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re: St. Johns wort

Michael,
<<I am writing an article on this plant for the next newsletter.
i am abit puzzled by its origins
this is waht i have written so far
Any comments queries criticisms?
Thaks>>
I imagine we are talking abou the same plant 'Hypericum perforatum'(?)--or
Ragwort.  Here are some French names: Chasse-diable ('Fuga demonium' during
the period Gallo-romaine), Herbe de la St. John, Trucheron, Herbe aux
piqures (hat on u).  The 'red oil' is still used in some parts of France,
Switzerland, Central Europe to disinfect and heal burns and wounds.  It is
said to cause 'light sensitivity' in cows if they accidently eat it (they
very much avoid touching it when growing on meadows).  The Druids believed
it's smell alone was enough to chase off evil spirits.
The red oil is made by macerating a pound of fresh flowers in a litre of
olive-oil and half a litre of white wine for 4 days then boil until the
wine has evaporated and filter (I wouldn't use it!!<g>)
 Hope there's some info you can use.  
 Eric
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