If ever there was an herb or natural remedy that could treat almost anything, St. John’s Wort is that substance. It is has so many uses that it would be almost impossible to enumerate all of them. While almost everyone knows that is an super-effective tonic for frayed nerves, that is only ONE of the uses for which it has proven to be SAFE as well as effective. Also, it can be used topically as well as internally.
St. John’s Wort has been prescribed effectively in Europe to treat depression as well as mood swings, tremors, fatigue and insomnia. Consider the ramifications of that! Doctors in Germany are actually PRESCRIBING it over pharmaceuticals.
It is used in combinations with other herbs to treat the symptoms of colds and flues. Also, it is known to topically treat inflamed joints such as from neuralgia. It is also used in topical creams for nerve pain that is localized, and as a compound on wounds.
Women can use it to treat PMS or for emotional disturbances brought on by menopause. Even children can take a few drops of St. John’s Wort tincture at bedtime to help eliminate bed wetting. Its uses are so broad and all encompassing that everyone should ALWAYS have some on hand.
All that being said, always check with your doctor before taking St. John’s Wort supplements. There are some medications that are known to have adverse reactions when combined with it so it is in your best interest to make sure you are not taking anything that could cause complications, such as blood pressure medications and some drugs for HIV.