ST JOHNS WORT 

Type: Leaves and flowers 

Benefits: 

Wound healing 

Immune system stimulant 

Anti-inflammatory 

Anti-depressant 

Conditions that can be treated 

AIDS  

Diarrhea 

Fever 

Snakebite 

Wounds 

Depression 

Recommended dosage and preparation 

For an infusion to boost the immune system use 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 to 15 minutes. Drink up to three times a day. 

Side effects and contradictions 

For AIDS treatment, consult a physician for help in obtal the standardized extracts or in getting enrolled in a clinical trial.  

St John's Wort should not be given to children under the age of 2. 

For older children and people over 65, start with a low concentrated mixture. 

In combination with certain foods and drugs, MAO inhibitors (present in St-John’s-Wort) may cause dangerously increased blood pressure (hypertensive crisis). Stop taking the herb and refer to a physician.  

While using St.-John's-wort, do not take amphetamines, narcotics, the amino acids tryptophan and tyrosine, diet pills, asthma inhalers, nasal decongestants, or cold or hay fever medications. In addition, don't drink beer, wine, or coffee, or eat salami, yogurt, chocolate, fava beans or smoked or pickled items.