St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

• Active Compounds: Hypericin, hyperforin, flavonoids

• Analgesic Properties: St. John’s Wort is primarily known for its use in treating mood disorders like depression, but it also has analgesic properties and is useful for nerve pain, including sciatica, neuropathy, and shingles.

• Mechanism of Action: The active compounds in St. John’s Wort inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which helps with pain relief, especially neuropathic pain. It also has anti-inflammatory effects.

• Traditional Uses: Traditionally, St. John’s Wort has been used for treating nerve pain, muscle aches, and mood-related pain.

• How to Use: St. John’s Wort is commonly taken as a tea, tincture, or in capsule form. Topical oils or creams can be applied to affected areas for localized pain.