St John's Wort, also known as Hypericum perforatum, is a plant with many benefits. Native to Europe and Asia, it is now cultivated throughout the world for its medicinal properties. As a dietary supplement, St John's Wort is appreciated for its many natural virtues. Find out more about its benefits, its origin and its use as a dietary supplement in this article.
St John's Wort: benefits and properties
St John's Wort is a plant that has been known and used for thousands of years for its therapeutic properties. It contains numerous compounds with health benefits, including flavonoids, tannins and hyperforins. The plant is renowned for its mood-enhancing benefits, but it also has other interesting properties.
1. Improves mood and combats depression
St John's Wort is reputed to be effective against mild to moderate depression. In fact, this plant is thought to stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. St John's Wort may also have a regulating effect on levels of dopamine and noradrenaline, other neurotransmitters linked to depression.
2. Reduced anxiety and stress
St John's Wort is also used for its anxiolytic and relaxing properties. Studies have shown that this plant is effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, such as nervousness, irritability and sleep disorders.
3. Relief from nerve and joint pain
St John's Wort can be used to relieve various types of pain, particularly nerve and joint pain. In fact, this plant has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can relieve inflammation and chronic pain.
4. Improved digestion
Another interesting property of St John's Wort is its beneficial effect on digestion. This plant can be used to relieve digestive problems such as bloating, cramps and nausea. It can also be beneficial in stimulating the appetite and relieving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
5. Protection against infection
St John's Wort has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, helping to protect the body against infection. Studies have shown that this plant can be effective in combating bacteria, viruses and fungi, thus boosting the immune system.
St John's Wort: origin and cultivation
St John's Wort is a plant that grows wild in temperate climates. It is native to Europe and Asia, but can also be found in North Africa and North America. Today, the plant is cultivated throughout the world for its medicinal properties.
It thrives in dry, well-drained soil and prefers sunny locations. It can grow up to a metre high and has characteristic small yellow flowers.
St John's Wort is harvested in summer, when the plant is in full flower. The parts used for their medicinal properties are the flowers, leaves and flowering tops. These parts of the plant are dried and used to prepare infusions, tinctures or extracts.
It is important to note that eating wild St John's Wort can be dangerous, as it may contain toxic compounds. It is therefore advisable to buy quality St John's Wort from reliable sources.
Use as a food supplement
St John's Wort is an adaptogen, meaning that it helps the body adapt to the various stress factors it may encounter. As a dietary supplement, St John's Wort is mainly used for its anti-depressant and anti-anxiety properties.
It is available in capsule, tablet, liquid extract or tincture form. The recommended dosage varies according to the concentration of the product and the health problems targeted.
Precautions for use
Although St John's Wort is a natural food supplement, it is important to take certain precautions when using it. This plant may interact with certain drugs, such as oral contraceptives, antidepressants and anticoagulants.
In addition, St John's Wort can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches and digestive problems in some people. It is therefore advisable to consult a health professional before taking St John's Wort supplements.
In a nutshell
St John's Wort is a plant with many health benefits, including improving mood, reducing anxiety, relieving pain and boosting immunity. It is important to note that this plant should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment, but as a complement to support mental and physical health.
It is advisable to obtain quality St John's Wort from reliable sources and to consult a health professional before starting supplementation. By taking these precautions, St John's Wort can be a valuable ally in improving health and well-being naturally.
French-language scientific sources
Study into the efficacy of St John's Wort in the treatment of depression
Anxiolytic effects of St John's Wort in patients with generalised anxiety disorders
Anti-inflammatory properties of St John's Wort
Use of St John's Wort to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
