St John's Wort, hypericum perforatum, a cheerful but often unwanted "weed", serves such a wide array of needs. In recent times, it has received most of its fame due to how it works with the nervous system, particularly as an antidepressant. But it has so much more going for it, so much that has been left in the history books.
In this short article I'll be featuring the topical benefits of this common herb. But note the precautions at the end of the article!
for cuts and bruising
St. John’s Wort was once a battlefield essential. Unlike Arnica, which should not be applied to open wounds, St. John’s Wort could be used directly on cuts, lacerations, and contusions. Its ability to support cell regeneration and gently numb pain made it a trusted healer for soldiers.
for nerve pain
One of St. John’s Wort’s most notable gifts is its affinity for nerve-related pain. Traditionally, it’s been used for conditions like sciatica, carpal tunnel, and other repetitive strain injuries. Many find it deeply soothing as a massage oil for back discomfort.
for post-sunburn
St. John’s Wort has been used historically to support skin recovery after sun exposure, helping to calm irritation and promote balance. See my article on a DIY Post-Sunburn Spray.
serious skin conditions
This is anecdotal, but worth sharing. My herb mentor, Rosalee de la Forêt, shared two incredible stories: In each case, individuals applied St. John’s Wort oil to areas with precancerous skin cells, and after several months, their skin showed remarkable improvement—so much so that in one case, the doctor canceled a scheduled surgery. While we can’t make medical claims, these stories speak to the plant’s longstanding reputation as a skin ally.
how we use it
We have included St John's Wort in several of our formulas. In particular, we have added to our Relief formula along with other herbs known to aid in pain relief.
Precautions
Do not ingest St John's Wort while taking drugs such as blood thinners or medications for hypertension, or any medications for that matter, as it will decrease their effectiveness!!
Although this isn't as applicable to our topical use of St John's Wort, it should be noted that it is a highly efficient hepatic herb in that it aids the liver in metabolizing toxins and drugs. In other words, it decreases the effectiveness of the drugs by increasing the liver's ability to break them down.
Take caution in the Sun!
Another thing to remember about St. John's Wort is that it's photosensitive which means do not apply to skin and spend time in the sun for up to 24 hours. May cause accelerated reddening and burning of skin.
On the other hand, if you have taken a medication and you are feeling ill effects, St John's Wort will speed its metabolism in the liver, rendering it neutral much more quickly.
Final thoughts
St John's Wort is one of those herbs which needs respect. It is fabulous for so many different things but take care and keep in mind the cautions. Goodness knows, we would never use OTC suntan lotions if we knew all the associated warnings. Just remember to use with those cautions in mind!