St. John's Wort is associated with protection, healing, strength and happiness in witchcraft.
What St. John's Wort symbolizes
St. John's Wort symbolizes protection, illumination, and the triumph of light over darkness. It is also associated with midsummer and the power of the Sun.
How witches use St. John's Wort
- Warding off negative energies and spirits
- Blessing homes and sacred spaces
3 more st. john's wort uses, best practices and step-by-step rituals are in the Wicca app.
Appearance & origins
A perennial herb with bright yellow, star-shaped flowers that have five petals. The flowers are often dotted with black or red spots, and the stems are reddish with opposite, oblong leaves that are perforated with tiny translucent dots, giving the appearance of perforations when held up to the light.
Native to Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia, but it has spread to many parts of the world, including North America and Australia, where it often grows in meadows, roadsides, and disturbed areas.
Associated deities
- Helios
- Apollo
- Baldur
Safety
Warnings: Do not ingest St. John's Wort. It can cause photosensitivity, especially in fair-skinned individuals, so avoid excessive sunlight or UV exposure after skin contact. It is toxic to livestock, particularly grazing animals like cattle and sheep.
Health note: St. John's Wort can interact with many medications, including antidepressants, birth control pills, and blood thinners, so do not ingest it. It may also cause photosensitivity, so avoid prolonged sun exposure after handling the plant or applying its oil to the skin.
Storage: Store dried St. John's Wort in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Infused oils should be kept in dark glass bottles and away from heat to prevent rancidity.
