Common Name: St John’s Wort
Botanical Name: Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, or St John’s Wort, is a perennial herb with bright yellow flowers, known for its medicinal properties. It is native to parts of Europe and Asia but can now be found worldwide.
Medicinally, St John’s Wort is most famous for its use in treating depression and anxiety. It has been extensively studied and is commonly available as an over-the-counter natural antidepressant.
In beauty, extracts from St John’s Wort are used in topical treatments for their anti-inflammatory and healing properties, particularly effective in treating mild skin irritations and burns.
An interesting fact about St John’s Wort is that it is named for its traditional harvesting on St John’s Day, June 24th, and is associated with a wealth of folklore, particularly in protecting against evil spirits.
Common Name: Tricolour St John’s Wort
Botanical Name: Hypericum × moserianum ‘Tricolor’
Hypericum × moserianum ‘Tricolor’, known as Tricolour St John’s Wort, is a decorative variety known for its striking variegated leaves in shades of green, pink, and cream, and its bright yellow flowers.
While not typically used medicinally, this plant adds vibrant color and texture to gardens, making it a favorite among landscape designers and garden enthusiasts.
In beauty, while the plant itself is not used, the genus Hypericum’s properties suggest potential applications in soothing skin care products.
An interesting fact about Tricolour St John’s Wort is that its colorful foliage changes with the seasons, adding year-round interest to any garden setting.