb. For 10 g of raw material, take 7 parts of alcohol or 10 parts of vodka. The product is infused in a glass container for 3 days. Alcohol tincture is used as an analgesic, warming and anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of muscle and joint pain.

Another method of using the plant is to prepare St. John's wort flower extract. According to the recipe, 50 g of herb must be filled with the same amount of alcohol. If vodka is used to prepare the extract, then take 2 times more of it. It helps in the treatment of abscesses and ulcers. To treat back pain, you need to use lotions from the extract.

To rinse the mouth, add a few drops of the product to a glass of water. The procedure will get rid of unpleasant odor and strengthen the gums.

An effective ointment with St. John's wort is used to treat bruises, cuts and fractures. To prepare it, take 20-30 g of raw materials, crushed to a powder state. Add a little pork fat and mix well. The ointment should be stored in a cool place, preferably in the refrigerator.

There is a recipe where Vaseline or baby cream is used instead of pork fat. The herb powder is mixed with a fatty base in a 1:1 ratio. Store in the refrigerator. Directions for use: apply to the affected area 3 times a day until pain decreases.

Cosmetics recipes

St. John's wort flowers or leaves can be used not only for pharmaceutical purposes, but also prepared from these components wonderful masks and decoctions for the face yourself. After all, the plant can help a woman achieve beautiful and healthy skin.

The possibilities of St. John's wort are so wide that they allow it to be used in various beauty recipes.

The plant is purchased not only at the pharmacy, but also collected independently. At home, having only available means, you can prepare healing decoctions, infusions, masks and face creams.

Effective products for the care of problem, combination or inflammatory skin:

• To work sebaceous glands has returned to normal, you should use St. John's wort tincture. It is prepared from 2 tablespoons of herbs and 250 ml of boiling water. After 30 minutes, the mixture is ready, filter it and wipe your face. Within a week the skin will become drier and go away inflammatory process. To maintain the positive effect, you need to wipe your face morning and evening for 30 days.
• To get rid of oily shine and enlarged pores, you should use an infusion of this plant, frozen in the form of cubes. The decoction is made in accordance with the previous recipe and poured into special forms. They are then placed in the refrigerator until frozen. Use the cubes daily after washing your face in the evening, rubbing them skin covering. Regular use will tighten pores and rejuvenate the skin. In addition to the results obtained, the appearance of acne will decrease, fine wrinkles will smooth out, and the facial contour will be tightened. To enhance the effect, you can add eucalyptus and sage herbs to the cubes.
• For dry skin, you can prepare a cream. You need to take 30 g of the plant and butter, a few drops of the juice of one lemon, and then mix. Apply to facial skin before bed.
• Used for dry skin nourishing mask, which includes 10 g of St. John's wort, 1 yolk and several spoons carrot juice. The product is applied to a cleansed face and left for a quarter of an hour. Then the mask is removed and a nourishing cream is applied.
• To prepare anti-wrinkle lotion, you need to take a glass of infusion and a tablespoon of vodka. After washing, you should wipe the skin of the face, décolleté and neck with the resulting product.

• Heel bath. Pour 100 g of dry plant with a liter of hot water. Boil for 5 minutes. Pour the broth into a convenient container and begin bathing procedures for your feet.

Regular use of plant-based cosmetics will make your facial skin glowing and healthy.

The healing properties of St. John's wort for the female body

In gynecology, the herb has long been used to treat erosions and disorders menstrual cycle. During the treatment period, it is recommended to abstain from sexual activity.

St. John's wort is used for the following diseases:

• Failure of the menstrual cycle. Drink 750 ml per day as tea for 90 days.
• Cervical erosion. A glass of dried St. John's wort flowers is dried in a frying pan or baking tray. Then it is crushed into powder and filled with vegetable oil. Infuse, shaking occasionally, for 12 days. Strain and insert tampons soaked in the broth into the vagina. Treatment is carried out until complete recovery.
• Mastopathy. 20 g of St. John's wort is poured into 500 ml of boiling water. Cook until the volume of liquid is reduced by 2 times. Take 30 ml three times a day after meals. Treatment is continued for a month. Take a break for 14 days. If necessary, continue taking the infusion.

St. John's wort for the treatment of various pathologies in women can reduce the symptoms of the disease, provided that it is taken correctly and for the required duration of the course.

St. John's wort for men

The plant has tonic properties, and it can increase the sexual activity of the stronger sex. The remedy is especially useful for those whose erections have decreased as a result of chronic fatigue or stressful situations.

To increase potency, use the following recipes:

• Pour 10 g of herb into a glass of hot water and leave for half an hour. Filter the infusion and consume 50 ml no more than 3 times a day until the condition improves. The course of therapy is at least 1 month.
• St. John's wort extract. Mix 40 g of herb with 100 g of vodka. Close tightly and place in a dark place. Drink the resulting product 3 times a day, 40 drops. The course of treatment should be no more than 30 days.
• St. John's wort decoction. To prepare the product, mix 10 g of herb with a glass of water. Put on fire and boil. Then cook the mixture in a water bath for half an hour. Take 50 ml at least half an hour before meals. The course of therapy is 30 days.

When conducting correct procedure Preparation of medicines based on St. John's wort can achieve the return of potency and sexual activity in men.

What are the contraindications for St. John's wort?

Despite many beneficial qualities, the plant is toxic. The herb St. John's wort has medicinal properties and contraindications. If you take it for a long time and uncontrollably, it can cause negative consequences: a bitter taste in the mouth, an increase in the size of the liver, and more.

The use of medicines is prohibited in the following conditions:

• During pregnancy and lactation, it is prohibited to take preparations based on St. John's wort. After all, the remedy can worsen taste qualities breast milk. At the same time, washing with a decoction of the plant and using ointments is allowed during the entire period of bearing a child.
• At oncological diseases genital area.
• At chronic diseases liver and kidneys.
• At excessive consumption alcohol.

When using products based on St. John's wort, you must follow the rules for taking them:

• During the period of use of plant-based preparations, there is an increase in sensitivity to direct sunlight. At this time, it is better to avoid contact with ultraviolet radiation on the skin.
• For arterial hypertension, it is not recommended to use products containing St. John's wort, due to its ability to increase blood pressure.
• It is prohibited to use plant-based preparations for people who have undergone organ transplant surgery. St. John's wort can reject a foreign body.
• The herb reduces the effect of contraceptives.
• A long period of use of St. John's wort by men leads to a weakening of potency.
• It is not recommended to use preparations containing St. John's wort for more than 4 weeks. This can cause the liver to become enlarged.
• The plant can provoke the production of male hormones in the body, which can cause menstrual irregularities and facial hair growth for women.
• It is prohibited to use St. John's wort flowers together with antibiotics. The plant promotes the rapid removal of the drug from the body, which will lead to a decrease in the effect and the treatment will not give a positive result.

Before you start taking the drug, you should consult a specialist about the optimal dose and duration of therapy.

St. John's wort - amazing plant, which has many useful properties. He is able to assist in the treatment and prevention of various diseases. It can be used not only in medicine, but also in cosmetology. At correct use If the course of treatment is followed and in the appropriate dosage, St. John's wort can only bring benefits to the body. Use plant long time not recommended to avoid negative consequences and serious complications.