Even with the Summer heat, it is good to get outside and enjoy what God has given us. Today my family went for a hike. The hillsides in Pennsylvania are graced with never ending slopes and shades of baby pink and ruby blooms from the Mountain Laurel in the region.
All flowers and creatures of our earth are busy in the warm weather using the sun to its fullest potential. For growth and survival.
Today I would like to introduce to those who have not heard of it, "St. Johns Wort".
St Johns Wort gets its name from being harvested on the day of the feast of St. John the Baptist, June 24. St. Johns Wort is known by many other names. Ancient Greeks and Romans hung the herb in representation of a religious icon. It was believed to ward off the evil spirits. This belief went on throughout the Early Christians and Medieval time periods.
Today, people drink St. John's Wort tea for its calming nature and for many other health benefits. There are many benefits to drinking the tea: Its antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal, and a anti-inflammatory agent. It boost the immune system. This herb helps with mental clarity in allowing a person with sleep difficulty to relax and regain a soothing sleep pattern. It is well known in helping with hormonal imbalances, and with fibromyalgia, nerve and muscle pain. This herb can be taken in tincture, pill form, or tea.
We are making Tea today.
A large bundle was gathered from our hike in the mountains today. We separated the batches into smaller quantities and hung upside down in our garage to dry. St. Johns Wort tea is very mild in taste.
We make ours in a large batch as you can see. To make a single cup: 2 tsp of dried herb in a 250ml of water. Water temperature should be at 212'F. Steeping time: 5 - 10 minutes. (The longer you steep, the darker the tea). Dosage: 2 cups a day. (morning and in the evening before bed) Sweeten as desired.
There are many places that you can research and read about St. Johns Wort. Always remember to "Never" pick anything in the woods unless you are with someone with knowledge of the plants you seek.
Disclaimer: Please consult with your Doctor before taking any products presented. Some medications have contraindications with Herbal plants and this herb may "enhance" your medications effects and dosages may need to be adjusted.