Herb Highlights: St. John’s Wort
Introduction
What’s in a name?
According to legend, the name St. John’s Wort comes from the Christian figure John the Baptist.1 Consequently, these bright yellow flowers typically bloom around the summer solstice which is close to June 24th, St. John’s celebrated birthday. Despite the bright yellow nature of the flower, the extracted oil is red. Another possible reason for the name is the Order of St. John used the oil during the crusades. 2 Additionally, the word “wort” is simply an old English word for plant or herb.1
St. John’s Warning
St. Johns Wort can alter how pharmaceuticals work within the body.4 Specifically, it can weaken many pharmaceutical drugs including birth control, blood thinners, and heart medications. Also, the use of St. John’s Wort and certain antidepressants can cause a potentially dangerous increase in serotonin.3 Therefore, before taking St. John’s Wort, please seek professional medical counsel.
Sources
1 – Nelson’s History – Herbal Legacy
2 – Hypericum perforatum – Wikipedia
3 – St. John’s Wort and Depression – NCCIH
4 – Review of Extraction, Isolation and Biological Activities | Elsevier
