Fragaria Vesca (Wild Strawberry)

Introduction

This assignment discusses Hepatodoron and its relationship to healthy liver functioning.  The assignment opens with botanical descriptions of Fragaria Vesca (Wild Strawberry), one of the plant substances in Hepatodoron.  It then offers a number of artistic observations relating to different aspects of the Fragaria Vesca.  The assignment then moves to discuss the working principles of the Odoron preparations, the specific qualities of Hepatodoron and its relationship to liver function.

The beauty of balance woven in three fold leaves

Mothers releasing their daughters to freedom

Choosing their path, where to take root

Five petals of white beauty opening to the cosmos

Aromatic fruit whose sweetness lifts the spirit and warms our soul

(T. Russell, April 2012)

Fragaria Vesca

Wild Strawberry Plant

Scientific name ~ Fragaria vesca

Family ~ Rosaceae
Genus ~ Fragaria
Species ~ vesca
Planting time ~ Spring

Common Names ~ Alpine Strawberry, Woodland Strawberry
Bloom time ~ Early spring through autumn
Habitat ~ Meadows, Woodland areas, gardens

Fragaria vesca belongs to the Rosaceae family whose plants show a wonderful harmony of form.  They are rich in tannins and is the greatest fruit producing family in the temperate regions of the world.  This species of strawberry plant is native throughout the Northern Hemisphere and goes by many different names. The varying names for Fragaria vesca include: the woodland strawberry, wood strawberry, wild strawberry, European strawberry, fraises des bois, and alpine strawberry

Plant Description, Growing Conditions and Environment

Fragaria vesca is an easy to grow perennial that makes an excellent garden plant that I grow as a ground cover in my garden, in hanging baskets and light coloured pots.  Because the plant produces fruit over a long period, just a few berries ripen on each plant per day.  They are a beautiful woodland plant that spreads by runners called stolons.  Like regular strawberry plants, they have green, trifoliate leaves and white, five-petaled flowers with a yellow center, seeds are small and brown. There is also a variety with sweet yellow fruits.

Wild strawberries grow in sunny to partial shade positions, however according to Wellik, (2009) for optimal production they require six hours of sun per day.  In hot climates this plant is best planted in a location that receives protection from the afternoon sun. Wild strawberries are not tolerant of salty soil, they prefer a moist, fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Soil that contains a lot of clay or drains poorly can be amend with organic compost, (Melco , n.d.).  Alpine strawberries grow in compacted mounds, they have a moderate growth rate and spread out about 18 ~ 20 cm from their mound.  The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by bees.

Influences That Impact Growth

Straw is the traditional mulch and works to help the soil retain its moisture as well as keeping the plant’s fruit clean.  It also helps to keep weeds down, which is important, as strawberries do not deal well with root competition, (Melco, n.d.).  Plants benefit from division every two to four years. Keep the strawberries well watered during warm weather and the fruit bearing season.  To feed plants, top-dress the soil with compost at the beginning of the season before mulching.  According to Melco, (n.d.) too much nitrogen will cause excess leaf growth and poor fruit production.  In cold climates during winter mulch plants with straw or loose leaves to keep the ground temperature more even to prevent frosting.

Some Growing Issues

While alpine strawberries are less prone to disease than other species, slugs, snails and aphids can be a problem.  Companion plants such as mint, alliums and marigolds seem to help, (Melco, n.d.).  Root rot can become a devastating problem in environments that are moist and cool for long periods of time because of the time it can take for the soil to dry out

Medicinal Uses

The elements of earth, water, air and fire act together in this family for the greatest possible harmony.  In this family the etheric or life realm is not over powered by the astral forces so are not pulled too far into the cosmos.   These forces stimulate the plant to produce nectar and sugar in abundance that, when eaten, stimulate and revitalize our etheric forces, (Keats, n.d.).  For human beings sugar is vital for developing and integrating our individuality, our ego; something plants do not have.  The leaves and the fruit are astringent, diuretic, laxative and tonic.  The leaves are mainly used, and in the Odoron substances are coupled with vitis vinifera (grape vine leaves) in the Hepatodoron preparation.  Also the fruits of the wild strawberry are an excellent food to take when feverish and are also effective in treating rheumatic gout (Plants for the Future, n.d.).  A tea made from the leaves is a blood tonic and the leaves are harvested in the summer and dried for later use.  The fruits contain salicylic acid and are beneficial in the treatment of liver and kidney complaints, as well as in the treatment of rheumatism and gout.  The roots are astringent and diuretic and a decoction is used internally in the treatment of diarrhoea and chronic dysentery, (Plants for a future, n.d.).

Fragaria Vesca ~ Wild Strawberry

Detailed Botanical Observation and Descriptions

First Impression

My first impression of the whole plant in the hanging basket was how beautifully balanced and alive it looked.  I felt as if I was encountering a plant that was in harmony with its self despite showing a tendency to one sidedness through its thick green foliage.  I had an impression of a gently flowing waterfall; delicateness coupled with a sense of ‘life’ as the ‘daughter’ plants flowed down from the mother plant on their reddish stolons to find their own place in the earth.  I was aware of feeling ‘uplifted’ when looking at the two plants hanging from my veranda.  The tiny star like flowers opened to the sun revealing their bright yellow centre and there were a few tiny red strawberries peeking from between the leaves as if shy to strangers.  I suddenly realised why the wild strawberry is a woodland plant and could clearly visualize it in this natural habitat.

Roots

The wild strawberry is a creeping herbaceous perennial plant that spreads over the ground by reddish coloured runners called stolons.  A stolon is a specialized type of horizontal above-ground shoot; a colonizing organ that arises from an axillary bud near the base of the plant.  The wild strawberry propagates itself efficiently with these long, delicate surface runners, which can grow up to a couple of metres in a year.  Adventitious roots grow mainly from the crown and extend some centimeters into the soil forming numerous lateral roots which are the primary means of taking in water and nutrients, (Handley, 1998).

The main stem of the plant is a greatly shortened stem called a ‘crown’.  When planted the crown rests on the earth, the roots develop beneath the crown and the ‘mother’ plant above.  Buds formed in the crown produce leaves, flowers, stolens, plantlets and adventitious roots.

Stolons (runners) and plantlets are essentially shoots that develop from axillary buds that form at the base of each leaf.  In this way the ‘mother’ plant forms plantlets along the stolons known as ‘daughter’ plants.  Each ‘daughter’ plant develops adventitious roots which forms a new, independent root system for the plant to anchor into the earth.  The initial stolon growth develops from a first inter-node which extends from the mother plant.

Leaves

The wild strawberry plant has trifoliolate (three leaflets) leaves that attach to a slightly hairy petiole that appears to arise directly from the crown.  The leaves are rich in iron and silica.

In botanical terms these are a palmately compound leaf structure as the leaflets all grow from the tip of the leafstalk.  Leaflets are round to oblong in shape with a central midrib from which flows a network of fine veins.

Each leaf has toothed (serrated) margins and both sides are smoothly and sparsely haired, (The Robinson Library, 2009).  The leaves are arranges in a spiral pattern so that every sixth leaf is above the first.

Flowers

The strawberry inflorescence is a modified stem terminated by a primary blossom.  Branches arise at nodes from buds in the axis of bracts along the stem.  On the wild strawberry plants in my garden, the corolla is made up of five, fairly broad white symmetrical petals that have a star shape appearance.  The caylx cupping the base of the corolla consists of ten tiny sepals.

Within the corolla lies 25 – 30 bright yellow stamens that seem to be to be arranged in a spiral pattern; these contain pollen and are the male reproductive structures.  Each stamen is made up of sacs containing pollen (anthers) on a filament or stalk.  The stamens appear to encircle a bright yellow structure consisting of numerous pistils also arranged in a spiral manner; this is the female part of the flower.  Within each pistil is a carpel containing a single ovary, a structure called an achene, which is the true fruit of the strawberry, (Handley, 1998).  Achenes develop into the fruit that become the small, beautiful bright red, strawberries that release an intense sweetness when eaten.

Artistic Impression

Fragaria Vesca

In observing the wild strawberry plants in hanging baskets on my veranda I see a gentle flowing form and I imagine strong etheric formative forces streaming out from the abundant green foliage.  I imagine warm astral forces surrounding the small red strawberry fruit as they peek out from behind their leafy shelter.  I have a sense of the cosmos in the flower and it resembles a star in the night sky for me.  I imagine cosmic light streaming out for I feel a beautiful harmony within this plant; it feels almost spiritual to me.  I am aware of feeling uplifted, a sense of kindness and lightness within my chest area when observing these plants.

In studying the wild strawberry plants in my garden, the roots do not seem to penetrate deeply into the earth, rather spreads via stolons and ‘daughter’ plants that embrace the earth like soft a green veil.  In this plant I have a strong impression of community; the way it spreads out and greets other plants growing nearby.  The one sidedness in the wild strawberry plant lies in its abundant green foliage that feels full of strong etheric forces.  The rhythmic centre of the plant feels as if it holds the balance between the roots (NS system) and flowers/fruit (metabolic system) with gentleness and love.  The delicate spiral form of the leaves seem to embrace and support their stolen all the way to the earth and along the stem to the flower and fruit.

The five beautiful white petals open from their calyx revealing their bright yellow centre to the cosmos.  Just as the roots look earthward, these flowers turn towards the sun soaking up its light and warmth in order to come to fruition in producing its small and intensely sweet strawberry fruit.  For some reason the wild strawberry carries a strong spiritual sense for me.  It seems to have bridge making capabilities between the sun and the earth, the cosmic, the soul and the physical earth.

Principles of Odoron Preparations

Health is a state of being experienced when all aspects of our being function in a dynamic harmonious balance.  Bodily systems continue to perform their catabolic (nerve-sense) and anabolic (metabolic-limb) processes maintained within a dynamic state of equilibrium monitored through the rhythmic system.  Illness occurs when an imbalance takes place within our body and equilibrium is lost between the upper and lower polarities.  If left uncorrected, physiological and spiritual imbalance within any organ opens the way for disease processes to take hold.  When faced with an organic disease, contemporary medicine often implements therapeutic methods designed to relieve pain or combat bacteria, viruses and allergens or to shrink cancer cells and so forth, (Wolff, 1998).  These methods are necessary and often produce a positive outcome for a while, especially during an acute phase of illness when the body is under severe stress.  However in many ways contemporary medicine has lost the view of the total person, (Wolff, 1998).  Medical treatments mainly focus on managing the isolated physical illness in dissociation with the wider soul and spiritual functions of the person, organ or system they are seeking to heal.  Unfortunately, long term these methods do not always promote healing.  For example, cancer cells can be pushed into remission, only to resurface of reappear in a different organ as metastases, (Wolff, 1998).

Rudolf Steiner (Husemann & Wolff, vol 2, 1987) tells us that ‘Healing is the restitution of the divine archetype of man’ (p.13) and through spiritual science, Steiner discovered organic pathways that mirror processes within plants and human kind alike (as well as animals’).  From these insights he developed the Odorons.

Rather than seeking to ‘combat’ organic disease, Steiner developed these therapeutic remedies from his knowledge and understanding of the physiological and spiritual nature of the organs and their relationship with human beings.  From this perspective every organ can be supported by a specific Odoron remedy that mirrors the formative forces that formed it and maintains the organ’s healthy function throughout life, (Husemann & Wolff, vol 2, 1987).  In this way the Odorons work towards establishing an archetypal image of healthy organic function, (Husemann & Wolff, vol 2, 1987).  The magic is that these remedies have a non-specific effect in a specific organ and stimulate healthy function, no matter what the deviation is, (Wolff, 1996).  This principle points out the pathway to health but does not force the organism it to take it; there is freedom of choice, (Wolff, 1998).  In this way the Odorons offer an organ-specific therapy that harnesses the nature of the organ, its relationship to humans and Steiner’s understanding of the principles of healing, (Wolff, 1998).  Steiner’s principle of offering the organism a picture of healthy function gave pharmacology and medicine a new treatment method, (Wolff, 1998).   From this standpoint I wish to consider Hepatodoron which is the Odoron specific for treatment for the liver

Quality/Potential Relevance of Specific Odoron

The liver is the central organ of metabolic anabolism and the largest organ in the body.  It lies below the diaphragm in the right upper quadrant of the abdominal cavity and extends approximately from the right 5th rib to the lower border of the rib cage.  Water is the carrier of the formative (etheric) forces and the liver is one of the most watery organs in the body.  It is an organ of assimilation as it converts substances for use within the body in an environment of intense warmth.  It produces bile which is vital for digestion, metabolises fats, carbohydrates and proteins and stores them as energy reserves, (Marieb, 2009).  It is also the organ of our will and as such has an important relationship with sugar.  Sugar allows the ego, the ‘I’ organisation, to penetrate deep within our body via warmth and the blood.  Imbalances in liver function can manifest in our ‘will function’ meaning that a person is unable to transform ideas and desires into action in the world, instead they remain in the thinking realm, (Maret, n.d.)

One of the important liver activities lies in carbohydrate metabolism which begins with digestion in the small intestine.  As the blood enters the liver from the intestine via the portal vein, the liver ‘monitors’ the sugar concentration of the blood.  If the liver recognises that blood sugar is ‘too sweet’, it converts glucose into glycogen by the process of glycogenesis (anabolism), (Buhler, 1979).  Glycogen is stored in the liver and muscles until needed at some later time when glucose levels are low, then hormones are secreted to stimulate the conversion of glycogen to glucose, a process called glycogenolysis (catabolism).  As healthy functioning of the sense-nerve system is completely dependent upon stable blood glucose levels, our body must have a way of stablising blood glucose.  This is one of the major gifts the liver gives to human kind, especially it’s polar opposite the nerve-sense system.  These complex processes can also be found in the plant kingdom and Jachens (2008) asserts that plants and man are inwardly related by being subjected to the same laws of creation (p.50).

If this is so, then what are the similarities between the metabolism of sugar in the liver and sugars in plants that make the odoron’s so special to human kind?  Green plants are the only plants that produce oxygen and make food, through the process called photosynthesis which means ”putting together with light.”  This takes place in chloroplasts that are in the cells of the leaf.  These contain a pigment called chlorophyll that plants require to produce food.  Chlorophyll absorbs the sunlight, and from sunlight green plants combine carbon dioxide and water to make sugar and oxygen.  Plants then use the sugar products of photosynthesis to produce carbohydrates which are converted into useful energy that plants use to grow and reproduce.  As many of these plants are a food source for animals, we can recognise that plant carbohydrates processes are aligned with carbohydrate processes in animals and humans alike, (Bettelheim, Brown & March, 2004).

Hepatodoron

The relevance of the substance Hepatodoron to the liver is that it mirrors healthy archetypal metabolic processes, especially of carbohydrate and protein anabolism, that are permeated with intense warmth processes, (Pelikan, 1997).  Hepatodoron is a liver-specific medication that is made from dried leaves of the Vitus vinifera (grape vine) and Fragaria vesca (wild strawberry).  The wild strawberry is a woodland plant that will grow in shady and sunny habitats alike; its sugar production results in fleshy receptacles containing numerous achenes, (Bott, 1978).  In contrast the grape vine requires full sunlight for the synthesis of its sugars, the accumulation of which is seen in its fruit, the bunch of grapes, (Bott, 1978).

Hepatodoron is made from the leaves of these two plants, not the fruit.  In the leaves the sugar process of ‘becoming’ is still fully active where as the fruit is the end product of its active process, (Bott, 1978).  As a result, the wild strawberry and the grape vine leaves have an inner affinity with the formative forces of the liver.  Although these plants share the commonality of active sugar production, in other ways they have polarically opposite characteristics.  This allows the remedy to act as a balancer between different predispositions of the liver.  According to Wolff, (1996) the wild strawberry leaves acts as a metabolic cleanser and stimulates human protein formation while the grape vine leaves stimulate carbohydrate metabolism, especially glycogen production.  Thus the qualities in Hepatodoron seek to show the liver the healthy functions it may have lost, especially with regard to carbohydrate and protein anabolism.  This is important because healthy metabolism of these substances facilitates the ability of the ego, the “I” organisation, to penetrate deep within the body.  This harnesses our will and ability to transform dreams and ideas into actions within the world.

Hepatodoron is a treatment that is appropriate to support healthy liver function at any time.  It is not just recommended for treating a specific liver disorder or disease, rather it is a basic medication for showing the liver it’s pathway to health again, (Wolff, 1998).

Concluding Response

From a scientific viewpoint I found it hard to understand certain aspects of the Odorons, yet on a higher universal level the principles behind these medications make sense.  There is no doubt in my mind that Steiner was able to perceive the spiritual forces within the organs of our body and plants alike.  He perceived that spiritual forces that permeate the form, life and consciousness of our liver, are also mirrored within the plant substances contained in Hepatodoron.  In fact the whole medicinal Odoron family offer a new healing principle; one based of presenting an archetypal image of healthy organic functioning and allowing the organ freedom to choose health ~ or not. 

Through these substances Steiner offered the principle to restore healthy organic function rather than another remedy to ‘fight disease’.  For me this principle mirrors human evolution.  Through questions that have arisen from this assignment, I realize that if ‘healing is the restitution of the divine archetype of man’, we all have the freedom to ‘wake up’ and seek the higher archetypal spiritual impulses that dwell within us ~ or not.

Patricia Russell

April 2012

References

Bettelhein, F., Brown, W., & March, J., (2004). Introduction To General, Organic and Biochemistry, Thomson Brooks/Cole, Thomson Learning, 10 Davis Drive, Belmont, CA 94002, USA
Handley, David., (1998), The Strawberry Plant, What You Should Know, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, Highmore Farm, P.O. Box 179, Monmouth, Marine 04259
Huseman, F., & Wolff, O., (1987), The Anthroposophical Approach to Medicine Vol 11, The Anthroposophical Press Inc, Hudson, New York
Jachens, L. (2006). Healing the skin. London: Temple Lodge.
Maret, K., (n.d.) Importance of the Liver for Healing, AnthroMedLibiary, http://www.anthromed.org/Article.aspx?artpk=531, viewed 10/04/2012
Marieb, Elaine N., (2009). Essentials of Human Anatomy & Physiology, Ninth Edition, Pearson Benjamin Cummings, 1301 Sansome Street, San Francisco, CA 94111

Melco., Mulysa, (n.d.) Wild Strawberries, http://garden.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Wild_Strawberries, viewed 17/03/2012
Plants For a Future, (n.d.) Fragaria vesca ‘Semperflorens, http://www.pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?latinname=Fragaria+vesca+’Semperflorens’‘, viewed 18/03/2012
Pelikan., W., (1997), Healing Plants ~ Insights Through Spiritual Science, Mercury Press, Fellowship Community, 241 Hungry Hollow Road, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Strawberry Plant.Org, (2010). Anatomy of the Strawberry Plant, http://strawberryplants.org/2010/05/strawberry-plant/, viewed 18/03/2012
The Robinson Library, (2009) The Parts of a Leaf,
http://www.robinsonlibrary.com/science/botany/anatomy/leafparts.htm, viewed 31/03/2012
Keats, K., (n.d.) Family, Healing Herbs in Anthroposophical Medicine
Wellik, M. J., (2009), Growing Alpine Strawberries, http://www.thestrawberrystore.com/buyplants/index.php?main_page=page&id=1, viewed 17/03/2012
Wild Strawberries, Interesting Facts About The Virginia Strawberry (2012) http://growingstrawberryplants.info/wild-strawberries-interesting-facts-about-the-virginia-strawberry.html, viewed 15/03/2012
Wolff, O. (1998). Remedies for typical diseases, Mercury Press c/o The Fellowship Community, 241 Hungry Hollow Road, Spring Valley, NY 10977

Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Plant Study

MELISSA OFFICINALIS

Introduction

I chose to look at Melissa officinalis for this assignment.  Drawings 4 and 5 are done from illustrations as the Melissa in my garden is devoid of flowers.  Through this assignment I chose to use the name Melissa, lemon balm and balm while writing about this amazing herb.

Growing Environment

Melissa officinalis is commonly known as lemon balm because of its citrus scent of lemons.  Its leaves are highly aromatic and release a lemon fragrance when crushed.  Lemon balm is a flowering herb that is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa although it is now grown all over the world. The aerial parts of the herb are usually used for medicinal purposes and collected before the flowers bloom.  Melissa, a member of the Lamiaceae (mint family), belongs to the genus Melissa,  In this case the species is officinalis and common names include balm, English lemon balm, common balm, balm mint, Melissa sweet mint, heart’s delight and honey plant (Bone, 2003).  Melissa (Lemon Balm) grows wild in New Zealand and Australia, sometimes in sunny fields and along roadsides.

Lemon Balm is easily cultivated by seed or root division and usually tolerates poor, sandy soils and full sun or partial shade.  It is tolerant of droughts and should be kept dry in winter as it can be susceptible to rust.  Apart from being cut back after flowering, lemon balm needs little attention.  The roots may be divided into small pieces, with three or four buds to each, and planted 2 feet apart in ordinary garden soil. The only culture required is to keep the herb free from weeds and to cut off the decayed stalks in autumn, and then to stir the ground between the roots.  It also needs thinning out at times to allow for good air circulation (Bremness, 1990)  In my garden it grows well in a partially shaded area surrounded by wild strawberries and other members of the mint family.

Botany

•  Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) is a hardy perennial plant that can grow to a height of 80 centimetres.  It often has a bushy appearance.
•  It has short rootstock that usually spreads horizontally underneath the soil (rhizomatous).
• The slightly heart shaped leaves, which are light green, crinkled and slightly hairy, grow in a rhythmical pattern of opposing pairs along a square shaped branching stem.
• Each pair of leaves grows at right angles to the pair above and below it, is ovate in shape with serrated edges containing an essential oil with a lemon scent.
• When touch or crushed they release a lemony fragrance, (Bremness, 1990).   The leaves are petiolate as a petiole connects the leaf to the stem.  They have a central vein and are wider at the base then the apex of the leaf.
• The little flowers grow in whorled clusters and although often white, the flowers may also be pale yellow maturing to pale lilac and are arranged in irregular whorls at leaf nodes on the upright stems.  Five fused sepals and petals make up the trumpet like flowers which are hermaphrodite having both male and female organs, (Plants for a Future, n.d.).   The buds usually open early morning until about noon and the flowers live on average for about 24 hours.

ARTISTIC OBSERVATIONS

Melissa Officinalis

Melissa, abundant and gentle,

Graceful bringer of warmth and air

Whose fragrance helps us to feel uplifted and restored

It speaks to the feminine and the rhythms of the moon,

Its warmth and air dances through us

Calming our thoughts

Measuring our hearts rhythm

While it carries us to sleep

Taking us gently into the spiritual world allowing us to merge with our higher self

 First Impression

Gracefulness, lightness, openness and rhythm were my first impressions of this herb.

There is a sense of warmth as well, although a ‘softer’ warmth than in other members of this family, such as rosemary.  Lemon balm has an upright gracefulness that seems different to other members of the Lamiaceae family growing in my garden.  I encounter a sensation of lightness and gentleness when observing this herb.  When I observe the abundance of this herb’s rich leaf growth, I feel as if the lemon balm is revealing all of its self to me, hiding only its shallow roots and tiny white flowers.  I also have an impression of feminine energy that invokes a picture of the movement of water and the moon in my mind.  I feel surprised as I have never connected the Lamiaceae family with the feminine before.  The growth pattern of the leaves along the stem brings me a sense of rhythm that also leads me to think of water.  After touching the leaves I encounter a refreshing and uplifting lemony fragrance rather than the stronger, almost fiery, fragrance of other members of the mint family.

There is sense of a warm gentle breeze moving through the leaves.  I can imagine the colours of the earth rising up and changing to a light green and golden yellow as the breeze carries its essence up through the plant.  Lemon balm is a herb that waits quietly to be noticed; it does not have eye catching flowers.  Yet everything about this herb feels upright, gentle and true, bringing an impression of ‘touching my heart’.  This is because Melissa’s gentle nature and balancing substances connect strongly with our rhythmic system.  In looking at this herb right now, my body feels relaxed, uplifted and quiet.

Form and Gesture

Lemon balm’s form takes on a ‘rounded bushy’ appearance due to the herbs abundant rich, green foliage.  For me the rich foliage shows me the gift of abundance, in this case of curative properties.  The balm in my garden has more of an upright, ethereal form than other mint varieties.  The leaves have a rhythmical movement that flows along the stem expressing their desire for connection and social intercourse.  Lemon balm’s largest gesture is one of openness, an invitation to share in its curative energies.  If I understood its language, Lemon balm could well be say “Try me, show you value and appreciate me, and I will share my gifts with you”, (Herbalpedia, 2006).

Drawing 1

Rhizome Roots

•  Grow underground ~ are underground stems
•  Grow horizontally just beneath the soils surface
•  Continues to grow along and creep under the surface
•  Have lots and lots of growing points
•  Buds that form at the joints produce new shoots

Drawing 2

Leaves and Stem

• Has light green ‘heart’ shaped leaves
• Crinkled leaves that are slightly hairy
• Leaves grow in rhythmical pattern of opposite pairs along a square shaped stem
• Leaves are ovate in shape with serrated edges
• Petiole connects leaves to the stem
• Leaves are wider at the base and have a central vein

Drawing 3

Close up of Leaf

•  Crinkly appearance and slightly hairy
• Central vein
• Slightly heart shaped
• Base is wider than the apex of the life
• Leaves are petiolate as they are connected to the leaf stem via a petiole.

Drawings 4 and 5

Longitudinal section of flower

• Flowers grow in irregular whorled clusters on upright stem
• They arise from stem axil where the leaf stem meets the stem
• Five fused sepals and petals (corolla) form the tubular bell shaped trumpet like flower
• Have 4 stamens, 2 longer than the other

Fruit

   Ovary has a ring at its base that gives off nectar that later form fruit made up of ovoid nutlets.

Description of Healing Properties

Lemon balm has a long standing reputation as a calming and uplifting herb.  Its active healing properties contain a citral-type essential oil, bitter principles, flavonoids and other ancillary substances, (Fisher & Painter, 1996).  According to Bone, (2003) the volatile oils have a carminative, relaxing and regulating effect on the body, especially the central nervous system.  The phenolic acid derivatives contribute to its antiviral activity.  Balm’s main healing actions are carminative, sedative, antispasmodic, diaphoretic and an antiviral agent.  Melissa’s calming effect on the central nervous system helps to regulate cardiac function which in turn improves cardiac output resulting in reduced blood pressure and improved peripheral circulation, (Bone, 2003).  From a systems perspective, lemon balm’s healing properties are considered effective in treating:

Nervous system ~ Sleep disturbances, especially if due to nervous anxiety and stress related issues.  It can also be effective for managing migraines, nervous tension, shock and vertigo.  Its carminative actions help to relieve the effects of tension headaches, stress, feelings of excitability and restlessness, (Fisher & Painter, 1996).

Circulatory system ~ Lemon balm is considered a heart tonic, slowing its action, relieving palpations and lowering blood pressure.  It acts as a vasodilator on the peripheral circulation helping to support heart function and peripheral circulation, (Fisher & Painter, 1996).

Respiratory system ~ Melissa is also used to promote healing for respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, chronic coughs, colds and influenza.  It also promotes ‘sweating’ via the skin as a fever management method, (Bone, 2003).

Digestive System ~ Lemon balm can be effective in relieving flatulence and colic.  The bitters in this herb stimulate the production of digestive secretions thus helping to alleviate symptoms of indigestion, dyspepsia and nausea, especially when associated with anxiety and depression (Fisher & Painter, 1996).  It also promotes detoxification by stimulating liver and gall bladder function, (Bone, 2003).

Reproductive system ~ As well as promoting menstruation and conception, lemon balm also brings relief from menstrual symptoms, especially painful periods.  According to Fisher & Painter (1996) Melissa is safe to use during pregnancy for treating morning sickness and pregnancy induced headaches.

Other Uses ~ Melissa is thought to enhance immune system health by fighting bacteria and viruses; in fact clinical studies in Germany showed that it displays potent antiviral activity against herpes simplex when used topically, (Hoppe, 1999).  Applied externally as an essential oil diluted with carrier oils, such as almond, lemon balm can bring relief from insect bites, hives, and other blemishes.  Melissa is also thought to be useful in treating hyperthyroidism as it inhibits the receptor binding and biological activity of immunoglobulins in the blood of patients with Graves’s disease, a condition which results in hyperthyroidism (Bone, 2003).

Contraindications

Clinical trials generally report no adverse reactions  It is considered safe to use during pregnancy and lactation and also considered safe for children.  There are no side effects expected if taken within the normal recommended dose range.  Although rare, some people may have sensitivity to topical applications of products containing lemon balm. (Bone, 2003).

Three Fold Perspectives

In considering the healing properties of medicinal plants, Rudolf Steiner found that a plant with healing properties often grows in an unbalanced manner.  In contrast, non-medicinal plants are usually ideally proportioned in their growth pattern (Douch, 2004).  For health, human kind needs balance between the nerve-sense and metabolic systems; a healthy rhythmic system provided this balance.  Reversely in plants an imbalance between these three main systems, as in Melissa, reveals a healing quality.

Melissa’s rhizomatous roots penetrate the cool still earth, corresponding with the cool stillness of the nerve-sense system of a human being.  The tiny flowers correspond with the processes of the metabolic-limb system in human beings.  The leaf area of the plant corresponds to the middle realm, rhythmic system of human kind.

The imbalance in lemon balm’s growth is apparent when considering its roots, foliage and flower.  The rhizomatous roots penetrate the earth in a horizontal fashion remaining fairly shallow in the soil.  The lemon balm flower is small, almost insignificant among the abundant foliage, indicating that the metabolic processes are not strong in this herb.  In observing Melissa’s abundant, rich, green foliage, it is easy to see that all this plants energy is directed toward the rhythmic processes.

As a bearer of ‘warmth and air’ in the body, lemon balm requires the suns warmth for healthy growth and development of its therapeutic gifts.  In many ways the leaves of this herb represent the uniqueness of the blossom for they contain the volatile oils that contain its curative substances and refreshing, uplifting fragrance, (Husemann & Wolfe, 1982).  Balm’s abilities to calm, relax and regulate show us its gift of maintaining balance between the top and lower poles of the body while regulating our cardiac and respiratory rhythms.  This is also highlighted in lemon balm’s healing medicinal properties as already described.

Traditional Ways of Using Melissa

In Greek the genus name Melissa means ‘bee’ and it is thought that was named for its ability to attract bees.  It was thought that placing lemon balm near bee hives would encourage the bees to return ‘home’ plus attract other bees to join them, (The Herb Society of America, 2007).  According to Stern, (1992) officinalis means ‘used in medicine’, indicating that historically lemon balm was used for medicinal purposes, either by itself or mixed with other herbs.  Early herbalists praised lemon balm for its refreshing, uplifting qualities and used it for treating symptoms of melancholy.  It was believed that lemon balm ‘makes the heart merry and joyful’ (The Herb Society of America, 2007)

About two thousand years ago, Pedanius Dioscorides, a physician traveling throughout the Roman Empire with Emperor Nero’s army, collected samples of the local medicinal herbs everywhere he went.  He believed that Melissa was effective for promoting menstruation, relieving menstrual problems, gout, toothache, scorpion stings and dog bites, (Entheology.org, (n.d.)  Another physician and alchemist, Paracelsus, called Melissa the ‘elixir of life’ as he believed it increased a person’s strength and lengthened their life.  (Brown, 2001).  In the 17^th century the Carmelite religious order created a concoction called Carmelite water which was believed to improve nervous headaches, neuralgia as well as promoting longevity.  Although mixed with other herbs, lemon balm was the main ingredient in Carmelite water, (Herbalpedia, 2006)

In Europe people threw balm on the floor to freshen the rooms and until the 19^th century it was scattered amongst church pews for its fragrance and antiseptic qualities.  People scrubbed their floors, kitchen table and toilet area with a lemon balm concoction to keep insects out of the home.  They used to hang small bags of dried lemon balm in their closets for the herbs lemon fragrance.  Historically lemon balm oil, along with lavender oil, was used to polish furniture, (Colonial Dames of America, 1995).  In rituals, lemon balm was often used in the pursuit of romance as it was considered a herb that attracts love into a person’s life and it is believed that it was once used by the Goddess Diana in her temples.

Today lemon balm has multiple gifts to offer us and I have already covered many of its medicinal uses.  In the world of magical rituals it is still used for invoking the Goddess.  It can be used when sharing a ritual bath with a loved partner or simply to help a person find fulfillment in their personal dreams.  Using lemon balm opens us to the divine love of the Goddess.  It is also thought that Lemon balm draws healthy energy towards people using it thus making them more appealing to the world of love and romance (Herbalpedia, 2006).

Anthroposophical Use of Melissa

From an Anthroposophical perspective, lemon balm brings a gentle ‘warmth and airing’ through the body.  As such it supports the warmth process in the body encouraging stronger incarnation when needed.  It also helps to balance the relationship between water and air and according to Husemann & Wolfe (1982), this herb is ‘used for all complaints stemming from insufficient airing through the body’, p330.  From this perspective lemon balm can bring relief from upper respiratory complaints where this relationship is out of balance, such a catarrh and convulsive coughing, (Husemann & Wolfe, 1982).

Melissa appears to have a relaxing and calming influence on the central nervous system whose many branches has a regulatory effect within the body.  When applied in an oil form or used as a compress, its fragrance calms feelings of anxiety helping to release muscle tightness and tension held in the body.  For this reason lemon balm is a valuable substance in helping to relieve the pain of migraines and other types of nervous tension headaches.

The warming and airing influence of lemon balm can rebalance digestive disorders, especially symptoms related to anxiety and stress.  Its anti-spasmodic ability helps release muscle spasms throughout the digestive tract relieving abdominal discomfort, flatulence, indigestion and feeling of nausea (The Herb Society of America, 2007).  Melissa’s ability to bring ‘warmth and air’ also allows its curative qualities to calm, relax and regulate the rhythmical function of the reproductive organs, helping to promote the menses or conception or to bring relief from uncomfortable menstrual symptoms.

On the whole, lemon balms action is focused mainly in the direction of the rhythmic system.   According to Pelikan (1997) lemon balm may be prescribed to regulate cardiac palpitations, angina and cardiac symptoms brought on by anxiety.  Stress and feeling of anxiety have an adverse effect on the rhythmic system, which in turn has an adverse effect on the nerve-sense and metabolic-limb systems.   Melissa’s quieting effects on the central nervous system aids heart function and circulation through restoring rhythmical balance.

From a spiritual perspective lemon balm is strongly connected to the feminine, hence its strong connection with our organs of reproduction.  It has long been respected as a herb that balances feelings and emotions, helping to resolve moodiness and melancholia.  Its enlivening fragrance can treat feelings of melancholy, lifting our mood and ‘make our heart merry’ again.   Symbolically, Melissa guides us as we negotiate the misty, emotional pull of the moon’s forces, helping us to view our thoughts and feelings without getting lost in them, (Herbalpedia, 2006).

In nursing therapies some methods of working with lemon balm include:

• –          Rhythmical body oiling
• –          Compresses
• –          Inhalations
• –          Tea
• –          Footbath
• –          Fragrance through oil burners

In Conclusion

 I have a strong sense of the feminine and moon elements in lemon balm that I never realised existed before.  It is a sacred herb, loved and respected by alchemists through past centuries.  The flowers almost have a ‘flirty’ appearance as the peek out from the lower stems, revealing very little.  I very much like the feeling of gentle, open airiness about this herb.

Its warm uplifting fragrance penetrates the whole plant, just as its warm airiness gently penetrates all realms of our body.  Its calming properties connect strongly with our rhythmic system supporting this realm to maintain its balancing and mediation roles between the upper and lower poles of the body.  It is interesting to realize that a gift of Melissa, a herb strongly connected with our rhythmic realm, lends its abundant gifts to promoting calmness and relaxation to the whole body.

References

Bone, K., (2003). A Clinical Guide to Blending Clinical Herbs- Herbal formulations for individual patients, Churchill Livingstone, 11830 Westline Industrial Drive, St Louis, Missouri, 63146
Bremness, L., (1990). Herbs Pocket Encyclopedia, Dorling Kindersley Limited, 9 Henrietta Street, London WC2E8SP
Brown, Deni. (2001). The Herb Society of America new encyclopedia of herbs and their uses, New York, DK, http://www.herbsociety.org
Colonial Dames of America, (1995). Herbs and herb lore of Colonial America, New York, Dover.
Douch, G. Dr. (2004) Medicine for the Whole Person A Guide to Anthroposophical Treatment, Floris Books, Poland
Entheology.org, (n.d.) Preserving Ancient Sacred Knowledge ~ Melissa Officinalis, Lemon Balm http://www.entheology.org/edoto/anmviewer.asp?a=376, accessed 27/4/2011
Fisher, C. & Painter, G., (1996) Materia Medicia Of Western Herbs For The Southern Hemisphere, 651 West Coast Road, Oratia, Auckland, New Zealand
Herbalpedia, (2006). Lemon Balm, The Herb Growing & Marketing Network, PO Box 245, Silver Spring, PA 17575-0245; 717, http://www.herbalpedia.com/lemon balm-hoy profile.pdf, accessed 03/04/2011
Hoppe, J., (1999). Melissa: Lemon balm as a topical treatment for herpes simplex virus , Medical Herbalism, Journal for the Clinical Practitioner, Medical Herbalism 11(4):13,16 , http://medherb.com/Materia_Medica/Melissa_-_Topical_Treatment_for_Herpes_Simplex_Virus.htmaccessed 25/02/2011
Huseman, F., & Wolfe, O., (1982), The Anthroposophical Approach to Medicine Vol 1, The Anthroposophical Press Inc, Spring Valley, New York
Monterey Bay Spice Company (n.d.) Lemon Balm Healing Properties, http://www.herbco.com/p-523-lemon-balm-powder.aspx viewed 26/02/2011
The Herb Society of America, (2007). Lemon Balm, An Herb Society of America Guide, 9019 Kirtland Chardon Rd, Kirtland, Ohio 44094, http://www.herbalpedia.com/lemon%20balm-hoy%20profile.pdf, accessed 16/04/2011
Pelikan., W., (1997), Healing Plants ~ Insights Through Spiritual Science, Mercury Press, Fellowship Community, 241 Hungry Hollow Road, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Plants For A Future, (n.d.). Melissa Officinalis, http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=melissa%20officinalis, accesses 03/04/2011
Stern, William T. (1992). Botanical Latin, Newton Abbot, Devon

Lavender Plant Study

LAVENDER PLANT STUDY

Introduction

Growing Environment

The two basic requirements for successful lavender growing are full sun and good drainage (McNaughton, 2000).  A native of the Mediterranean region, the main elements that seem to influence lavender growth are the quality of soil, the climate, the amount of watering done and pruning.  We have a lot of lavender Dentata successfully growing in our garden (often called French Lavender). It forms large shrubs and most of the year is covered with light purple flowers.  It grows in a raised bed that captures the warmth of the full sun during the day.  We built the garden using good soil and ensured good drainage; watering takes place via a sprinkler system during the summer.  Although the lavender grows well without too much water, it can become dehydrated if left for too long.  We prune every February and December, a ritual that seems to suit this lavender.  The lavender grows well along side a lemon tree, a variety of daisies, fragrant geraniums and a mixture of other plants.  In the front garden it flourishes well along side a variety of succulents and trees.

The Botany of Lavender (in this case Lavender Dentata)

–          The plant has fine, shallow fibrous roots

–          A central brown, woody stem arises above the earth, and number of woody stems branch off this main stem.  All the stems grow upwards showing a very straight gesture.  The cotyledons are not visible on this particular plant

–          The lower ¼ of the woody stems are almost bare with only a few leaves in place.  The foliage colour is an even shade of mid-green

–          The leaves are very small at the lower pole of the stem becoming longer and slightly wider as they ascend upwards

–          The leaves, which are coated by a layer of fine hair, are oblong in nature and grow with an upright gesture from the node. The leaf margin has a dentate (toothed) pattern

–          The leaves have a decussate arrangement around the stem in that they are placed opposite to one another, then rotated by 90% with another pair of opposite leaves

–          The leaves arise out of the nodes of the stem and each node is separated by an inter-nodal space.  They appear to be covered with a very fine down of hair

–          Multiple leaves branch from each node giving the plant a bushy appearance especially towards the middle of the plant

–          Except for a coat of very fine hair, the last 10 cm of the stem (the peduncle) is clean, without any leaves.  The peduncle is square in shape and a green-grey colour

–          The top of the peduncle merges with the inflorescence (lavender spike) which consists of a single main axis bearing a number of short stalked flowers.

–          The lower end of the lavender spike is formed by petals called bracts.  These bracts are fertile and contain the plants seeds.  The fertile bracts are broad and arranged in vertical rows

–          The spike has a number of bracts that encircle that encircle the length of the spike

–          The intermediate part of the lavender spike contains the bracteole which terminates in small flower structures called corollas

–          The terminal part of the lavender spike consists of a beautiful open flower head which is formed by sterile bracts.  The youngest flowers are near the top of the spike

–          In the case of Lavender Dentata these sterile bracts are quite small compared to other species of Lavender I have seen

DRAWINGS

First Impressions

When I look at the upright gesture of the Lavender plant, I have an impression that the plant is in a hurry to merge with the light and warmth of the sun.  The roots look very fine, almost as if there was not enough time for them to penetrate the earth deeply; there is a sense that this plant is not interested in the earths cool, still nature.  In the leaves there is a sense of randomness and order at the same time.  The foliage close to the earth seems to grow in a scanty, unorganized way while the foliage higher up the flower stem seems to have more of an ordered, bushy growth pattern.  Never the less, there is an impression of untidiness when first observing this single plant.  On mass the foliage forms a green canvas.

There is sense of warm air swirling through the leaves and flower stems of this plant.  I can imagine the golden warmth of the sun dancing with the lavender, especially in the summer months.  Everything about this particular lavender is upright, straight and true giving the impression that the plant ‘knows it is lavender’ and what its purpose in life is.  My sense is that its strong metabolic forces are tempered with the gentle nature of the rhythmic system allowing the lavender’s perfume to bring peace and calmness to our soul.  Like the leaves, the flower itself seems impatient for the suns light and warmth.  The flower rises up on its stem, leaving the leaf region behind as it pushes upwards.  In the lavender spike there is an impression of secrecy and openness at the same time.  The lower bracts hide the plant’s seeds while the flower rises majestically from the top of the spike, opening to the world like beautiful, delicate butterfly wings.  In looking at the lavender plant right now, I have an impression of a noble, strong plant with gentle independence.

Drawing One

Leaves from the Lavender Dentata.

–          These lavender leaves are an even mid-green colour

–          The leaves seem to arise directly from the node

–          The node is a slightly paler green colour than the leaves

–          The leaves are oblong in shape

–          In the longer leaf the widest part appears to be in the middle

–          The leaves have a single vein through the middle

–          The leaf margin as a ‘toothed’ appearance with ‘teeth’ type structures arising in pairs from the central vein

–          The undersides of the leaves are a lighter shade of green

Drawing Two

Stem with Terminal Bud

–          The stem has a square shape and is a lighter green than the leaves

–          It rises up in a very straight gesture and is covered in very fine hairs, especially towards the top at the peduncle

–          There are nodes and internodes spaces along the stem

–          The leaves arise from the nodes with a straight gesture

–          The leaves are smaller at the lower part of the stem, longer and wider towards the top

–          At the top of the stem the peduncle supports the terminal flower bud

–          The peduncle is thinner than the lower stem

–          The peduncle is a lighter green than the leaves

–          The bracts enfold the terminal bud and are tightly closed

–          There is a darker area along the bud where the bracts meet each other

Drawing Three

Terminal Bud

–          The peduncle is a lighter green than the stem below

–          The peduncle supports a terminal bud

–          The bracts of the terminal bud encircle the bud and are tightly closes

–          The bracts seem to have small pointed shape at the centre that is darker green in colour

–          The bottoms of the bracts are a paler green with very fine darker green lines running through them

–          The tip of a dark purple structure peeks out from the centre of each bract

–          The tip of the bud is pointed and appears as if it is starting to open

–          The bud has a coating of very fine hairs

Drawing Four

Lavender Spike on Stem

–          The flower stalk, the peduncle has a square type shape

–          The lavender spike also has a square look about it

–          The fertile bracts have opened revealing the small flowers, the corollas

–          The sterile bracts are the more conspicuous part of the inflorescence (the lavender spike) as they open at the top

–          The inflorescence with a layer of very fine hairs and it has a purple/green/grey appearance

–          All the corollas and petals of the flower head grow in an upright gesture

Drawing Five

Inflorescence (Lavender Spike)

–          The peduncle has a square shape and merges into the lower, fertile bracts that contain the seeds that are full of oil

–          The inflorescent is about 5 cm long

–          The bracts encircle the spike in vertical rows

–          The bracts are covered with a layer of very fine hair that lends a grayish colour the purple and green hues.

–          The purple colour of the bracts spreads from their tip to about ¾ of the down bract where to purple merges with a pale green colour

–          The corollas have emerged from the bracts and some have opened revealing a beautiful, delicate looking purple flower

–          Other corollas remain closed showing only their dark purple tip which arises from the green bracteoles

–          The sterile bract at the top of the inflorescence arises majestically with an open gesture towards the suns warmth and light.  The flower head is pale purple in colour with the tip a slightly deeper purple colour than the lower part of the flower head

–          The flowers are very beautiful and very delicate; they give the impression that a butterfly had landed on the top of the lavender

Lavender’s Healing Qualities

Lavender has long been known for its calming, healing, strengthening and fragrant qualities, Greenstone, 1999).  In ancient Egypt, the Egyptians recognized the preserving qualities of lavender and use it in the embalming process.  The Greeks rubbed lavender on their lower limbs for its calming qualities; they recognized its ability to penetrate the body and calm the senses.  The ancient Romans recognized lavender for its healing and antiseptic qualities.  They washed in lavender washed to keep insects away, (History of Lavender, 2004).  They also took lavender internally as it was found to have a relieving effect on digestive disorders.  The Romans also used lavender for its antiseptic qualities in treating wounds, burns and skin ailments.  People scattered lavender on the floor of their homes to freshen the air and fumigate sick rooms.  It was also used as incense for religious ceremonies.  The calming and relaxing qualities of lavender also helped those with menstrual problems, kidney disorders, jaundice and dropsy.  (History of Lavender, 2004)

During the middle ages, lavender was mainly grown in monasteries where monks and nuns preserved knowledge of herbal law in their medicinal gardens.  However this changed when Henry 8^th dissolved the monasteries and lavender moved to domestic gardens.  Women started to dry and place lavender into bags and their linen chests introducing its bringing its fragrance and qualities into their homes.  During Elizabethan times lavender was mixed with beeswax and rubbed into oak furniture to give it a high gloss and purify the air.  People saw lavender as a herb they could use to guard themselves against infection, especially during the Great Plague of the 17^th century (Allardice, 1998).

So lavender has long been known for its fragrance, healing and calming, restorative and balancing, antiseptic and antibacterial qualities.  Lavender has also been used topically for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic qualities (Moore, n.d.).

Although the plant, flowers and seeds all have the distinct lavender fragrance, the oil derived from the flowers is the most important medicinal component.  This is because lavender oil contains different chemicals that complement one another giving lavender its broad range of healing properties.   Moore (n.d.) asserts that lavender oil contains the natural alcohol linalool; ketones, esters; and aldehydes

–          Linalol provides lavender’s antiseptic properties by effectively killing bacteria and viruses.  Linalol also helps healing skin irritations including burns, wounds, acne and sores

–          The aldehydes in lavender are responsible for its distinct aroma and soothing properties

–          The ketones in lavender effectively reduce pain and inflammation and help induce sleep

–          The esters in lavender reduce soreness and swelling, prevent muscle spasms, fight fungal infections and prevent scarring.  They also help relieve tension, depression and hysteria, and they help regulate moods

(Chemical list is printed with the permission of the author)

Three Fold Principles

In considering the healing properties of medicinal plants, Rudolf Steiner found that a plant with healing properties often grows in an unbalanced manner.  In contrast, non-medicinal plants are usually ideally proportioned in their growth pattern (Douch, 2004).  To enjoy good health, human beings need balance between the nerve-sense and metabolic systems.  Balance between these two poles of the body is achieved and maintained through a healthy rhythmic system.  However, in plants an imbalance between these three main areas reveals a healing quality, as in the lavender.

The roots of the lavender, which penetrate the cool, still earth corresponds with the nerve-sense system, the still, cool area of a human being.  The lavender flower, with its strong metabolic processes corresponds with the metabolic-limb system in human beings.  This leaves the leaf region, which corresponds to the rhythmic system in a human being.  The imbalance in the lavenders growth is apparent when considering its roots, foliage and flower.  Although the roots of the lavender draw minerals and water from the earth, they remain surprisingly fine and fibrous.

As the cosmic warmth of the sun fills the plant; it diminishes the water element and allows the lavender fragrance to permeate the whole plant.  This cosmic warmth gives the plant stem its dry, woody appearance and its leaves their dry, contracted spiky appearance, (Pelikan, 1997).  The plants whole concentration is focused on pushing upwards towards the sun to ensure the development and fruition of its flowers.  All its energy is given to this metabolic activity.  These imbalances in the lavenders growth become a gift to human kind because the therapeutic application of lavender supports the warmth and air processes in the human body (Husemann & Wolfe, 1982).

It is interesting to realize that a gift of the lavender, a plant with such fierce metabolic processes, lends itself to promoting relaxation and calmness to the nerve-sense system in human beings.

Traditional Use of Lavender

The historical record of lavender being used dates back to over 1,000 years.  Popin (n.d.) claims it was used for driving away evil spirits, calming the emotions, soothing the nerves and restoring well being.  Traditionally lavender oil is better remembered as an antiseptic agent and people used lavender in their bath and washing water, for its fragrance and antiseptic properties.  In fact the Latin name for Lavender is ‘lavare’, meaning ‘to wash’.  People spread lavender on the floor in their homes to sweeten and purify the air; religious houses used it as cleansing and purifying incense.  In some cultures it was used as an expectorant and antispasmodic and other cultures used it as an embalming fluid, (Popin, n.d.).

It was mixed with bees wax and used as a furniture polish to shine and protect the wood as well as for its fragrance.  People also used lavender to repel insects, treat lice and to perfume potpourri.  Women wore it in their cleavage with the hopes of attracting a suitor.  Throughout the ages different cultures have used lavender, for its healing and its antibacterial and anti fungal properties, as part of their medicinal remedies.  Traditionally, it appears that many cultures have long known, and valued, the healing qualities of lavender.

Anthroposophical Perspective

From an Anthroposophical perspective lavender is valued and respected for its calming and restorative properties (Pelikan, 1997).  When comparing lavender to the three-fold human being, I can see that it has a strong relationship to the lower pole of the body, the metabolic-limb system.  The warmth element seems to penetrate virtually the whole of the plant and in the body is carried by the “I” organisation in the blood.  During the summer months the lavender rises from the earth and moves swiftly to its flowering stage.  From an Anthroposophical nursing perspective, what I find so interesting about this plant is its ability to calm and restore balance within the nerve-sense system, which is considered an area of coolness, stillness and minimal growth regeneration.  In practicing the Anthroposophical clinical therapies throughout this year I have used the warmth and fragrance of lavender to help restore balance between the upper and lower poles of the body.

Lavender appears to have a relaxing and calming influence on the central nervous system which, through its many branches, has a regulatory effect within the body.  When added to water or used as a compress, lavender’s fragrance enters the body via the olfactory system helping to release muscle tightness around the head, neck and shoulder areas.  For this reason lavender is a valuable substance in helping to relieve the pain of migraines and other types of headaches.  The warming and relaxing influence of lavender can also help to rebalance digestive disorders, especially symptoms related to stress.  Its anti-spasmodic ability can help release muscle spasms throughout the digestive tract relieving abdominal discomfort, flatulence, indigestion and feeling of nausea (Herbs 2000, 2009).

Lavender’s nerve and muscle relaxing properties allow for increased digestive blood flow to these organs which improves muscular activity and the flow of digestive secretions.  Achieving balance between the upper and lower poles of the body requires harmony within the rhythmic system (Husemann & Wolfe, Vol 2, 2004).  Lavender can help to restore balance here through its influence on helping to regulate the heart and breathing rates as well as the blood flow through these organs.  When the rhythmic system is functioning in a balanced manner, it is able to mediate and maintain balance between the upper and lower poles of the body.  Stress and feeling of anxiety have an adverse effect on the rhythmic system, which in turn has an adverse effect on the nerve-sense and metabolic-limb systems as well.  Lavender’s warming, calming and relaxing influence on the central nervous system can help to restore balance to respiration, heart rhythms and blood flow.

While the lavender’s properties can have a calming and relaxing influence on the inner workings of our body, it also has and important influence on our soul life and feelings of well being.  Lavender can have a calming and balancing effect our emotions and the way we react to anxious and fearful situations.  It can help to lift our ‘spirits’ when we are feeling low allowing us to have a different perspective on life and the world.  Its calming and relaxing affect can help us to prepare for sleep and to enjoy a good night’s rest, an important part of our rhythmical life, allowing us to let go of the days activities.  Lavender, especially when used as a chest compress, supports our middle realm, helping to create an inner space for our self (Oil Compresses, Clinical Therapies Protocol, 2009).  When we have a sense of well-being we feel strong and open, especially in our middle realm.  It is during these moments, when we feel balanced, alive and open; we can rise above earthy worries and hopefully learn how to connect with more with our spiritual nature and qualities (Husemann & Wolff, Vol 2, 2004).

Side effects and cautions in using lavender

In general lavender is considered a safe substance for most people.  People with a known allergy to lavender would be advised not to use it.  For some people, topical use of lavender can cause dermatitis.  Lavender contains varying amounts of coumarins and therefore may increase the effects of anticoagulants medications.  It is also advisable to use lavender cautiously in clients who are currently taking drugs that depress the central nervous system in case the use of lavender exacerbates sedation.  Nausea and vomiting has been reported after large oral doses of lavender > 5.0g/day.  Lavender is not recommended during pregnancy.

In Conclusion

I think it would be fair to say that lavender’s influence reaches all three realms of a human being.  Just as the warmth element penetrates the whole plant, so its warmth and fragrance penetrates all realms of our body.  Its calming properties and influences on the body maintains the coolness and stillness in the nerve-sense region by redirecting the metabolic process back to the lower half of the body.  It helps to increase warmth and blood flow within the metabolic-limb system thus redirecting the elements of coolness and stillness back to the top part of the body where they belong.  And it does this through restoring harmony to the rhythmic system allowing this realm to maintain its balancing and mediation roles within the body.

Lavender

Lavender, beautiful to see, touch and smell

Its fragrance helps us to feel balanced and restored

Open to life and ready to dance

It stimulates our taste buds while calming digestion

Its warmth flows through us helping us to measure our words

And calm our thoughts

We hear the harmony of our heart beat and breathing as its fragrance carries us to sleep

And its warmth takes us gently into the spiritual world allowing us to merge with other worlds and our higher self

Plant Study, Tricia Russell

Taruna College, July 2009

References

–          Allardice, P., (2004) The Art of Aromatherapy, A guide for using essential oils for health and relaxation, Lansdowne Publications

–          Certificate in Holistic Healthcare (2009) Oil Compresses, Clinical Protocol Notes, Taruna College, Havelock North, New Zealand

–          G. Douch, Dr., (2004) Medicine for the Whole Person A Guide to Anthroposophical Treatment, Floris Books, Poland

–          Greenstone, (1990), Healing at Home ~ A guide to using alternative remedies and conventional medicine that will change you approach to illness, Healing at Home Resources, PO Box 2622, Ann Arbor, MI, 48106

–          Herbs 2000 (2009) Lavender http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_lavender.htm, accessed July 8^th 2009

–          Huseman, F., & Wolfe, O., (1982), The Anthroposophical Approach to Medicine Vol 1, The Anthroposophical Press Inc, Spring Valley, New York

–          Huseman, F., & Wolfe, O., (2004), The Anthroposophical Approach to Medicine Vol 2, The Anthroposophical Press Inc, Hudson, New York

–          Lavender Enchantment, (2004) History of Lavender http://www.lavenderenchantment.com/History_Lore/history.htm accessed July 6th 2009

–          McNaughton, V., (2000).  Lavender, The New Zealand Gardner’s Guide, Penguin Books, (NZ) Ltd, cnr Airborne and Rosedale Roads, Albany, Auckland, 1310, NZ

–          Moore, Dr. E., (n.d). Lavender’s Healing Propertieshttp://www.elaine-moore.com/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=%2FgxN3aUc%2BtA%3D&tabid=164&mid=600 viewed July 5^th 2009

–          Pelikan., W., (1997), Healing Plants ~ Insights Through Spiritual Science, Mercury Press, Fellowship Community, 241 Hungry Hollow Road, Spring Valley, NY 10977

–          Popin. B., (n.d.) The Quality of Lavender, Director of Quality Assurance/Quality control http://www.stonekingdom.org/articles/The_Quality_of_Lavender.pdf accessed July 8th 2009

Full Plant Study

Tricia Russell’s full plant study for her Certificate in Holistic Health Care from Taruna College  is available for download as a reference tool.

Download the Full Plant Study

 

Comparisons of Rosemary and Yarrow

Comparisons of Rosemary and Yarrow

Rosemary officinalis

As a Plant

Rosemary is a plant of warmth in which we encounter a forceful, fiery nature through its highly aromatic salty-spicy fragrance.  Its roots enliven the earth then move on.  In perceiving rosemary I encounter a composed, upright almost rigid bush with a dry woody stem suggesting that the water element is low in rosemary.  It shows us the nature of contraction through its long, linear, leathery dark green spiky leaves and expansion through the softness of its open flowers.

Three Fold Connections

Rosemary connects strongly with the metabolic-limb system with an inclination towards the rhythmic system.  It gives us warmth, physical presence, mental vitality and healthy embodiment.  It is an excellent substance for bringing balance in times of forgetfulness or poor learning ability, loosely incarnated in body, lacking physical/etheric warmth, especially in bodily extremities.

Active Constituents

–    Volatile oil
–    Tannins
–    Bitter principle
–    Flavonoids
–    Phenoilc acids including rosemarinic acid and rosmaricine and resin

Nutritional Constituents

–    Vitamins: A and C
–    Minerals: High in calcium with some iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium and zinc

Medicinal Uses

Rosemary brings warmth into the body and ‘fires’ the metabolism, it awaken and stimulates the ‘I’ organisation increasing its penetration through the body.  It also acts as a circulatory stimulant and thought of as a tonic to the heart and blood vessels because of the flavonoid content.  It stimulates mucous flow in the respiratory tract as well as having anti-inflammatory properties.  For the digestive system its actions can relieve flatulence, indigestion and colic, and for the urinary tract it acts as a diuretic which may be due to the improved circulation through the kidneys.  For the nerve-sense system it acts as a thymoleptic through stimulating the nervous system at the same time as being restorative to its function (Fisher & Painter, 1996).  This is due to rosemary’s ability to bring penetrating warmth into the body restoring circulation to the nerves themselves.  Rosemary can be ingested as a tea or liquid extract or applied as an oil or ointment.  The essential oil can be used in the bath or placed in a burner and its aroma brings calmness and stability to otherwise anxious or excitable astral forces.

Contraindications

In general there appear to be few reported contraindications to using rosemary although caution may be warranted in women wishing to conceive.  The essential oil should not be applied directly to the skin.  It is best not to use rosemary in the evening due to its stimulating nature.

Achillae Mellefolium ~ Yarrow

As a Plant

Yarrow is a light plant filled plant whose roots have a horizontal spreading relationship with the earth before growing in an upright position.  Its hairy quality indicates the presence of silica in yarrow supporting and enlivening its growth.  Although Yarrow is an upright plant, it has a softer more sensitive aspect than rosemary.  It has persistence and endurance, delaying its flowering process until it is ready.  Yarrow reflects its airy soft nature through its feathery leaf form.  Even the foliage gives an impression of gentle softness in its rhythmical spiral pattern along the stem towards its flower head and abundant blooms.  Its aromatic fragrance has a note of bitterness rather than the sharp fiery penetrating fragrance of rosemary (Pelikan, 1976)

Three Fold Connections

Yarrow also connects with the metabolic-limb system but in a softer way to rosemary.  The warmth of yarrow is much gentler as it eases tension and shifts excess air within the digestive system.   The bitter aromatics promote hepatic activity stimulating the metabolism and strengthening the digestives processes.  Because of the sulphur and salt processes yarrow holds balance between vitality and form thus stabilizing astral forces while helping us to keep our ‘feet on the ground’, (Pelikan, 1976).

Some of the Many Active Constituents

–    Volatile oil
–    Bitter glycol-alkaloid
–    Tannins
–    Flavoniods and Asparagine

Nutritional Constituents

–    Vitamins: A, C, E and K
–    Minerals: Manganese, copper, potassium, iron and iodine

Medicinal Uses

Yarrow has a wide rage of medicinal uses especially in supporting liver function and detoxification.  It strengthens metabolic processes, stimulates the appetite and assists in relaxing the smooth muscle tissue of the digestive tract.  It stimulates vitality in chronic conditions such as cancer.  These same antispasmodic qualities are also found to be effective in smoothing the muscles of the uterus, thus helpful in the treatment of menstrual cramps (Tilgner, n.d.).  One of the common uses of this plant is in the use of wound treatment as it contains chemicals that promote blood coagulation.  It is cardio protective as it dilates and tones blood vessels, helps to lower hypertension and reduce palpitations.

For respiratory support it is considered a mucus membrane tonic in catarrhal conditions such as colds, bronchitis and asthma.  Its anti-inflammatory action is thought to ease the pain of rheumatism while the antiseptic and diuretic properties support healing from cystitis and urethritis, (Fisher & Painter, 1996).  Being a plant of light, yarrow relates to our soul or astral body; it helps us in the process of developing emotional strength and physical grounding.  It can be used in the form of a liver compress, an infusion of dried herbs, a tincture or a fluid extract.

Contraindications

Sesquiterpenes are responsible for allergic contact dermatitis caused by yarrow.  People with a known sensitivity to other members from this botanical family should avoid using yarrow.  Also large doses of the fresh herb can cause vertigo and headaches.  No adverse effects are expected during pregnancy, however thujone containing varieties should be avoided, (Bone, 2003).  Compresses should no be used during times of fever, abdominal pain of unknown origin, acute hepatitis or severe diarrhoea.

In Conclusion

Although from different botanical families rosemary and yarrow relate strongly to the lower pole of the body with an affinity to the rhythmic system.  Rosemary seems to have a more ‘restive’ affect on the sense-nerve system due to its ability to stimulate and restore nerve function at the same time.  The warmth carried in rosemary is sharp, awakening and penetrating.  The air carried in the yarrow brings movement, lightness and vitality.  The growth form and structure of the yarrow is a lot more rhythmical while the aromatic fragrance of the rosemary is more enlivening to the senses.  The yarrow leaves appear in direct contrast to those of the rosemary; yarrow enfolds air and openness while rosemary displays contraction and toughness.  The yarrow flowers proudly open to the world from the top of the stem while the rosemary flowers hug close to the stem.

I feel surprised at their similarities of medicinal actions.  Both plants connect with the metabolic system with an inclination to the rhythmic system.  Both support metabolic processes, rosemary through its warmth and yarrow through bringing movement and form.  Both plants appear to be cardio protective through their actions on the vascular system although yarrow seems to connect with the reproductive system more.  From a four fold perspective rosemary seems to have strengthening and incarnating properties while yarrow has softer warmth and more dissolving kinds of properties.  Both seem to stabilize the astral and etheric forces.  Although there is still a lot I do not clearly understand I feel I have certainly learnt from this study.

References

Achillea Millefolium – Yarrow

Achillea Millefolium ~ Yarrow

Because this is such a large botanical family it is divided into two sub families; the Lactucoideae with 7 tribes and the Asteroideae with 6 tribes.

• Botanical Family ~ Asteraceae
• Tribe ~ Anthemideae
• Species ~ Achillea Millefolium
• Common Name ~ Yarrow
• Element ~ Light
• Planet ~ Venus

Brief Botanical Description

Yarrow is a perennial herb that grows from 10 to 20 inches high.  It displays a single fibrous and rough stem with an alternative leaf structure.  The green leaves have a feathery fern like appearance. The flowers consist of bunches of flat-topped panicles made up of numerous small, white flower heads.  Each tiny flower resembles daisy. The whole plant is more or less hairy, with white, silky hairs (Alternative Nature, 1997).  The flowers bloom from May to August and its best to gather the stem, the leaves and flower heads when in bloom and dry for later herb use.

Habitat and Cultivation

Achillea millefolium or common yarrow is a hardy perennial wayside and pasture plant originally native to most of Europe and Asia.  It is found naturalized in most temperate regions worldwide.  For thousands of years it has been respected as a medicinal and ceremonial herb.  Yarrow loves dryness and light, prefers full sun and well drained, slightly disturbed soil and is drought tolerant once established.  Yarrow blooms throughout the summer and autumn and in temperate climates such as New Zealand, it will carry on flowering with a head or two throughout winter and spring.  In good conditions it can grow to a meter in height with lots of white umbrella like flowers (Ellen, 2003).

Yarrow is a grassland, field, roadside and garden dweller that readily invades any space allotted to it.  It is easily cultivated as it moves quickly from a system of shallow roots as well a multiplying from seed. Yarrow pushes its rhizomes through the roots of other grasses and plants forming a mat; it can become a troublesome weed.  It is generally resistant to insects and disease but may suffer from mildew and rust in damp places. It is a good companion plant for other plants as it has the ability to enhance their essential oil content increasing their resistance to troublesome insects while attracting beneficial ones (Alternative Nature, 1997).

Record of Botanical and Artistic Observations

Drawing One
–    Erect growing perennial, rhizomatous herb, with a pungent odour and bitter taste. Short non-flowering rosettes form dense mats of lacy leaves and the plant reaches 10-20 inches high.  It bears flat topped clusters of small mainly white or creamy/pink flowers and the plant usually displays white silky apprised hairs.
–    The roots are rhizomes and have a creeping, fairly shallow horizontal growth.  While not ‘deeply’ rooted, it is ‘spread out’ in its root system. It appears to have strength in its ability to move underground from one area to another covering a lot of territory. The root system seems to focus on ‘spreading out’ and joining together, rather than moving downward.
–    The Stems are usually simple, stiff and erect up to 1 meter tall.  They are ribbed and striate and downy towards the top. They usually only branch towards the top to form the inflorescence.
–    The leaves alternate as they ascend the stem from the base of the plant.  Each leaf simultaneously decreases in size as it climbs the stem displaying a soft and gentle downward curve or arch.  The leaves grayish green aromatic leaves are compound and in their finely divided exquisite feathery quality we encounter a high air element.  They are approximately 8-10 cm long and 2 cm wide

Drawing Two

–    Basal leaves grow from the lowest part of the stem, are finely pinnate with a soft feathery appearance
–    The flowers are several bunches of flat topped panicles consisting of small , white daisy like flower heads arranged in dense flat topped terminal compound corymbs up to 15 cm across, 5cm in diameter.  They are composed of 4-6, usually 5 ray florets.  The ray florets encircle lots of little disc flowers.  The inflorescence is produced in flat topped clusters about 5-8cm in diameter.
–    The seeds are grey to brown flattened achenes, about 2mm long with narrow, pale, brown wings and no pappus hairs.
–    Parts used:  The aerial parts, leaves, stems and flowers are collected when in flower during the growing season, after the dew has dried, early on a sunny day. Flower stems should be cut back to ground level after flowering and clumps divided every other year.

The Three Fold Aspect of Yarrow

The three fold nature of yarrow connects with the three fold human-being through its medicinal actions of its floral realm.  As previously stated, the metabolic-limb system thrives on warmth and activity; the warmth and regenerative qualities of the yarrow flowers and seeds support the metabolic, digestive and reproductive areas (Pelikan, 1997).

The yarrow plant has a note of aromatic bitterness and this quality contained in yarrow strengthens the digestive processes thus supporting liver function, increased bile secretion and improved appetite (Fisher & Painter, 1996).  Yarrow is also valuable for the rhythmic system acting as an amphoteric; dilating tightly constricted blood vessels and bringing tone to vessels that are too flaccid.  These medicinal qualities are especially helpful for cardiac function and vascular circulation throughout the body (Fisher & Painter).

As a strong, well balanced plant, yarrow works to support anabolic and growth processes within the metabolic-limb system towards form and balance.  Research and studies (Ellen, 2003) indicate that yarrow seeks to harmonize the spiritual and astral aspects of one’s nature with the physical world and practical responsibilities. This is further demonstrated in the structure of the plant when viewing the harmonious relationship between the clustered white bloom at the top of the plant and the light and feathery leaves clustered at the base of the plant

Plant Gesture of Yarrow

In yarrow I see a well formed and a well balanced plant that feels well grounded.  This surprised me really considering its airy nature.  The salty qualities carried in the plant helps to bring form and structure to the plant.  The sulphurous qualities bring a sense of opening and loosening as they enable the plant to open towards the cosmos (Therkleson, 2009).  It stands firm and strong within its sensitivity.  It appears to flourish as individual stems and in group clusters.  It also grows harmoniously with flowers of a completely different family. It stands tall yet appears delicate with wispy fine leaves and umbrella-like, compact clusters of refined, intricate white blooms.  The delicate leaf structures seem to ‘feel’ the surrounding environment for the entire plant.

Although this plant is connected to the metabolic system I think it also carries a dream like, rhythmic quality.  Perhaps due to how the airy element forms the plant and the softness of its leaves that ‘cluster’ around the base of the stem.  These are mirrored by the flower ‘clusters’ that open like stars reaching for the cosmic forces.  There is gesture of growth and rest held within this plant as if the two processes work harmoniously, like the rhythm of breathing in and breathing out.  In yarrow we encounter plant gestures of stability, balance and airy sensitivity along with the polarities of expansion and compactness of the flower clusters.

Asteraceae Family – The Daisy Family

ASTERACEAE FAMILY ~ THE DAISY FAMILY

Plants of Air

Formerly know as Compositae, this is the largest plant family with some 25,000 species world wide.  Along with Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) other members of this family include, but are not limited to, daisies, dandelions, marigolds, sunflowers, chrysanthemums, and chamomile. Many of the plants in the Asteraceae family are involved in the daily lives of human beings in an extremely diverse number of ways.

Two outstanding qualities of the Asteraceae family are their efficiency in seed dispersal and their production of a vast array of oils.   Unlike the structure of more typical flowers, the ‘flower’ of this family is made up of a compact cluster of flowers acting as one. Each of the individual flowers is called a floret, while the whole cluster of florets is known botanically as a capitulum, which means ‘little head’ (Fisher & Painter, 1996).  Because of its high reproduction rate and ability to adapt, the Asteraceae are a very successful family.  The herbs, shrubs, or less commonly trees spread in the temperate zones worldwide where they are able to live in the cosmic spheres of light.  Thus it avoids the far north and tropical forests as it shuns darkness and humidity (Pelikan, 1997).

These plants give all their production into developing its ‘flowerbole’ as the main desire of these plants is to live in its flowering form.  The etheric principle within the Asteraceae is able to take root as long as the ground is open to receive cosmic light.  The astral forces penetrate the plant, guiding the etheric forces towards its intense flowering processes.  This is revealed to us through the flowers clear, light colours and their delicate dry, sweet fragrances released into the air, (Pelikan, 1997).

Rosemarinus officinalis (Dew of the sea)

Rosemarinus officinalis (Dew of the sea)

• Botanical Family ~ Lamiaceae
• Botanical Genus ~ Rosemarinus
• Species ~ officinalis
• Common Name ~ Rosemary
• Element ~ Fire
• Planet ~ The Sun

Brief Botanical Description

Rosemary is a perennial and comes in all different shapes and sizes, from tall upright plants to those that hug the ground.  Rosemary officinalis is a dense, highly branched, aromatic evergreen perennial shrub.  The evergreen Rosemarinus officinalis shrub is upright, bushy and grows to about 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall and 1.5 meters wide (taller in some climates).  The many branches of the Rosemary plant have a dry, scaly bark and bear opposite, leathery thick leaves which are linear, dark green above and a downy silvery colour underneath, (Bremness, 1990).  They release a pungently aromatic and somewhat camphoraceous fragrance when touched.  The leaves can usually be gathered throughout the year but the oil is most concentrated at flowering. The flowers are stalkless, lilac-blue and grow in leafy axillary clusters.  The two lipped corolla has an upper lip which is somewhat hooded, the tube is longer than the calyx.  The stamen and style are curved and longer than the corolla (Fisher & Painter, 1996).

Habitat and Cultivation

The upright bushy rosemary plant is native to the Mediterranean countries.  It will tolerate poor, dry soil but thrives in good, well drained soil.   The finest plants are said to be raised from seed although it can be propagated from cuttings of the wood of non-flowering branches in early summer.  It thrives in a sheltered position with lots of sun and well-drained soil.  Rosemary is subject to root rot in wet, boggy soil and unwanted pests include thrips, spider mite and white fly.  The thick shrub tolerates clipping so that the size can be kept in check.  In a warm climate it can remain in the same location for up to 30 years, but in climates where freezing temperatures are expected it is best grown in pots so that it can be brought indoors in winter (The Herb Society of America, 2009).  In New Zealand Rosemary is drought and frost resistant.

Record of Botanical and Artistic Observations

Drawing One

–    Rosemary is a perennial and comes in different shapes and sizes.  Some, as in the case of Rosemarinus officinalis, are tall and upright while other varieties trail or hug the ground.
–    The plant has fine, shallow fibrous roots that do no make the earth element part of them self
–    A central brown, woody square stem arises proudly above the earth; many new woody stems develop from the main stem.  All the stems grow upwards showing a very straight gesture.
–    The stem and its many branches comprise of dry, scaly bark giving the plant a ‘woody’ appearance; rosemary has overcome the water element

Drawing Two

–    The numerous leaves of the rosemary are opposite and usually, though not always, simple.
–    The leaves show us comntraction in their long, narrow contracted spiky appearance as they release their highly aromatic fragrance when crushed
–    The dark green leaves have a lustrous leathery appearance.  Their softer nature is revealed by the softer, downey silvery underside of the leaf
–    Leaves have a prominent vein in the middle and margins which are rolled down
–    The stakless flowers emerge in leafy axillary clusters, the contracted form of the calyx contains the developing flower within its warmth
–    The top of the calyx opens allowing the tubular, two-lipped corolla to expand into the air and light; meeting the world with warmth, colour and fragrance
–    The stamen and style are long and curved

Lamiaceae (Mint) Family

Lamiaceae (Mint) Family

Plants of Warmth

The Lamiaceae is one of the most readily recognized families of flowering plants.  For many years this botanical family was referred to as the Labiateae, in reference to the strongly bilabiate (2-lipped) flowers exhibited by most of its species.  According to Pelikan (1988) all the species in the Lamiaceae family carry medicinal properties, a gift that stems from the archetypal (original) plant itself.

Warmth is the essential nature of most of the plants in the Lamiaceae family for the cosmic warmth of the sun greatly influences the development of one aspect of these plants (Pelikan, 1988).  Plants in the Lamiaceae family express their warmth element through their fragrance and fiery aromatic compounds called volatile oils.  These oils are highly inflammable, unstable and expand quickly to a gaseous state.  The cosmic warmth activity in these plants develops according to where they grow in the world and the generative forces influencing plant development in that region, (Pelikan, 1988). The Lamiaceae family develops to its greatest potential in the mountainous parts of the Mediterranean countries.  This is due to the short spring rain periods followed by the long hot, dry summers that are full of bright days with strong generative etheric forces as they mainly flower in the summer.  This plant will die in boggy or wet soil, (Cox & Monine, 2010).  The plants of this botanical family have a special relationship with human beings as both have internal warmth as an aspect of their fundamental nature (Pelikan, 1998).