Saint-John's Wort for Dogs

Main Constituents

• contains various compounds which include hypericin, essential oils, flavonoids, tannins, and exanthones.

Medicinal Activities

• antidepressive
• antiseptic
• antiviral
• wound healing
• immunostimulant

Common Uses in Dogs

Perhaps this herb is most famous for its antidepressive property, both in humans and animals, and is being used by some holistic veterinarians to treat separation anxiety and agressive disorders in dogs and cats.

However, this herb has a lot more to offer in terms of holistic healing.

Specifically, it is a good choice for the treatment of minor injuries such as bites and stings. It speeds up the healing process and at the same time reduces pain. For first aid purpose, a salve or tincture can be applied directly to the wound, or alternatively, the tincture can be fed internally.

Due to its antiviral property, the herb is also an excellent choice for treatment of various forms of viral infections, such as AIDS, FIV, influenza, herpes, etc.

Precautions

This herb is relatively safe except, in rare cases, some animals can develop a photosensitive rash from its use.

Availability

The dried herb and various preparations such as tea, tincture, salve, oil infusion are readily available in health food stores and herb retailers. References

J.A. Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing (Rodale Books, 2000).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).