St. John's Wort - The Light-Bringer: Comprehensive Relief from PMS

St. John's Wort Portrait
= Hypericum perforatum
Where do we find St. John's wort?
St. John's wort grows widely in many parts of the world. Predominantly in Europe, the true St. John's wort plant, which is so valuable to us, is found mainly in temperate climates. It prefers fallow land, nutrient-poor meadows, forest edges, forest clearings, and paths. The oil-rich plant is a sun-loving plant and is often cultivated in gardens or on balconies for its medicinal properties and distinctive yellow blooms.
When can St. John's wort be collected?
As a perennial, it grows year-round, dying back above ground in the fall and sprouting fresh shoots in the spring. According to legend, its bright yellow blossoms are harvested on St. John's Day, June 24th. Regardless of the story, the shrub stays in full bloom until the end of June, and these blossoms are worth harvesting, as they contain valuable nutrients.
What other name do we know St. John’s wort by?
St. John's Wort, Common Hare, Crown of Thorns
How do we recognize St. John’s wort?
On average, the plant grows to a height of 60 to 80 cm, but can also reach up to 150 cm. With several branched stems, which can be round, angular, or winged, its leaves grow in opposite, lanceolate shapes. St. John's wort leaves often have transparent or dark spots, which are oil glands.
What special features does St. John’s wort offer us?
St. John's wort contains many tannins, essential oil, and flavonoids, including hypericin, which is considered effective against viruses. Taken internally, St. John's wort has a mood-enhancing and calming effect. High-dose St. John's wort tablets are available in pharmacies and are prescribed for winter depression and anxiety.
Use of St. John's wort for premenstrual syndrome (PMS):
St. John's wort has the potential to relieve premenstrual discomfort (PMS) due to its diverse bioactive compounds. Studies suggest that its active ingredients, particularly hyperforin and hypericin, have a positive effect on the central nervous system and can thus help regulate mood swings, irritability, and anxiety during premenstrual syndrome. In addition, antispasmodic properties have also been observed, which can help relieve physical discomfort such as menstrual cramps and tension.
Suitable for which half of the cycle?
St. John's wort is effective throughout the entire female cycle. During the first half, the follicular phase, it can help stabilize mood and promote general psychological well-being. During the luteal phase, the second half of the cycle after ovulation, when many women experience PMS symptoms, St. John's wort can be particularly helpful in relieving emotional and physical discomfort. It not only affects mood but also physical symptoms such as cramps and tension, contributing to holistic relief from premenstrual symptoms.
The Cosmos and St. John's Wort
The bright yellow flowers of St. John's wort, which stretch toward the sun on straight stems, are most rich in nutrients when the summer solstice arrives. Its sun-like nature seems to express itself in them. In stark contrast to the lush abundance of blossoms is the dry, hard wood of St. John's wort. What lies between the blossom and the shoot tends to shrink and dry out. A formative quality finds expression here, calling for order to what is too fluid.
Good to know
Collecting tip
When collecting St. John's wort flowers, it's essential to wear rubber gloves, preferably thin disposable ones. Otherwise, the pollen will linger on your fingertips and fingernails for days or weeks, staining them an unsightly yellowish-red. However, with the thin disposable gloves, you'll still retain enough dexterity to actually grasp the flowers. It's also a good idea to carefully cut the flowers off with scissors.
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