St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Common name(s):	St. John's wort, klamath weed, tipton weed, goat weed, enola weed
Family:	Hypericaceae
Origin:	Europe, western Asia, and North Africa
Parts used:	flowers
Constituents:	phenolic compounds, terpenoids, hyperforin, hypericin naphthodianthrones, phloroglucinols, and flavonoids (such as phenylpropanes, flavonol glycosides, and biflavones), essential oils
Therapeutic actions:	alterative, astringent, diuretic, nervine, vulnerary
Organs or systems affected:	bladder, heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, central nervous system
Main medicinal uses:	soothes nerves, anxiety and depression detoxifies and strengthens organs heals wounds kills bacteria and viruses improves disposition
Counterindications:	Although research shows that St. John's wort does not act as a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor, there are many reported cases of adverse effects when St. John's wort is combined with some prescriptions. Consult your doctor before taking it.

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