Nature gives us the gift of plant medicine. There are herbs that offer us the opportunity to integrate our mind and our heart that give us a sense of balance and harmony.
Some of these powerful herbs include:
Roses
No other flower speaks so fluently to the heart. Rose, in herbal medicine, is considered a nervine– soothing to the nervous system and uplifting to the mood and is classified as a heart “exhilarant,” which helps fill the emotional heart with joy. Rose is also known to have toning, anti-inflammatory, menstrual regulating and digestive properties as well as being an aphrodisiac. Rosehips, the fruit of the Rose, are an excellent source of bioflavanoids and vitamins C and E. Historically European sailors often carried dried rosehips on long voyages to stave off scurvy and Roses were grown in WWII “Victory Gardens” for the medicinal value of the hips. As a flower essence, Wild Rose “helps reawaken our interest in life. In a positive Wild Rose state we are happy-go-lucky. Instead of apathy we feel a sense of purpose that brings increased happiness and enjoyment.” Enjoy Rose as a blooming flower, a rosehip, a flower essence, a tincture, a tea, or an oil.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn is wonderful heart medicine, and can be used for ailments such as heart disease, reduction in cardiac function, and arrhythmia. On an emotional level, Hawthorn is especially healing in times of grief, when the heart feels broken. As a Flower Essence, Hawthorn offers both protection and encouragement, allowing one to re-open the heart to even deeper and more powerful love after a period of sadness or discouragement. Hawthorn berries, leaves, and thorns can all be used when making a tincture, or alcohol extract; alternately, Hawthorn berries can be boiled over several hours (decocted) to drink as a tea. Hawthorn berry powder can be added to drinks and food.
Chamomile
Another powerful herb for calming the mind and creating a deep relaxed state is the chamomile flower which helps us to surrender to the flow of life. Chamomile is very beneficial in treating anxiety, insomnia and restlessness as well as promoting deep restorative sleep which is essential if we are to feel happy and healthy.
Mugwort
Mugwort is the herbal choice to access the dream state and activate your imagination. You can also use mugwort to deepen your daily meditation and feel more connected to your inner self. Start with a teaspoon of dried mugwort and brew for 10 minutes. Sip slowly before you enter meditation.
Lavender
In addition to its pleasant scent, lavender has a variety of important healing benefits, which include its ability to relieve stress, improve mood, promote restful sleep, and reduce inflammation. Lavender will help to strengthen the bond between the mind and the heart and open us to more love. Lavender oil is the most used essential oil in the world today because of its powerful antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidepressive, sedative and calming properties which were actually discovered over 2,500 years ago!
*As always, know your sources when sourcing these herbs. Please, when possible, use organically and sustainably grown and harvested herbs.
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