In this era of almost universal climate concerns spanning individuals, groups and countries, a great deal is being discussed around the subject of tree planting. Despite all of the good intentions connected to getting trees into the ground, one aspect of trees which is often forgotten is the health dimensions of trees – and plant medicine in general.
With many homoeopaths and medical herbalists routinely prescribing tree and plant based remedies and medicines for health problems, this is an area which should not be ignored. Norman R. Farnsworth, former professor of Pharmacognosy at the University of Illinois Medical Centre, pointed out that this trend towards plant based medicine is often part of the public’s desire to find medicines with either less or no side-effects when compared to modern allopathic drugs.
Peter Conway in his book “Tree Medicine”, has delineated in some detail the healing powers of more than a hundred and fifty trees. Trees, of course, are well known for their longevity and homoeopaths and herbalists are united in their hope that tree based medicines may help humans to live long, healthy and happy lives. One Yew tree in the churchyard of the Scottish village of Fortingall has been dated by the Forestry Commission as being over eight thousand years old!
And while none of us are likely to live to a similar age, tree essences can absolutely be used to strengthen physical, emotional and mental health at any age. For example, Witch Hazel, or Hamamelis Virginiana, reputedly helps with toothache. Dogwood, or Piscidia Erythrina, is considered good for disordered moods, and Ginkgo Biloba is thought to promote blood circulation, as well as improving concentration and memory.
If you are interested in finding out more about the potential of plants and their healing power, speak to Brian Fleming – an expert homeopath who has been assisting clients for several decades.