Hypericum perforatum is a herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe, Central China, Western Himalayas, and Northern Africa.
It is a member of the Hypericaceae family.
The name Hypericum comes from the Greek words hyper meaning above and eikon meaning picture, as in olden days flowers were kept above pictures, images, and windows as it was thought that the evil spirits hated this plant and it would send them off.
Hypericum perforatum typically grows in dry sandy areas and prefers woods, and sunlight and the plant bears star-shaped yellow flowers during the summer season. Each flower has five petals, and they embody small pinpoint holes hence the name perforatum. And when the flowers are crushed or rubbed they leave the surface stained red which resembles blood.
Commonly known as St. John’s wort, God’s wonder plant, Witches Herb, Devil’s Scourge, goatweed or Klamath weed.
Action
The phytochemicals in flowers and leaves are hypericin and hyperforin. They are biologically active and are responsible for their effects and actions. Many studies prove that Hyperforin inhibits the synaptic reuptake of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine, and GABA. This mechanism is mainly responsible for its antidepressant and therapeutic activity. But pure hyperforin is a more potent antidementia agent than an antidepressant.
Uses
Hypericum plant has been in use since the ages as a herbal treatment for external and internal ailments. The flowers are used to make herbal tea, a concoction to relieve ailments. Because of its antiviral action, it is used to promote wound healing.
Hypericum perforatum uses are principally for wounds, burns, inflammation, and skin disorders And also to relieve anxiety, depression, insomnia etc.
Hypericum extracts are also said to have memory-enhancing properties.
Homoeopathic perforatum 1x Therapeutic Use
In homoeopathy, the whole plant is used to make the mother tincture. Potentized medicine can be used to treat several health problems. Hypericum perforatum homeopathic medicine is an excellent injury remedy, and the main areas of action are the Cerebrospinal system, the Venous system, and the joints of the body.
It is especially used in cases of mechanical injuries to the spinal cord and the nerves at the peripheral extremities. It is said to be a nerve healer remedy. It seems to have a specific action on the spinal nervous system. When the nerves have been lacerated, wounded or torn with excruciating pain. The homeopathic hypericum perforatum benefits, as in the hallmark of it, are soothing the sharp-shooting type of pains. It can help to prevent tetanus or lockjaw disease.
Homoeopathic hypericum perforatum can ease emotional and nervous turmoil. It has been studied and confirmed its mono-therapy uses in mild to moderate depression. It has ameliorating effects in hyperhydrosis and intense headaches. The actions are favourable with a minimal rate of dropout cases.
Apart from this, it can be used for the bad effect of fright, depression following wounds, shock after an operation, melancholic state. It can also be used in cases of haemorrhoid, neuritis, tingling and burning. Next to the nerves, it affects the joints where all the articulations feel bruised. Excessive painfulness is the guiding symptom for its use. Hence, it can also take the place of Morphine after surgical operations.
