ST. JOHN’S WORT INFUSED OIL (MACERATE)

Hypericum perforatum – olive oil infusion

 Traditional use (folk tradition)

In European and Mediterranean folk tradition, St. John’s Wort infused oil was traditionally used:

• for skin exposed to sun, wind, or physical stress,

• in cases of dry, sensitive, or stressed skin (traditional context only),

• as part of skin care routines after minor discomfort,

• for massage and body care following physical effort,

• in balms and salves intended for long-term skin care,

• for skin that required gentle, steady attention.

 Where and how it is used

• applied directly to the skin (external use only),

• as a base for balms, salves, and creams,

• for daily body care,

• after sun exposure or environmental influence.

 Detailed description

St. John’s Wort infused oil is obtained through prolonged maceration of the flowering tops in olive oil, traditionally prepared during the summer period. Olive oil serves as a carrier, extracting oil-soluble plant components over time.

In traditional herbal practice, St. John’s Wort oil was valued for external skin care. The infused oil allowed regular use in situations where more concentrated preparations were considered too strong.

 Warnings

• for external use only

• store in a cool, dark place

• perform a patch test before use

• avoid sun exposure on treated skin immediately after application

 Sources

Hoffmann, D. – Medical Herbalism
ESCOP Monographs
European herbal traditions