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St John' S Wort Organic |
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St John' S Wort Organic
ST. JOHN 'S WORT - Organic
(Hypericum perforatum)
History and Folklore
St. John's Wort is one of the most important herbs in herbal medicine and herbal magic. Its flowering time coincides with the zenith of the midsummer sun and for this reason, as well as for its obviously sunny disposition it has long held a place of honour as a summer solstice herb. The radiant flowers resemble little suns, while the reddish oil resembles blood, the sacred juice of life, which in the olden days was sacrificed at summer solstice to ensure the continuity of life throughout the coming season, when the sun slowly goes into retreat. Some sprigs were cast on the ceremonial bonfires, others were blessed and hung above the stable and barn doors. It was thought that St. Johns Wort offers protection against the hazards of excessive sun, fire, lightening and droughts, and to scare off witches and demons. The Church did not manage to demonise this sacred herb and so opted to assimilate it instead. They dedicated it to St. John, whose Saints day is just after the summer solstice and is often celebrated in a similar, though perhaps tamer fashion. It became an anti-demonic herb that could ward off all evil witchcraft and daemons. St. John's Wort was also used in witch-trials to force the accused to 'speak the truth'. It was thought that in the presence of such an upright, open and radiant herb no evil could persist.
Medicinal Uses:
St. John's Wort is a tonic for the whole body. It is a gentle cleansing remedy that improves overall function and tones the vital body systems. It strengthens and regulates the metabolism and gently stimulates stomach, liver and kidneys thus helping to clear the body of metabolic waste matter. It is also an excellent nervine with a calming and sedative effect on the nervous system. It is an old remedy for headaches and migraine and can also be used to treat anxiety, melancholy and irritability, especially during menopause or in cases of PMT. It is said to be effective for bedwetting in children, especially when due to a nervous disposition or anxiety. For this purpose, 1 tablespoon of the infusion given at bedtime is said to suffice, though one may also massage a little St. John's Wort oil into the lower back. The tea is effective for indigestion, stomach catarrh and as a vermifuge. Externally a compress can be applied to wounds, cuts, bruises, varicose veins and burns.
CAUTION
St. John's Wort contains photosensitising compounds. Consult a practitioner when using this herb in conjunction with prescription drugs.
Magical Uses:
The Doctrine of Signatures identified St. John's Wort as an herb of the sun. Its sunny, upright character was thought to dispel daemons of depression and melancholy, while its punctured leaves and red oil signified its usefulness for treating wounds, cuts and burns. It is also used as a talisman to identify witches. As an amulet it was also thought to protect against wounds inflicted by sharp objects such as swords, knives and bullets, while hung above barn and stable doors at midsummer protects the cattle against the evil-doings of witches and demons.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you. Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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