St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) to help create an unblemished complexion

Although this herb is mostly known for its effect in lifting depression when taken orally, it also has some very positive effects on the skin when applied topically, and will help create an unblemished complexion.

St. John's Wort extract is used in the following products: Rejuvenating Face Wash

On this page

• Cosmetic uses of St. John’s Wort
• Description of St. John’s Wort
• Compounds found in St. John’s Wort
• Cosmetic classification of St. John’s Wort

Cosmetic uses of St. John’s Wort

This herb has great value in skin care, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Although most people thought St. John's Wort as a treatment for sores and wounds was simply folklore, clinical trials showed that it not only helps wounds to heal better, ^{REF 497} but also has a great anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, ^{REF 498} helping to relieve skin inflammation. ^{REF 499}

Other tests showed that it is of help with dermatitis ^{REF 500} while also showing anti-microbial properties. ^{REF 501}

Although high oral dosage of St. John’s Wort may lead to photosensitivity – it was shown in clinical tests that very few people showed this effect when it is applied topically to the skin. ^{REF 502}

Description of St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is also known as perforate, Hypericum, perforated St John's wort and common St John's wort.

This much talked about herb is a perennial herb or shrublet with small gland-dotted leaves with bright yellow flowers with dark colored glands. The plant originated in Europe and Asia and is now naturalized to North America and Australia.

Compounds found in St. John’s Wort

It contains phenolic compounds, terpenoids, hyperforin (a phloroglucinols derivative), hypericin (a dianthrone), naphtodianthrones, flavonoids, terpene and sesquiterpene oils, phenylpropanes, biflavones, tannins, xanthones, phloroglucinols, and essential oils.

Cosmetic classification of St. John’s Wort

Hypericum perforatum extract is classified as a biological product,  functioning as a miscellaneous skin conditioning agent.