Heart Openers: Herbs for Grief and Emotional Support

When grief or loss envelop us in darkness—it's easy to feel lost, as if we've strayed far from the familiar paths that once defined us.

These are the times that test our resilience, pushing us to the brink in ways we could never have anticipated. We meet emotions like fear, uncertainty, and pain.

This journey intertwines our mental and emotional well-being so closely, it becomes hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. Suddenly, the simplest tasks can seem monumental. We feel empty, our appetite fluctuates, and sleep can become a restless, elusive dream, even if the pain is rooted in our emotional body.

Thankfully, the natural world has a unique way of gently nudging us towards what we need, and a big part of that comes from connecting with plants and herbs. Think of them as guides, each with its own set of skills and wisdom to share, ready to help us heal from the inside out.

• Rose and Rose Hips

  Roses, alongside their fruit, rose hips, are treasure troves of vitamin C, essential oils, and antioxidants. The story of the rose has been a symbol of love and healing across cultures, reminding us that there's light even in the darkest times. And their soothing properties support the immune system and the body during times of stress. The water element associated with roses speaks to their profound ability to cleanse and heal emotional wounds, mirroring the soothing and purifying nature of water itself.

• Hawthorn Berry

  Hawthorn, another heart protector, weaves its magic by fortifying the heart both physically and emotionally. It’s rich in flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins, which strengthens the cardiovascular system, while its sacred association with the fire element ignites the inner flame of love and protection. Hawthorn's legacy positions it as a bridge between worlds, offering guidance and protection as we navigate our journey of healing. The compounds in hawthorn improve blood flow and support heart function, embodying the plant's traditional use as a healer of heart disorders like hypertension, arrhythmia, and heart break.

• Chamomile

  Chamomile, widely known for its gentle calming properties, acts like a soft whisper in the night, easing the mind and comforting the soul. Its soothing effect on the digestive system, where much of our emotional turmoil can manifest, makes it an essential herb for emotional balance. And it’s gentle enough for just about anyone, of any age.

• St. John’s Wort

  This bright yellow flowering herb is often associated with light and sun, addressing the darkness of depression and sadness, and bringing us rays of hope. It's like a beacon in the fog, guiding the way forward with its mood-lifting properties. However, it's important to approach this herb with care, as it can interact with various medications.

• Sweets

  Sweetness, in its most natural and unrefined form, nurtures the Earth element within us, which governs our spleen and stomach—our central digestive system. This system, is closely linked to our emotional center, hence why we often seek out sweet flavors during moments of distress. However, the key lies in choosing sweet foods that offer depth and nourishment and not just empty calories. (Though we won’t tell if you break the rules every once and awhile.)

• Root Vegetables

  Root veggies are a great way to access nature’s natural sweetness and literal connection to the Earth. Their rich, earthy flavors and vibrant colors rekindle a sense of vitality, gently encouraging our spirit and body to find a harmonious balance once again. Their nutrient-dense bodies support our energy reserves and nurture our body from the inside out. This grounding effect is a soothing balm for the soul, a reminder that even in the midst of change and loss, there is a steady foundation to which we can return.

• Linden

  Linden, with its sweet and floral notes, has been a symbol of peace and love, offering a calming effect that eases tension and soothes the heart. Its ability to promote relaxation and sleep makes it a valuable companion in times of stress and sadness. In fact, it is such a heart opener, that it is said it is impossible to lie while in the presence of a Linden Tree.

• Lemon Balm

  Lemon balm, with its lemony scent and flavor, is a splash of sunshine, uplifting the spirit and calming the heart. Its gentle nature makes it an ideal choice for easing nervous tension and promoting a sense of well-being.

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