St John's Wort contains acylphlorogluinol hyperforin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory. It also contains large amounts of tannins, which are astringents that cause skin to shrink, controlling capillary bleeding. These properties allow the bruise to heal quickly, and dramatically reduce the amount of discoloration you see. St. John’s Wort Oil is also effective for reducing swelling and relieving the pain that comes along with bruises. Simply apply the St. John's Wort oil onto your bruise several times a day until the bruising has cleared up.