St. John's wort root

What is St. John's wort root?

St. John's wort root is the root of the St. John's wort plant (Hypericum perforatum), which is mainly found in Europe and Asia. The plant has yellow flowers that bloom in summer and exude a pleasant fragrance. The root contains various active ingredients, such as hypericin, hyperforin and flavonoids, which can have a positive effect on the nervous system and the immune system.

What are the benefits of St. John's wort root for dogs?

St. John's wort root can have various positive effects on dogs, such as

• Pain relief: the anti-inflammatory properties of St. John's wort root can provide relief for dogs with joint or muscle pain.
• Strengthening the immune system: St. John's wort root supports the immune system and can therefore contribute to your dog's general health.
• Calming and relaxation: St. John's wort root has a calming effect on the dog's nervous system and can therefore help with anxiety, stress or nervous behavior.

How do I dose St. John's wort root for my dog?

The dosage of St. John's wort root depends on the size and weight of your dog. In general, you can assume 2 to 4 mg per kilogram of body weight for dry extracts. With powdered leaves or flowers, you can administer around 1 to 2 teaspoons per 10 kilograms of body weight. However, you should always adjust the dosage to your dog's individual needs and, if in doubt, always consult a vet.

How do I use St. John's wort root for my dog?

There are various ways in which you can use St. John's wort root for your dog. Here are some creative ideas:

• You can mix St. John's wort root as a powder or extract directly into your dog's food or give it as a treat.
• You can prepare St. John's wort root as a tea and offer it to your dog lukewarm to drink or pour it over his food.
• You can buy St. John's wort root as an oil or make it yourself and gently massage your dog's ears or stomach with it.
• You can use St. John's wort root as part of a herbal mixture that is specifically tailored to your dog's needs. For example, Solli's offers a herbal blend for calming and relaxation that contains valerian, lemon balm and lavender in addition to St. John's wort.

What should I bear in mind when using St. John's wort root for my dog?

St. John's wort root may be a natural medicinal plant, but that doesn't mean it's without risks. There are a few things you should be aware of when using St. John's wort root for your dog:

• St. John's wort root can increase your dog's sensitivity to light, leading to sunburn or skin irritation. You should therefore protect your dog from direct sunlight when giving him St. John's wort root.
• St. John's wort root can influence or weaken the effect of other medications. You should therefore inform your vet if your dog is given St. John's wort root and is taking other medication at the same time.
• St. John's wort root can lead to side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite or restlessness if overdosed or used long-term. You should therefore always adjust the dosage to your dog's size and weight.