Organic St. John's wort herbal tea, 20 g

Discover the organic St. John's wort herbal tea from Herberry: dried flowering tops in a 20 g resealable kraft bag. Certified organic farming.

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a perennial plant of the Hypericaceae family, common in meadows, along roadsides, and in sunny forest edges throughout Europe. Its small, bright yellow flowers with black-dotted petals make it an easily recognizable plant. Used since antiquity in herbal medicine, it is now one of the most studied medicinal plants in the world.

Botanical profile

Hypericum perforatum is a perennial plant that can reach 30 to 90 cm in height. Its oval leaves have translucent dots (oil glands) visible when held up to the light, hence the name "perforatum" (perforated). The bright yellow flowers, with 5 petals edged with black dots, bloom from June to September. The plant releases a characteristic aroma when crushed.

The parts used are the flowering tops. They contain hypericin and pseudohypericin (naphthodianthrones, responsible for the red color of St. John's wort oil), hyperforin, flavonoids (rutin, quercetin, hyperoside, amentoflavone), tannins, and xanthones.

Aromatic and taste profile

St. John's wort infusion has a pale yellow to orange liquor, with coppery reflections depending on the concentration. Its aroma is herbaceous, slightly balsamic, and resinous. On the palate, the taste is bitter and astringent, with an underlying resinous note. It is an herbal tea with a strong character, often softened with a drizzle of honey.

How to prepare the infusion

• Quantity: 1 teaspoon of dried flowering tops (approximately 1 to 1.5 g) per cup
• Water: simmering, approximately 90°C
• Infusion: 8 to 10 minutes, covered
• Filter and enjoy warm
• Frequency: 1 to 2 cups per day, as a cure of 4 to 6 weeks maximum

Composition

Precautions for use

• Major drug interactions: St. John's wort is a potent enzyme inducer (CYP3A4). It can reduce the effectiveness of many medications: oral contraceptives, anticoagulants (warfarin), antiretrovirals, cyclosporine, digoxin, certain antidepressants, and anti-epileptics. If you are on medication, YOU MUST CONSULT your doctor or pharmacist before consumption
• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Not recommended for children under 18 years of age
• Photosensitization possible: avoid intense sun exposure during and after a cure (especially for people with fair skin)
• Do not combine with antidepressants (risk of serotonin syndrome)
• Do not exceed the recommended usage amounts
• Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet or medical monitoring

FAQ

Is Herberry's organic St. John's wort certified?

Yes, these St. John's wort flowering tops are certified organic, free from pesticides and synthetic chemical inputs.

Why does St. John's wort have so many drug interactions?

St. John's wort contains hyperforin, a compound that strongly activates cytochrome P450 liver enzymes (particularly CYP3A4). These enzymes metabolize many drugs, which can accelerate their breakdown and reduce their effectiveness. It is one of the best-documented and clinically most significant herbal interactions.

What is photosensitization linked to St. John's wort?

Hypericin present in the plant can increase the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. This effect is mostly documented for concentrated extracts and high doses, but as a precaution, it is recommended to avoid prolonged sun exposure while taking St. John's wort.

How should I store my bag of St. John's wort?

Store away from direct light (hypericin is photosensitive), heat, and humidity. Consume preferably within 12 months of opening.

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