The herb I’m about to share has taken the herbal market by storm in recent years. Many people are turning to natural cures rather than prescription based ones that cause a lengthy list of hazardous side affects.

The good new is with a little time learning to harvest or grow your own herbs, you can create your own depression cure that is actually proven to work in clinical trials!

Please Note: It’s recommended that you follow the advice of a doctor before taking any herbs such as this since there are potential side affects.

 

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

St. John’s Wort grows all over the United States and even in Europe and can be found in other continents as well since people have been spreading it for centuries.

Identification

Habitat: It prefers dry soil and full sun.

Flowers: Yellow, five-petals, black dots. Many stamens.

Leaves: Smooth edges, hairless opposite leaves.

The flowers can be seen between June and August and are the easiest way to find this plant.

There are many uses for St. John’s Wort, including making a salve for rashes, cuts, and sores. It can also help when used topically with shingles and speed recovery.

Treating Depression

For depression treatment, you’ll want to be sure not to overdo the dose. There are a few potential side effects such as it can interfere with hormonal birth control and can increase pigmentation in your skin from sunlight.

This herb will only help with mild or moderate depression or anxiety (and not bipolar disorder). Be sure to work with a doctor for dosing tips but you’re generally looking at between 900 mg and 1200 mg. You can buy St. John’s Wort in capsule form online at Vitacost or specialty stores.

It generally will not be as effective without mindfulness practices and lifestyle changes (improved diet, exercise, sleep).

But the good new is the act of harvesting this plant will in and of itself boost your mood!

To do this, you’ll want to collect the flowers and dry them on a tray or screen. Store in a jar when completely dry. Steep 3 teaspoons of flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for about 5 minutes, covered. Drink 3 times a day for best results.

It may take 3 to 4 weeks for this remedy to take full effect.