Sacred Trees: Me"cine and Magic

Erin Smith, MS, CCH

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Plants are strong medicine. Please use them with respect and awareness. The information contained herein is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used in place of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified healthcare practitioner.

©2013 Erin Smith and Center for Integrative Botanical Studies

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Trees have been revered in some form by every culture in the world. They have been seen as the center of the universe/cosmos, the Tree of Life or World tree, and the holders and messengers of sacred knowledge. On a more practical level, trees have also been a source of life for humans from the beginning, offering building material, medicine, and fuel for their fires. In many ways sacred trees have fueled our lives and our spirits and continue to do so. Following is a handful of trees held sacred around the world and an exploration of their history and healing powers.

Sacred Trees of # World

Middle East

Cedar (Cedrus libani)

Sacred first to the ancient Mesopotamian and Sumerians, the cedar has been celebrated as the world tree for over 5,000 years. The Sumerians believed Ea, the god of wisdom and a principal deity, embodied the cedar and it became an oracle tree used for prophecy. It was considered by Middle Eastern cultures from this point on to be the “tree of the gods”. It is an integral part of many scriptures like the Epic of Gilgamesh and is mentioned over 70 times in the Bible itself. The Cedar is an important part of Hebrew and Kabbalist myth and closely associated with stories of God. Cedar wood was used for the temples of many venerated Kings during the rise of the Christian era; Noah’s ark was built of cedar, Joshua anointed the book of prophecies with cedar oil and it is said that Christ was crucified on a cross made of cedar. The cedars of Lebanon were held highly sacred and have been a place of pilgrimage for centuries; sadly only remnants of this ancient forest remain. Other cedar species exist throughout the world and in North America the Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) is considered sacred keeper of the west by the Native Americans and appears in myths as the nurturer and guardian of Earth’s children.

Medicine: Antiseptic, treats respiratory and urinary ailments

In Ayurvedic Medicine cedar helps fever, pulmonary and urinary disorders

Emotional: Cedar oil is a deep, grounding oil that enhances meditation, emotional fortitude, relaxation and releases stress, tension, aggression and emotional dependency.

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Europe

Oak (Quercus spp.)

There are more than 500 species of oak found throughout the world. Long prized for its wood, it almost completely disappeared form the United Kingdom that was once covered in oak forests. It was saved from extinction from what is thought to be the earliest environmental laws. Oak was held sacred by the sky gods in Norse, Celtic, Slavic, Roman and Greek traditions, particularly the god of lightening and fire. Oaks are struck by lightening more than any other tree. Long believed to be the most sacred tree of the druids, it is now thought to have been only one of the many trees held sacred by them. Part of the old sacred triad – oak, ash, and thorn. It is believed that if these trees are found growing together, it is a highly sacred space, belonging to the faeries. Throughout Europe oak groves were seen as highly sacred spaces and are still held so today. Christianity has acquired some, such as the sacred grove of Kildare in Ireland. It was once held sacred to the Goddess Brigid, adopted by the Catholic Church as Saint Brigit. In Greece, the oak was seen as the Tree of Life and the whispering of the leaves to be the voices of the gods. It is seen as a doorway to the spiritual realm and in Irish the word for door and oak are the same.

Medicine: Astringent, antiseptic.

Used for varicose veins, hemorrhoids, to wash sores and skin irritations, stop diarrhea. Bark of the white oak is used as a tea to clean the body of excess mucus, post nasal drip, lung congestion.

Emotional:Bach essence - For people who, even through despondency and despair, never give up hope. They enjoy helping others and may overwork themselves, hiding their tiredness so as not to disturb anyone. They are patient, strong and endowed with common sense.

Linden/ Lime (Tilia spp.)

In European folklore Lime was represented as Female and was regarded by the Germanic and Norse as sacred to the goddesses of love and fertility, Freya, the counterpart of Venus and Frigga, goddess of marriage, love and hearth. Lime is also considered the “tree of justice” or the “tree of liberty” and was often the location for the local courts of law and was planted to mark the end of wars. Linden is also associated with the mythical dragon. In Scandinavian tales the Dragon Fafnir lived in Lime and in German the old poetic term for dragon is Lindwurm, which translated means “the lime tree serpent”. In Germany the Lindenblutenfest (Lime-blossom festival) is still celebrated with poetry, art and dance. In Greek myth Phylira (the sea nymph) is changed into a Lime after birthing Chiron (half-man half -horse) who later taught his secret knowledge about the healing powers of nature to the first physician, Asclepius, the father of medicine. The mother of medicine is hence the Linden and Phylira’s name is closely related to the Greek word philien meaning “to love”, the true healer being love.

Medicine: Relaxant - aids tension, anxiety, sleep, muscle tension, menstrual pain, headaches, irritability, depression and calms restlessness, excitable children. Linden has an affinity with the heart and is an amazing heart tonic on all levels. Also helps harsh coughs, sore throats, and sinusitis; is a diuretic and is used externally for inflammatory skin conditions.

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Emotional: Aromatherapy- the sweet fragrant oil is relaxing and anti-spasmodic and aids all stress related issues and depression.Flower Essence- heals matters of the heart; good for those having trouble giving and/or receiving love and affection. Linden releases emotional blocks, helps communication and strengthens relations with loved ones. It is a symbol of conjugal love, sweetness, peace and happiness.

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)

This beautiful tree with its halo of white blossoms in the spring has long been revered with both fear and awe. A highly magical tree, it has long been associated with faeries, particularly in Ireland. Here, even today, it is held to be highly sacred and not to be cut down. Stories abound about curses resulting from touching and destroying hawthorn trees, particularly the “lone trees”, or single trees found in open spaces. In Ireland, it is considered extremely unlucky to bring the blossoms into the home. Also called the May tree it has long been associated with May eve and Beltane. Christianity adopted all of these beliefs as it entered Ireland, where it is now also known to be the tree of Christ’s crucifixion. The cross was made from the wood and the crown made from its thorns. Similarly, trees found by wells were once held sacred in the local pagan religion as places related to the Goddess and a doorway to the faery and spiritual realm. Offerings and prayers were left by the tying of ribbons or cloth to the trees. This practice still continues today.

Medicine:

Mucilaginous (berries), Astringent (leaves), antioxidant, nutritious, cardiotonic, cardioprotective, diuretic

Uses: It is an adaptogen and tonic specific to the circulatory system. Used for hypertension, hypotension, hemorrhoids, congestive heart failure, etc. Most chronic heart diseases will be affected by the use of this herb.

Emotional:

Again it is wonderful for the heart. Will aid in healing a broken heart, opening the heart, and protecting the heart. Wonderful for people who have problems with giving and receiving love.

Willow (Salix spp.)

Found throughout Europe, North America, North Africa, and Central Asia. Willow was a sacred tree to the ancient Druids, the ancient Sumerians, Greeks and the Native Americans. In Greek myth, willow was an emblem of Artemis, Goddess of the Moon and the Wild as well as Hecate, Circe, Persephone and Hera. The Druids revered willow (Saille in Ogham) for lunar magic, using wands made of willow twigs for such magical workings as prophecy, divination and healing especially within the water element. White Willow represents fertility, purification, intuition and prophecy, and rebirth while Black Willow is associated with sadness grief and lost love. Willow (Saille) holds space in the sacred wheel of the year during the moon of mid-April to mid-May. Willow was also sacred to poets and bards, and was an especially revered wood in the making of harps. It was seen as a resonating feminine vessel that receives the vibration of the string and gives birth to music.

Medicine: Contains the constituent salicylic acid, which is the basis for aspirin. Used for rheumatism, arthritis and pain accompanying flu and infections. It is also astringent and diuretic.

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Emotional/Spiritual: Tree essence: for those who are bitter, resentful, and blame others for their misfortunes. Helps one recognize negativity and take responsibility to shape ones own destiny and not be a victim.

Asia

Bodhi (Ficus religiosa) and Banyan (Ficus benghalenis) Bodhi- Over 2,600 years ago the Indian prince, Siddhartha Gautama, chose the Bodhi to sit under as he saught the knowledge that might release all beings from suffering; from this deep meditation he returned having found “ the ultimate and unconditioned truth” and was then revered as the “The Enlightened One” or Buddha. The Bodhi is considered the “tree of awakening” and is one of the most sacred trees of both the Buddhist and Hindu cultures. The Bodhi represents transcendence and the deep, mystical way of becoming one with the universe. The Bodhi or Pipal (in India) is literally the world tree; it is celebrated even today in rich festivals and ceremonies and is always planted around temples.

Medicine: Traditionally the juice from the leaves was used for earaches and the powered bark used as a paste for wounds. In Ayurveda decoctions of the powdered bark are used externally as an astringent and antiseptic.

Banyan- Sacred to most cultures of Eastern Asia and India, the Banyan grows all over the region of the world, but is native to India and Pakistan. In Hinduism, the Banyan has maintained its ancient role as the abode of divine presence and is seen in the earliest scriptures as the Vedas and the Upanishads and is also mentioned in the Bhagavad-Gita. The Banyan represents immortality and is associated with Brahma. Banyan is also sacred to the Buddhists; many temples are surrounded in its presence and sacred spirits are said to reside in its branches.

Medicine: In traditional SE Asian medicine the sap is used externally for inflammations and bruising. In Ayurveda the milky latex is used for pain, the infusion of the bark as a tonic to cool the body and the paste for skin ulcers and tooth care. In Western medicine Banyan has been researched for curing diabetes (based on traditional uses).

North America

Sequoia: Coastal Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) Once covering much of the Pacific Northwest, the coastal redwood now only extends along a small area of the coast of Northern California. It is held sacred by the Native Americans of the region: the Sinkyone, Kashaya Pomo, Southwestern Pomo, Houma, Wappo, Mendicino and Tolawa people. The Tolawa revere Redwood in their creation myth. The Sinkyone consider Sequoia the sacred protector of the whole forest especially of the streams (life giver) and their burial grounds always laid below the sacred tree. Much information about the Sequoia has been passed down in oral tradition and is considered sacred in Native culture, unfortunately much of the original lore has

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been lost but what remains should be respected as such. Being in the presence of the Great Sequoia one can understand the very ancient, deep and spiritual nature of this amazing being for oneself.

Medicine: The Pomo and Kashaya tribes used poultices of warmed, new foliage for earaches and the gummy sap as a stimulant and tonic. The Houma drank inner bark infusions for jaundice and to purify the blood.

Emotional/Spiritual: “The ancient chief””. The tree essence of Redwood engenders inner strength, courage, resourcefulness, balance and positive male qualities.

Pine (Pinus spp.)

Pines and other evergreen trees have long been symbols of eternal life throughout North America and Europe. In North America, among the Rio Grande Pueblos, pine, spruce, or fir trees were taken from the forest in the late autumn, early winter and brought into the dancing area, one placed in each of the four directions. The Pine Tree Dance was then celebrated as an offering of thanksgiving and prayers for the winter. Once the ceremony was completed the trees were brought back to the forest or set adrift on a river (Altman, 2000). During the winter solstice, the Arikara people would bring a cedar to the center of their village. Presents were offered to the tree spirit. It was decorated with paint and feathers and moved to a stand upon a sacred stone pillar where it would stay until the spring. Similarly, the Celtic tradition in Europe recognized the pine, spruce and fir to represent eternal life. During the winter solstice, gifts of fruit, cloth, and other offerings were placed at and on the trees. During this “dead” time of year, people would ask for blessings of renewal of life, fertility, and abundance while making the offerings. Christianity as the tree of Christ later adopted this tradition.

Medicine:

Actions: anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, stimulant, astringent, expectorant, diuretic, antimicrobial

Uses: Needles and resin are excellent in a cough syrup. The resin can be used to close and heal wounds. One of the highest sources of vitamin C. Externally it is used for skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. Improves vascular integrity and therefore useful for varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Emotional/Spiritual:

Its invigorating, enlivens the mind and senses. Wonderful for exhaustion, anxiety and stress; its warming and strengthening. The flower essence is used for guilt and for people who cling to their guilt, which affects their outlook on life and their overall energy. It allows for a greater understanding of human nature and allows light and forgiveness back into their lives.

Aspen (Populus tremula)

The “Whispering Tree”, Aspen is sacred to the Native Americans, to whom it has strong solar associations. The Navajo’s Sun House Chant is associated with Aspen and the Cheyenne’s Sun Dance Lodge is built from its wood. It is also seen as protection against evil, and the Hopi smoke it ceremoniously for this purpose. “The Quaking Poplar” is also featured in Greek Myth, in Hercules return from Hades and for Zeus a sacrificial fire of aspen wood was burned for his safe return. The Greek name for Aspen is Aspis, meaning shield. The Celts used Aspen wood for making shields that were not only physical barriers between warrior and enemy, but also represented the magical and

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protective properties of the tree. To the ancient Northern Europeans the rustling of Aspen leaves were thought to induce prophetic insight. In Mesopotamia 5,000 year old aspen leaves have been found on ancient graves. It is also mentioned as guarding the place of the mythical rebirth of the sun in Roman myth.

Medicine: anti-inflammatory, pain reliever, fever reducer, astringent, and antiseptic. Aspen is used to treat urinary infections, diarrhea, uterine problems, liver congestion, diabetes, pain of all sorts and externally for cuts, eczema, ulcers and the powder from the bark is a excellent sun block.

Emotional: Flower Essence- For those who suffer vague or acute fears for no apparent reason. Aspen increases inner strength and confidence, enhances awareness of a higher power encouraging one to trust the divine power of love and experience life and adventure beyond fear.

Africa

Baobab (Adansonia digitata)

Known throughout Africa as the Tree of Life, the baobab is distinctive with its extra wide trunk. They are ancient trees, often living over a thousand years. Its large trunks are capable of holding up to 30,000 gallons of water in their spongy wood. This ability has meant that for many tribes the tree was “life-giving” during times of extreme drought. However, its many other uses of fiber, food, and medicine have also meant that it is an essential plant for many people throughout its native Africa and Madagascar. As a result there are numerous rituals and myths surrounding this odd looking tree, including many thanksgiving rituals. Like so many trees, it is seen as a powerful gate to the spirit world. As an ancestor tree, it is seen as a place to communicate with the spirit world. As a result many tribes have also used old trunks as burial sites for distinguished people, such as shamans. It is often a gathering and meeting place where decisions are made. In South Africa it is a protected tree.

Medicine: Used to lower fevers, treat malaria. Leaves used to relieve chest ailments, coughs, and asthma. Stops excessive perspiration. Externally, it is used as a poultice for sores and scratches. The seeds are edible and used to make a lemony drink or sucked on for refreshment and as a source of vitamin C. The drink is also used to lower fevers and to treat colds. Some believe that it will also protect you from crocodiles.

Emotional: In Australia, the essence is used for those caught in negative patterns of their ancestors, for those who repeat the same mistakes. Heals the collective unconscious. Highly sacred to shamans and medicine people in Africa who perhaps use it for emotional, spiritual illnesses as well.

Australia

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)

Though it is only native to Australia, this beautiful tree has over 400 species. Widely known for its medicinal properties, it is also among the most sacred trees to Australian aboriginals. However, the cultural lore around these trees is passed only through oral tradition, which is still strong today. Knowledge of a sacred tree is still considered secret and “initiation knowledge” and therefore very little is known by those outside of aboriginal culture (Hageneder, 2005). What is known is its use

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for the ceremonial didgeridoo, most likely the oldest instrument in the world, which was used to help create the world.

Medicine:

Antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, expectorant, bronchodilator

Has a long and traditional use as medicine by Australian aboriginals. Can be used externally for wounds, especially those infected and gangrenous. Wonderful internally as a steam for bronchitis, pneumonia, and the flu. Excellent for asthma. A powerful antiseptic and useful for cleaning wounds and the air.

Emotional: (Eucalyptus macrocarpa)

Enhances the adrenal glands, helping you cope with stress. For people who over extend themselves, burnt out, and have a lower resistance to disease.

(Eucalyptus caesia)

For those at a cross roads in their lives and unsure of which direction to take. Also for those that have reached one important goal but feel unfulfilled. Helps show direction and enhances the enjoyment of the journey.

South America

Cacao (Theobroma cacao)

The Mayans first domesticated the cacao tree, the mother of chocolate. It is believed to have been the drink of the gods. According to Aztec mythology Quetzalcoatl, the god of agriculture, gave it to the people. Being reserved only for the gods, he was then banished from heaven for this crime. Even on earth, it was reserved for a long time as a drink of royalty. It was so prized in Mayan and Aztec cultures that the beans were used as currency. However, the beans continued to be seen as sacred and offered as offerings to the gods and priests often poured blood offerings over the seeds themselves. Long held as a strong aphrodisiac, the original chocolate drink is also believed to bestow wisdom and vitality to the drinker.

Medicine:Antiseptic, diuretic, emmenagogue, and vermifuge.

Uses:Used in burns, coughs, fever, listlessness, malaria, rheumatism, snakebite and wounds. Cacao butter has long been used to heal dry and chapped skin and as an overall emollient.

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Trees as Me"cineHerbal Medicines

Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)

Actions: antiseptic, astringent, laxative, emetic, antifungal, vermifuge

Uses: It is used for athlete’s foot, ringworm, and other fungal infections. Internally it is also used for chronic constipation, intestinal toxemia, hemorrhoids, intestinal worms, giardia and other parasites.

Cherry Bark (Prunus spp.)

Actions: stimulating astringent, tonifying expectorant, and a sedating nervine.

Uses: Astringent tonic to the respiratory and digestive systems. It is used for pleurisy, pneumonia, whooping cough, nervous coughs and acute inflammatory conditions. Especially indicated for chronic bronchitis, chronic diarrhea, and general coughs.

Elder (Sambucus nigra)

Actions: flowers - expectorant, relaxing diaphoretic, diuretic, alterative, nervine, mild laxative. Berries – antiviral, immune stimulant, mild laxative, Bark- a strong emetic and laxative.

Uses: The berries have long been used traditionally for flu. They are also a wonderful immune tonic. The flowers have been used traditionally as a spring tonic and for fevers. The leaves and bark were used traditionally as well but are used less often today.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Actions: increases blood flow to the limbs and brain, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory.

Uses: for impaired mental performance, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. For migraines, tinnitus, vertigo, diabetic retinopathy. Due to its antioxidant properties, it is also used externally and in cosmetics for the skin.

Juniper (Juniperus communis)

Actions: stimulating diuretic, carminative, antiseptic, and hypoglycemic

Uses: Excellent for chronic bladder and kidney infections, for edema, arthritis, amenorrhea or dysmenorrhea (lack of or painful menstruation).

Linden (Tilia spp.)

Actions: diaphoretic, diuretic, antispasmodic, antidepressant, and calmative

Uses: Good for hypertension from arteriosclerosis will shorten viral infections, relaxing and excellent for nervous tension. Wonderful anti-stress remedy. Gently calming and therefore excellent for insomnia due to anxiety or stress.

Neem (Azadirachta indica)

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Actions: antimalarial, vermifuge, antiseptic, antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-histamine, insecticide, oviposition deterring, anti-hormonal.

Uses: An ancient Ayurvedic medicine, it has long been used, internally and externally, for intestinal worms and parasites, skin diseases, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, and as birth control. Found to be more effective than DEET, it is now widely used throughout the world for its insecticidal properties. Also excellent for preventing tooth decay.

Prickly Ash (Zanthoxylum americanum)

Actions: alterative, antiseptic, immune stimulant, mild antispasmodic, carminative, astringent, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, nervine, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory.

Uses: Excellent for immune support and often used for the elderly or the convalescent. Used for chronic rheumatic conditions, gastric irritation, and conditions with damaged nerves. It strengthens sluggish digestives systems. Increases overall circulation and excellent when used with other herbs.

Slippery Elm (Ulmus spp.)

Actions: Demulcent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, nutritive.

Uses: Was long used by Native Americans as a first food for infants. Soothing to mucus membrane irritation, including the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and urinary tract. Wonderful for inflammation of the throat and stomach, including sore throats and ulcers. Externally, it is used for wounds, burns, and any other inflammatory skin disorders.

*Note: Due to its medicinal use and Dutch Elm’s disease, this tree is now highly endangered in the wild. Please purchase only cultivated Slippery Elm.

Cramp Bark/Black Haw (Viburnum opulus/prunifolium)

Actions: antispasmodic, astringent, nervine, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, carminative. (V. opulus is thought to be a stronger anti-spasmodic, but both have shown uterine sedative activity).

Uses: Excellent for bronchial, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and skeletal muscle spasms. It is commonly used for menstrual pain with excessive blood loss. Also used in asthma and leg cramps.

Willow (Salix spp.)

Actions: anti-inflammatory, astringent, analgesic

Uses: Traditionally used for fevers, headaches, and rheumatic conditions. It can take the body several hours to absorb the pain relieving constituents and therefore its is not the best herb for acute pain relief. Externally, it is excellent as an antiseptic for wounds.

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Aromatherapy

Birch (Betula lenta) – Europe/North America

Uses: Physical- Specific as a muscular and arthritic pain reliever, diuretic and circulatory stimulant.

*Caution: Toxic in large doses. Do not use during pregnancy or with small children.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) – Africa, Indochina, Madagascar, Sri Lanka

Uses: Physical – creates heat, increases perspiration, helpful for menstrual cramps, indigestion, diarrhea, genitourinary infections. Emotional- relieves tension, steadies nerves, and invigorates senses.

* Caution: Both leaf and bark are irritating to the skin and mucus membranes. The bark is much stronger than the leaf.

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) – Africa

Uses: Physical – antiseptic, antifungal, relieves toothaches, sore muscles, arthritis, colds, flu and bronchial congestion. Emotional- stimulating helps mental fatigue, poor memory and overcoming nervousness.

*Caution: a skin and mucus membrane irritant. Use in 1% dilution or less.

Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) – Southern France/Greece

Uses: Physical- for the circulatory, upper respiratory, and urinary infections. Emotional- eases insomnia and grief, increases emotional stamina.

Fir (Abies alba) – Northern Europe

Uses: Physical – circulatory, respiratory, genital and urinary infections. Antispasmodic and soothes muscles and rheumatic complaints. Emotional – increases intuition, releases energy and emotional blocks, grounding and elevating.

Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) – North Africa, Middle East (south)

Uses: Physical - antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial. Good for lung, genital, urinary and digestive complaints. Good for bacterial and fungal infections. Emotional – important oil since ancient times used to enhance meditation, mental perception, spiritual states as it slows and deepens breathing.

Juniper (Juniperus communis) - North America/France

Uses: Physical – antiseptic, circulatory stimulant, genitourinary tract anti-infectant, diuretic, and antirheumatic. Emotional – for mental fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and protection from being emotional drained by others.

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*Caution – Can be potential toxic to the kidneys. Do not use with kidney infections or disease.

Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) – North East Africa, Middle East

Uses: Physical – improves immunity, digestion, and treats diarrhea, coughs, gum disease, wounds, Candida, and helps amenorrhea. Emotional- used since antiquity to inspire prayer and meditation and to revitalize the spirit.

Ravensara (Cryptocarya aromatica) – Madagascar

Uses: Physical - good for any infection, antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, antirheumatic.

Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora) – French Guiana (now extinct there), Northeastern South America

Uses: Physical – eases headaches, cold, fever, infections, vaginitis, and nausea. Emotional- antidepressant, helps promote tranquility and constructive emotional work.

* Note: This rainforest tree is threatened and at high risk of endangerment in many areas. Use rose geranium as a substitute whenever possible.

Sandalwood (Santalum album) – India, Indonesia, and Australia (produces inferior S. spectrum)

Uses: Physical – excellent for genital and urinary infections, counters inflammation, hemorrhoids, persistent coughs, nausea, sore throat and nerve pain. Emotional- used for over 2000 years, it promotes openness, grounding, and useful for any spiritual practices. Also good for depression, anxiety and insomnia.

*Note – Due to its long history of use it is now highly endangered, especially in the Mysore region of India. Please use sparingly and be aware of its source and harvesting practices. Frankincense is a good substitute for most purposes.

Tea Tree (Melaleuca spp.) – Australia

Uses: Physical – antimicrobial, antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral. Emotional – builds strength and is good for pre and postoperative shock.

Ylang ylang (Cananonga odorata) – Asia/Australia

Uses: Physical – strong sedative, antispasmodic, helps to lower blood pressure. Emotional – tempers depression, fear, jealousy, anger, and frustration. An aphrodisiac in low doses.

*Caution: high concentrations can produce headaches and nausea.

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Tree Essences

Ancient Forest Essences (www.ancientforestessences.com)

Joshua TreeAncient OlivePetrified ForestRedwoodGiant SequoiaRed CedarGolden Lodge PoleArizona JuniperArizona CypressBristlecone PineTwin Douglas FirCottonwoodIrish Fairy Tree

Findhorn Essences (www.findhornessences.com)

AppleBalsamBirchCherryElderHazelLaurelLime (Linden)RowanScots PineSycamore (Acer psuedoplantanas)

Alaskan Flower Essence Project (www.alaskanessences.com)

AlderBalsam PoplarBlack SprucePaper BirchTamarackWhite SpruceWillow

Bach Flower Essences (www.bachflower.com, FES - www.flowersociety.org, 916-265-9163)

AspenBeechCherry PlumChestnut BudCrab AppleElmHollyLarchOakOlivePineRed ChestnutSweet Chestnut

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WalnutWillow

Australian Bush Flower Essences (www.bushfloweressences.com)

EucalyptusPeach flowered Tea TreeBaobab (Baob)

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Glossary of Herbal Terms

Adaptogen: assists in the body’s ability to cope with stress, whether physical, mental, or emotional. Helps the body to maintain its proper balance.

Alterative: also known as blood and lymph cleansers. Enhances nutrition and repair to bodily tissues.

Analgesic: relieves pain

Anti-catarrhal: decreases the production of mucus from the mucous membranes. Note: Mucus is necessary and important to the body and the immune system. It should not be stopped unless it is chronically in excess and the cause cannot be addressed. For colds and flu, it is better to thin the mucus than to stop it.

Astringent: causes the contraction of tissues. Drying action.

Carminative: reduces and prevents gas

Cholagogue: stimulates bile flow from the gall bladder.

Diaphoretic: induces perspiration.

Diuretic: stimulates urination.

Emetic: causes vomiting. Anti-emetic – stops nausea and vomiting)

Expectorant: causes the expulsion of mucus from the lungs. Two types: soothing and mucilaginous, and stimulating. Stimulating expectorants should always be taken with lots of water.

Hypotensive: lowers blood pressure

Hypoglycemic: lowers blood sugar

Immunomodulator: enhances the body’s immune system.

Rubefacient: increases circulation to the skin, usually localized.

Vulnerary: promotes healing of wounds or irritated tissues.

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Recommended Rea"ng

Altman, Nathaniel (2000) Sacred Trees: spirituality, wisdom, and wellbeing, Sterling Publishing, New York.

Caldecott, Moyra (1993) Myths of the Sacred Tree, Destiny Books, Rochester.

Cunningham, Scott (1985) Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Llewellyn Publications, St. Paul.

Patterson, Jacqueline Memory (1996) Tree Wisdom: the definitive guidebook to the myth, folklore and the healing power of trees, Thorsons Publishing, London.

Hopman, Ellen Every (1991) Tree Medicine, Tree Magic, Phoenix Publishing, Washington.

Hopman, Ellen Every, A Druid’s Herbal

Keville, Kathy and Green, Mindy (1995) Aromatherapy: a complete guide to the healing art, The Crossing Press, Freedom.

Blamieres, Steve (1997) Celtic Tree Mysteries: secrets of the ogham, Llewellyn Publishing, St. Paul.

Lewington, Anna and Parker, Edward (1999) Ancient Trees: trees that live for a thousand years, Collens and Brown, London.

McIntyre, Anne (1996) The Complete Floral Healer, Henry Holt Publishing, New York.

Hageneder, Fred (2005) The Meaning of Trees: botany, history, healing and lore, Chronicle Books, San Francisco.

Boyer, Marie-France (1996) Tree Talk: memories, myths, and timeless customs, Thames and Hudson Publishing, London

Mountfort, Paul Rhys (2001) Ogam: the Celtic oracle of trees, Destiny Books, Rochester.

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