St. John’s Wort for Inflammation – Benefits, Preparation & Dosage

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) as a herbal remedy for pains and inflammation:

Preparation Methods

1. St. John's Wort Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried St. John's Wort flowers in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and drink 2-3 times a day.

2. St. John's Wort Tincture: Mix 10-20 drops of St. John's Wort tincture with water and take 2-3 times a day.

3. St. John's Wort Capsules: Take 1-2 capsules containing 300-500mg of St. John's Wort extract, 2-3 times a day.

4. St. John's Wort Topical Oil: Apply a few drops of St. John's Wort oil to the affected area, 2-3 times a day.

Dosage

1. General Dosage: 300-500mg of St. John's Wort extract, 2-3 times a day.

2. Pain Relief: 500-1000mg of St. John's Wort extract, 2-3 times a day.

3. Inflammation: 500-1000mg of St. John's Wort extract, 2-3 times a day.

Precautions and Contraindications

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare professional before using St. John's Wort.

2. Medication Interactions: St. John's Wort may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants, blood thinners, and HIV medications. Consult a healthcare professional before using.

3. Surgery: Stop using St. John's Wort at least 2 weeks before surgery.

4. Photosensitivity: St. John's Wort may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Use caution when spending time outdoors.

Tips for Enhanced Absorption

1. Combine with Other Herbs: St. John's Wort pairs well with other anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric and ginger.

2. Use High-Quality Products: Choose products from reputable manufacturers to ensure potency and purity.

Important Notes

1. Standardization: Look for St. John's Wort products that are standardized to contain 0.3-0.5% hyperforin.

2. Quality: Choose high-quality St. John's Wort products from reputable manufacturers.

3. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before using St. John's Wort, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or take medications.