Hypericum, which is also referred to as St. John’s Wort, is a genus of some 400 species of flowering plants of the hyperichceae family. The species are said to be found in the different regions of the world but grow naturally in populated continents and countries such as North America, Europe, China, India, Russia and Turkey. The growth of the plant varies from the perennial herbs 5 to 10 centimeters in height to shrubs or small trees with a maximum height of 12 meters. Its leaves are oval, which are either evergreen or falling off seasonally. The flowers are showy, have five petals and vary from pale to dark yellow in color.
Hypericum has a long history of usefulness to humans. About 2,400 years ago, it was used as a painkiller for
arthritis and as a relief for gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea, ulcers and nausea. The ancient Greeks and Romans would treat various ailments with it. As an odoriferous plant, it could ward off evil spirits. In the 1st century, it was used to treat also diarrhea and bladder problems, and to promote urine flow. The American Indians used it to treat tuberculosis and some breathing difficulties. The 19th century literature showed hypericum could treat melancholia or extreme depression, burns and wounds, and was a powerful anti-bacterial and pain-relieving plant. In contemporary times, hypericum is said to be effective in treating all types of infirmities as well as bacterial and viral infections. It can dissolve bacteria-based boils and tumors, and act as blood cleanser and blood purifier. It is also said to be useful in doing away with phlegm obstruction in the chest and lungs and in treating internal bleeding, uterine problems and irregular and painful menstruation. It is also a treatment for low back pains.
The
non-medical uses of hypericum vary. They are used as ornamental plants, with the hybrids developed and used for horticulture. For a long time, it has also been used as a fabric dye to create rich yellow, red and orange colors. The flowers that appear profusely in clusters during summer are a beauty to behold, contrary to the cultivated species that are low shrubs, with ascending and spreading branches facing towards the ground. The capular fruits are usually inconspicuous when they are ripe, except for the fruits of the berry-bearing plants which are ornamental. What is good for the plant is that it thrives in good loamy soil or sandy soil so long as it is adequately moist. If not fully exposed to the sun, it blooms longer as most of the plants prefer areas that are partly shaded. You will find that the prostrate species or those that grow towards the ground are attractive plants for rock gardens.
If you want to propagate the plant, you can do so by surface-sowing the seeds during good weather months or by cuttings, using a sandy fertilized soil. To care for the plant, frequent watering will keep the soil constantly moist but not wet, although as a hardy plant, it can tolerate wetness or dryness, wind and compressed soil. The earth surrounding the plant must be covered with compost or sawdust to maintain the soil temperature.
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