Throughout most of North America, Europe, Asia Minor, Russia, India, and China, St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) grows as a wild, yellow flowering, perennial herb that is often mistaken for a weed. It can be easily recognized by the yellow, five petaled flowers that bloom between late spring to mid summer. When held up to light, the leaves exhibit obvious translucent dots, giving them a perforated appearance.
When raised for commercial purposes, both the leaves and flowers are typically harvested in late June, dried, and converted into liquid or capsule form. The dried leaves can also be utilized to make a type of tea.
For thousands of years, St. John’s Wort has been used for a variety of medicinal purposes, but the most common use in modern society is for the natural, herbal treatment of many types of depression and for certain addictions, such as alcoholism. St. John’s Wort is continually being studied to evaluate the effectiveness of the purported mood enhancing benefits. Should you decide to use St. John’s Wort, check with your doctor before you begin taking it, and make it your business to learn as much as you can about this natural remedy for depression.
As for where to purchase St. John’s Wort, standardized extracts are generally available over the counter, although in certain countries, a prescription is required. Extracts are usually available in tablets or capsules, although you may be able ot order teabags and tinctures, as well. Naturally, there are significant differences between extracts, available strengths, and prices, and these differences can influence your personal results. So, take the time to thoroughly research the market, and don’t simply buy the first, or the cheapest, St. John’s Wort you find.