Saint John's wort

noun

1. 1. any of numerous shrubs or herbaceous plants of the temperate genus Hypericum, such as H. perforatum, having yellow flowers and glandular leaves: family Hypericaceae
   2. a preparation of this plant often used to treat mild depression See also rose of Sharon tutsan

Word History and Origins

Origin of Saint John's wort¹

C15: so named because it was traditionally gathered on Saint John's Eve (June 23) as a protection against evil spirits