I came across St Johns Bush, a remarkable herb that changed my life in ways I never expected, around 4 years ago. St. John's Bush (Justicia secunda), often called "Blood Bush" in some traditions, has been my faithful companion for the past four years. Unlike its more famous family member, St. John's Wort, this lesser-known botanical treasure remains undiscovered by many, yet its potent healing properties deserve far more recognition. Today, I want to share my personal journey with this remarkable plant and the scientific backing behind its impressive benefits.
From Monthly Struggle to Balanced Well-being
My relationship with St. John's Bush began during a particularly difficult time when my hormonal fluctuations had become nearly unbearable. Every month brought the familiar dread of PMS symptoms that would disrupt my life like clockwork. After researching traditional remedies, I discovered this vibrant plant with its striking purple-tinged leaves and decided to try it as a tincture. The difference was noticeable within just two cycles—my PMS symptoms became less severe, the cramping subsided, and that persistent brain fog finally lifted. What started as an experiment became a crucial part of my wellness routine.
Finding Strength in Vulnerability
Perhaps the most profound experience with St. John's Bush came during one of the most challenging periods of my life—a miscarriage. During this emotionally and physically draining time, I have leaned heavily on this herb for support. Its blood-building properties seemed to help my body recover physically, while its hormone-balancing effects provided a gentle foundation for healing. Research supports what I experienced firsthand—studies show Justicia secunda increases levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and estrogen, potentially supporting the body's natural ability to establish hormonal balance after pregnancy loss. Through this difficult journey, I am finding that regular consumption helped reduce inflammation and provided a sense of physical restoration when I needed it most.
The Science Behind the Experience
The scientific evidence behind St. John's Bush is fascinating and continues to grow. Research confirms this plant is rich in flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic compounds with powerful antioxidant properties that combat oxidative stress throughout the body. These compounds don't just protect cells; they actively work to create an environment where healing can flourish. Beyond hormonal support, studies have revealed impressive benefits that explain why I've felt such comprehensive improvements in my health:
Key Benefits of St. John's Bush:
Blood-Building Agent: Increases hemoglobin and platelet counts while enhancing white blood cell production
Powerful Anti-inflammatory: Reduces systemic inflammation through multiple pathways
Antimicrobial Protector: Helps fight various infections through natural antimicrobial compounds
Hormonal Harmonizer: Supports FSH and estrogen levels for better reproductive health
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Protects cells from damage with potent free-radical scavenging properties
Potential Blood Sugar Support: Shows enzyme-inhibiting effects that may help regulate glucose metabolism
Beyond Hormones
What makes St. John's Bush truly special is its versatility. While my journey began with hormonal issues, I've noticed improvements in my energy levels, immune resilience, and even recovery after intense workouts. The herb's effects seem cumulative—the longer I've incorporated it into my routine, the more balanced my overall well-being has become. During seasonal transitions when everyone around me seems to catch whatever is going around, I've remained surprisingly resilient, which I attribute partly to the immunomodulatory effects documented in research studies on this plant.
Finding Your Rhythm with St. John's Bush
For anyone considering St. John's Bush, consistency is key. I take it as a tincture throughout the Luteal and Menstrual phase of my cycle each month, adjusting the dosage slightly based on where I am in my monthly rhythm. During the luteal phase, when PMS symptoms typically appear, I increase my intake slightly and have found this approach particularly effective. While research on this herb continues to evolve, my four-year relationship with it speaks to its safety for long-term use. As with any herbal remedy, I recommend starting with small doses and paying attention to how your body responds—this plant speaks differently to each person, though in my experience, it whispers rather than shouts.
Resources:
Oladele JO, Oladele OA, Ademiluyi AO, et al. "Chemoprotective and antioxidant properties of Justicia secunda Vahl leaf extract in rats exposed to sodium arsenite toxicity." Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science. 2020;10(02):062-069. https://www.ajchem-b.com/article_182234_55530d2c9954cded7b4b48d4a8eeabaf.pdf
Onoja SO, Ihejirika GC, Nwankudu ON, et al. "Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of methanolic extract of Justicia secunda Vahl leaf." Alexandria Journal of Medicine. 2017;53(3):207-213. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36830068/
Maffo T, Wafo P, Teinkela JEM, et al. "Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of Justicia secunda Vahl leaf extract using in vitro and in vivo inflammation models." Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2019;242:112037. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338192812_Evaluation_of_anti-inflammatory_activity_of_Justicia_secunda_Vahl_leaf_extract_using_in_vitro_and_in_vivo_inflammation_models
Okpara EP, Victor PD, Reuben E, et al. "Effect of ethanolic extract of Justicia secunda (blood root) leaves on reproductive organs and hormones in female Wistar rats." International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences. 2022;10(9):1884-1888.
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