Hypericum perforatum is a perennial herb with a bright yellow five flower petals. Commonly known as St. John’s wort, after Saint John the Baptist, the species H. peroratum is referred to as ‘perforate’ St John’s wort due to the perforated appearance of the leaves when they are held up to the light. The leaves were traditionally hung above doors to ward off evil spirits. St. John’s wort has a long traditional use as a medicine, especially for wound healing, ulcers, and abdominal discomfort. Western Herbal Medicine now uses St. John’s wort to treat mild to moderate depression. A flavonoid rich extract of H. perforatum was shown to have anti oxidant activity by scavenging superoxide in a dose dependent manner. A study on the topical application of hyperforin and hypericin isolated from St. John’s

wort suggested a therapeutic potential for dermatological disorders such as skin inflammation and wounds. Specifically, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) from the skin may be reduced by hyperforin as it has a keratinocyte differentiation effect. Formulations containing two compounds or their derivatives can be applied to skin burns, scratches, and ulcers.