St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a medicinal plant of the genus Hypericum and belongs to the Clusiaceae family. The stem is erect, woody and branched, and reaches up to a meter in height. The leaves are oval shaped, speckled with tiny transparent glands (containing its essential oil) that, when against the light, resemble holes (which is why its botanical name means "perforated"). Its common name, St. John's wort, comes from its blooming during a period when St. John's Day is celebrated, which is June 24th. Its active ingredients, especially hypericin, promote relaxation and mental well-being, and help to balance mood.