The invention relates to an improved and stable (i.e. color-stable and, optionally, stable with regard to its hyperforin content) extract from the overground parts of Hypericum perforatum L., to a method for the preparation thereof, and to pharmaceutical preparations and topical medicaments that contain this extract; in particular, gels for treating skin and mucous membrane irritations and disorders such as acne, atopic dermatitis, neuro-dermatitis, psoriasis, stomatitis, herpes zoster, herpes labialis (lip herpes), warts, varicella (chicken-pox), sores, burns and other bacterial and viral skin and mucous membrane infections and skin disorders that are accompanied by cell proliferation and inflammation.