St. John's Wort - History and Folklore
Of the hundreds of species of the hypericum genus, many have been called St. John's Wort at one time or another. It is native to Europe and temperate regions of the Mediterranean and became naturalized in North America during the early nineteenth century. The herb grows from mid-June through August in northern Europe and, thus, is associated with the celebration of the birthday of John the Baptist on June 24.
Hypericumwas mentioned only rarely in Greek and Roman medical sources as a remedy for kidney stones, wound-healing, sciatica, and menstrual problems. The plant received greater attention in Europe during the Middle Ages, when it was prescribed for the classical uses as well as for bruises, diarrhea, fever, gout, and rabies.
In North America, the Cherokee recommended H. perforatum for fever, diarrhea, snakebite, skin or stomach conditions, and to induce abortions.
