Making St. John's Wort Herbal Infused Oil
- Danielle Caster
- Aug 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 28
If you ask any herbalist to name an herb that reminds them of summertime, chances are St. John’s Wort would probably be one of the first plants they’d think of.
This quintessential summer herb practically radiates sunshine with its bright, golden-yellow flowers that bloom right around the summer solstice. And here’s a fun fact—this bloom time happens to coincide with St. John the Baptist’s birthday on June 24th, which is where the plant gets its common name: St. John’s wort.
Its botanical name, Hypericum perforatum, comes with its own bits of history and magic. The word “Hypericum” is Greek in origin and refers to the old tradition of hanging the flowers above doorways on Midsummer’s Eve to ward off evil and invite light and good fortune into the home. “Perforatum” comes from those tiny little “holes” you’ll see if you hold one of its leaves up to the light, little perforations that are actually translucent oil glands.
Two of its well-known active constituents are hypericin and hyperforin. If you squeeze a flower bud between your fingers, you’ll see a gorgeous deep red pigment—hypericin—staining your skin. That rich red is where much of the plant’s magic lies.
Why Herbalists Love St. John’s Wort
While some gardeners might groan about it (it’s prolific and can be invasive), herbalists light up at the sight of St. John’s wort. It’s been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties, and I use it often in my own personal apothecary.
Topically, St. John’s wort oil is my go-to for nerve-related pain—things like sciatica, post-surgery nerve issues, or nerve irritation from injuries. Personally, this plant has done wonders for the nerve pain I’ve experienced from two hip surgeries.
It’s also great for easing inflammation, back pain, sore muscles, and general body aches. And it doesn’t stop there—it works on a deeper level by gently calming and supporting the nervous system. After a bath or shower, rubbing this beautiful red oil all over your body can completely shift your mood. It’s like being wrapped in a warm, grounding hug.
Making Fresh St. John’s Wort Oil
Normally, herbal oils are made with dried herbs, but not St. John's Wort. You want to harvest the fresh plant while in bloom to make this oil.
Here’s how to make your own:
What You’ll Need:
Fresh St. John’s wort (flowering tops with the top 8–10 inches of stems and leaves)
Scissors
Clean mason jar
Oil of choice (I use high-quality olive oil)
Instructions:
Harvest when the plant is in full bloom (usually late June around the Summer Solstice).
Gathering the flowering tops, including 8-10 inches of stems and leaves.
Cut the plant into small pieces using kitchen scissors.
Fill your jar about ⅓ of the way with the chopped herb.
Pour in enough oil to completely cover the herb, filling to the top.
Cap the jar and let it sit on a sunny windowsill for 3–4 weeks.
Over time, you’ll watch your oil transform into that deep, ruby red color.
Straining Your Oil
Once your oil has macerated for 3–4 weeks, it’s ready to strain.
You’ll Need:
Nut milk bag or muslin strainer
Large bowl or measuring cup
Small funnel
Clean glass bottles or jars for storage
How to Strain:
Remove the jar lid and pour the oil and herbs into your strainer over the bowl.
Squeeze out every last drop of that gorgeous red oil.
Discard the spent plant material.
Using a funnel, pour the oil into clean jars or bottles.
Storage Tip: Keep your oil in a cool, dark place. Stored properly, it should last 1–2 years.
St. John’s Wort is truly a summertime gift—capturing the sun’s warmth and turning it into something that soothes and comforts, all year long. Whether you’re using it for nerve pain, sore muscles, or just to bring a little extra calm into your day, this plant is one worth getting to know.
Have you ever worked with St. John’s Wort or made the oil yourself? I’d love to hear your experience—drop a comment below!
Don't have access to fresh St. John's Wort? No Worries!
If you don't have access to fresh St. John's Wort to make your own herbal infused oil but you still want to experience the benefits, here are two oils I have personally tried and can attest to their quality.
Hi, I'm Danielle, a Clinical Herbalist passionate about supporting women in feeling nourished, finding balance and reclaiming their health with confidence and care.
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I believe that when women thrive, the world does too.
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