18/10/2023
Hawthorn ~ Crataegus spp.
Protectress of the Heart ✨♥️✨
The Hearts of Man & Womankind have been through a lot these past few years, to put it lightly.
Thank goodness for the intelligence of nature which has been bestowed upon us!
The plant ally Hawthorn has incredible relevance in these times, tending to our hearts (and circulation) on all planes: physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
The berries, leaves and flowers are all worked with as medicines, not to mention the simple yet profound medicine of basking in the presence of this majestic tree 🙏🏼🍃
On a physical level, hawthorn protects and strengthens the heart muscle & blood vessels, prevents blood clots and heart attacks, normalises the heartbeat and assists in regulating blood pressure; raising when low and reducing when high.
Hawthorn is helpful for many cardio-circulatory conditions, along with anxiety, poor memory, specific digestive issues, insomnia and working on a whole other intangible level too.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hawthorn is considered a Shen tonic. The heart is said to house the Shen, which is defined as the consciousness, spirit, essence or mental health of the person. Healthy Shen is recognised by the presence of ‘light’ in the eyes; a ‘sparkle’ and a person living in harmony, with the capacity for vision, wisdom and insight. In contrast, a diminished Shen appears as ‘dullness’ in the eyes or a lack of overall presence, along with scattered or unsettled behaviour.
This especially relates to the effects of physical or emotional trauma which can lead to a Shen disturbance. Traumatic experiences often lead to a dissociation from the body; ‘cutting off’ - a protective trauma response or learned behaviour commonly acquired in the formative years, equating to less presence, as often evidenced in the eyes.
Hawthorn can assist us in connecting with and settling back into our spirit💡
As mind, body and spirit are unified, it is clear to see that physical disturbances are often rooted elsewhere. Plant medicines such as Hawthorn have such scope and depth as to interact with and address all levels of our manifestation in this reality.
✨🍃✨🍃✨
Disclaimer: This post is solely for informational purposes. Please seek the individualised support of a qualified herbalist or consult your health provider before taking any herbs mentioned.
