How to Use St. John's Wort to Treat Wounds and Bruises

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Best known for its anti-depressant qualities, St. John's Wort has been used for other purposes as well. For years, anecdotal evidence has suggested that St. John's Wort may have anti-inflammatory properties and healing properties when applied externally. For this reason, many people recommend using St. John's Wort salves, oils and lotions to treat wounds and bruises.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

St. John's Wort plant or dried herb

Benefit From St. John's Wort's Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Step 1

Drink tea made from St. John's Wort to aid in the healing of internal bruising, such as bruised ribs or a stubbed toe. You can either make a traditional infusion or make the stronger version, a decoction.
Step 2

Use the infusion to wash wounds and bruises. The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of the herb will help to treat swelling and fight off infection.
Step 3

Rub a salve or oil of St. John's Wort on the affected area daily to promote healing. To make the oil, let the flowers of the St. John's Wort plant steep in olive oil until the oil takes on a maroon color. Strain out the vegetation and use the oil.

Make a St. John's Wort Tea or Infusion

Step 1

Use the leaves and flowers of the fresh herb to make a more flavorful tea. To ensure the same potency as with the dried herb, use four times as much fresh herb.
Step 2

Steep 2 tbsp. of dried St. John's Wort in 8 oz. of boiling water for 10 to 20 minutes to allow large amounts of therapeutic phytochemicals to transfer to the water.

Make a St. John's Wort Decoction

Step 1

Place the herb in a pan with the appropriate amount of water. A good rule of thumb is to use 2 tbsp. of dried herb for every cup of water.
Step 2

Boil the water and allow it to simmer for 10 to 20 minutes. This creates a more powerful infusion than just steeping the herb, so less of the liquid will provide more benefit.