Wound healing, increasing nerve transmissions, antiseptic, antiviral, antidepressant, immunostimulant

Teas, tinctures, or topical preparations

Saint-John’s-Wort can act as an antidepressant in both humans and animals. It can be used in companion animals to help separation anxiety and even aggression.

Saint-John’s-Wort has antiviral and antibacterial properties, as well as stimulates wound and burn healing, due to its unique chemical compounds. It is particularly useful when soft tissues, joints, or nerve endings have been crushed or bruised.

Studies have shown Saint-John’s-Wort is promising for treating various kinds of viral infections, including AIDS, influenza and canine herpes.

For first aid purposes, apply Saint-John’s-Wort directly to the site of injury via a salve, tincture or oil infusion. The tincture can also be administered internally.

For internal use, give 12 drops of tincture per 20 pounds of animal’s body weight, twice daily.

For herpes, use simultaneous external and internal applications of Saint-John’s-Wort to help lengthen the period between outbreaks and hasten remission of the virus.

• Some animals can develop a photosensitive rash from use. Use extra caution if your animal has white hair, white or pink skin or a short coat.

Wulff-Tilford, Mary, and Gregory L. Tilford. All You Ever Wanted to Know About Herbs for Pets. Irvine, CA: BowTie, 1999. Print.

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