I know it may sound fairly counter-productive for skin care, but June’s Out of the Woods Apothecary Box contains one of my favorite products to prevent and ease the effects of sunburn: St. John’s Wort Oil. Though we foraged some fresh St. John’s Wort last year, the flowers remained as fresh as can be, and the benefits of this plant are immense. Though it’s often viewed as a rather aggressive weed, the flowers of St. John’s Wort offer assistance for a variety of ailments including depression, premenstrual cramps, varicose veins, wound healing, and diuretic problems.
When we first thought of creating our St. John’s Wort Oil, we were looking for something to soothe our skin after a bit too much sun. I know it sounds a bit crazy. You know, using oil before, during, and after sun exposure. But I promise; it does work. I even carry around a small bottle of it – “just because”. Our oil will help soothe your sun burn, minor scrapes and bruises, and other aches and pains. A good friend of mine even used St. John’s Wort Oil while she was pregnant because in a crazy amount of sciatica pain.
Though we’ve created an oil, you could also use St. John’s Wort in a capsule or tincture. The different methods of using St. John’s Wort each offer different positive effects. Regardless of your ailment, give it a whirl. You’ll be feeling better - mentally, physically, emotionally - in no time!
