How To Harvest St. John S Wort 8 Steps With Pictures

St. John’s Wort grows wild in fields. You can usually identify the shrubby plant by its bright, yellow flowers and tiny leaves that have small black dots. [3] X Research source

If you plan on drying the plant, you definitely want to harvest St. John’s Wort that isn’t wet. You’ll have a harder time hanging and drying the plant and it will take a lot longer to dry out completely.

Again, you’ll have an easier time of this if the flowers are totally open and dry.

Discard the stems once you’ve removed the leaves and flowers or keep the leaves and flowers on the stems if you plan on drying the plant.

Pour your red tincture through cheesecloth into a clean jar for long-term storage. You can keep it in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year. To use the tincture, squirt a few drops in your mouth from a dropper or add it to water and drink it. Many people ingest St. John’s Wort tincture for depression or to improve their mood. Although longer studies are needed, research supports St. John’s Wort’s effectiveness. [8] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

To use your salve, rub it onto minor wounds or burns. The St. John’s Wort can speed up healing time and reduce scarring. Keep in mind that serious burns or wounds require medical treatment.

Store the St. John’s Wort oil at room temperature for up to 1 year. To use your St. John’s Wort oil, massage a few drops onto slight scrapes, bruises, sunburns, or minor burns. [11] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

While it’s generally fine to drink St. John’s Wort tea, always talk with your doctor before using it if you’re also taking prescription medications.