Trees are the Standing Ones, the Wise Elders and each one has a story to tell. The stories have passed into legend and folk-lore and have been with us since we first sat around a fire at night. Our ancestors held trees in high esteem and had laws to protect them and respect them. In Ireland trees were categorised as Nobles of the Wood to Commoners of the Wood. Whilst we may appreciate trees for the beauty and majesty, trees can also make important additions to our home apothecary.
I would say first that all that trees are medicinal on an energetic or vibrational level. As such they can bring positive effects to our mental and emotional well-being, which necessarily has huge relevence to our physical health. Birch for example, is all about new beginnings and fresh starts as it is a tree that goes into leaf before others but can also be applied topically and taken internally for spring cleansing. Other medicinal trees to consider are Oak, Ash, Hawthorn, Alder,Linden (Lime) and Cramp Bark to name a few.
Today I am talking about the Cramp Bark or Guelder Rose. This is a small hedgerow tree which could be suitable for any size garden. CrampbBark or Viburnum opulus is also a very attractive small tree with beautiful white flowers which turn into bright, shiny red berries. Then there are the medicinal actions which will benefit every house hold. As the name suggests, this little tree is wonderful for relieving cramps or spasms and so can benefit all all the family.
Whether you have aching muscles, rheumatism, restless legs or fibrmyalgia, Cramp Bark will help. If you are suffering with PMT/PMS and have uterine cramping each month, Cramp Bark can bring relief. Apart from the anti-spasmodic action, Cramp Bark is also astringent so can help with IBS and heavy periods. Even if you do not need to take advantage of the healing qualities of this small tree, still do consider offering a home to Cramp Bark as it feeds birds and insects and adds beauty to the environment.
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