Grief can happen in many forms; the loss of a loved one, the loss of a beloved pet, an unexpected illness etc. This type of trauma can manifest symptoms both inwardly and outwardly. Every person who deals with trauma will express their grief in different ways. There may be random outbursts of emotions such as sadness, anger, or denial. They may withdraw and have unusual behavior. And there is no time frame for when a person will heal from it. Grief can leave a person heartbroken, lost, and disconnected if proper healing and support is not present.

How can herbs help a person move through the process of grief? How can herbs help uplift and restore a person’s mental, emotional, and spiritual health?

The following herbs are historically interesting in how they have been used traditionally in times of grieving.

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) is historically used as a specific for the cardiovascular system. It is suggested that it lowers cholesterol and combats high blood pressure. Hawthorn’s gentle energy is traditionally suggested to be a prime healer of heartache and grief. Hawthorn is traditionally prepared as a pleasant syrup.

Rose (Rosa spp.) is an abundant herb used historically for many uses such as skin care (especially the face), as a sedative, and an antidepressant. It is suggested to uplift grief and fear-based emotions and provide a sense of ease. Rose is also suggested to cool anger along with heat and inflammation. Traditionally it is an herb of self-love and makes a pleasant tea.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is historically used as a bitter herb and is suggested to support the cardiovascular system and nervous system. Motherwort is highly versatile and is traditionally suggested to be used for anxiety and stress. The leaves and flowers are helpful for those who have recently lost mothers. It is traditionally prepared as a tincture or as an ingredient in bitters.

Linden (Tilia spp.) is historically suggested to be a cooling and calming heart tonic. Linden is rich in antioxidants due to its flavonoid content and is suggested to quell hypertension and stress contributing factors. It is energetically protective and comforting in times of grief. Linden leaves are traditionally prepared as a cold infusion.

Mimosa (Albizia julibrissin) is known as the “Tree of Happiness.” It is suggested to assist those who are suffering from depression, loss, heartache, and grief. It is historically used to improve emotional wellbeing, peace, wellbeing, grounding and provides strength. It is suggested to improve stomach aches, insomnia, and irritability. Historically a tea is made from its flowers and a decoction from its bark.

Tulsi Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is suggested to increase energy, vitality, longevity, and well-being. Historically Tulsi basil is used to aid in hopelessness, and to aid to be present and more in tune with the world around us. Traditional use is suggested to support digestion, the immune system, the nervous system, and cardiovascular systems.

These herbs are suggested to be allies to move through grief in a wholistic, mindful manner. They honor and acknowledge present emotions and mental states and work to heal and balance your grief long term.

References:

Grieve, M. (1971). A modern herbal: Volume 1. Dover Publications Inc.

Grieve, M. (2015). Modern Herbal (Volume 2, I-Z and indexes). Stone Basin Books.

Scheffer, M. (2001). The Encyclopedia of Bach Flower Therapy. Healing Arts Press.

Zerdy, J. (2020, April 19). Six herbs for grieving and healing. Mindfulness & Grief: Meditation for Life After Loss.

https://mindfulnessandgrief.com/six-herbs-for-grieving-and-healing/

Brandy R. Radcliff is a Master Herbalist from the School of Natural Healing. She runs a brick-and-mortar store, The Blessed Fig Tree, and is building up her herbal clientele along with her emergency formula line. She is also establishing an endangered and rare herbal sanctuary named Northern Eden on land in Pence, Wisconsin with the intent to certify it through her membership with United Plant Savers. Brandy can be reached at brandy@theblessedfigtree.com for more information on classes, herbal programs, and endangered herbs.