Hypericum perforatum aka Saint John's Wort

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, is a flowering plant in the Hypericaceae family and the primary species in the Hypericum genus. It is a perennial plant with small, ovate leaves and clusters of star-shaped yellow flowers measuring 1.5cm across. Native to temperate regions of Eurasia, it has also been introduced as an invasive weed in various parts of North and South America, South Africa, and Australia. It is believed to be a hybrid between H. maculatum and H. attenuatum. While it is harmful to livestock and can interact negatively with prescription drugs, it has a long history of traditional use in folk medicine and is still cultivated commercially today. The plant contains a phytochemical called hyperforin, which is currently being studied for its potential therapeutic properties. Additionally, H. perforatum is considered a weed in some of its native countries, including Turkey, Italy, France, Hungary, and Sweden, where it primarily infests poorer pastures, neglected areas, and occasionally crops. It has also become a significant invasive problem in countries such as Canada, the United States, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Reunion, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii. This invasive species spreads vegetatively and is challenging to control without causing damage to other pasture species. It is not only invasive in agricultural land but also in natural ecosystems. Despite its invasive nature, the plant has been intentionally spread to various locations as a useful medicinal or ornamental plant and unintentionally as a hitchhiker on agricultural produce.