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| extract or a placebo for four weeks. It was found that 67 percent of the treatment group improved, while only 28 percent of the placebo group showed a response. No side effects were seen. |
| The sedative and pain-relieving effects of this sunny yellow flowering herb are well-substantiated for treatment of anxiety, muscle tension and neuralgia along with sciatica and rheumatic pain. A combination tincture of equal parts St. Johnswort and skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), taken in 1/2- to 1-teaspoon doses is quite effective for tension headaches and muscle pain. This dose also helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, tension and pain associated with the menstrual cycle and PMS. St. Johnswort is also indicated for menopausal symptoms such as anxiety, mood swings and depression. |
| Because of its antiviral effects, the herb is being studied for use in HIV/AIDS. Amanda McQuade Crawford reports successful results using a tincture of Hypericum perforatum with AIDS patients. The National Cancer Institute has credited St. Johnswort as having potential cancer-fighting effects, with one study showing the ability of mice to fight off the feline leukemia virus with a single dose. |
| Topically, St. Johnswort works well as an oil or lotion for speeding the healing of strains and sprains as well as bruises, wounds and burns. St. Johnswort oil is also effective for sunburn and seems to be a fairly good sunscreen as well. |
| There is some question about the safety of St. Johnswort for internal use. If you are fair-skinned, err on the safe side and avoid taking St. Johnswort internally when you will be spending time in bright sun. |
| The fresh herb seems to produce the best results therapeutically. Extracts standardized to 0.3 percent hypericin are taken in doses of 300 mg three times a day to deliver 1 mg of hypericin daily. Make a tea by using 1 or 2 teaspoons of the dried herb. Pour 8 ounces of boiling water |
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