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Rowan Berries |
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Rowan Berries
ROWAN BERRIES
(Sorbus aucuparia)
History and Folklore
A 'tree a tree of life' in Celtic tree lore, the dainty appearance of this small, but strikingly beautiful tree belies its inner strength and resilience. It likes to grow on the forest's edge, but does not shy away from the most inhospitable places - exposed hillsides or seemingly bare rocks, which it graces defiantly. Its decorative appeal has ensured it a place in our urban environments, where it bravely withstands car fumes and other assaults. Sacred to Thor, the mighty God of Lightening will rarely strike it. It is thus considered a 'lucky tree', endowed with the power to ward off evil and sorcery, which is why it is often planted in farmyards, or its branches are pinned above doorways. The common name, Quickbeam, points to its magical power of transmitting fertility. Its vigour is not only evident in the tree's quick growth and resilience in adversity, but is also expresses in the magical signature of the white flowers and red berries, bearing the sacred colours of blood and seed. In the Celtic Tree Calendar, Rowan stands for the second month of the year, the time of quickening. It is associated with the powers of intuition and communication with the spirit world.
Medicinal Uses:
Rowan berries are rich in vitamin C and used to be used as an antiscorbutic. They can be added to a wholesome breakfast tea blend or refreshing summer beverage. The dried berries are said to be effective for kidney stones, urinary problems and diarrhoea. Their astringency lends itself well to gargles for a sore throat and tonsillitis. They are rarely used medicinally now, but can be used to make wild fruit jellies, vinegars and liqueurs.
Magical Uses:
Rowan belongs to the Great Goddess. It is a tree of the Queen of Fairies and is associated with the spirit world. It offers protection on spirit journeys and on the journey of the soul to the Otherworld. It is associated with intuition, spirit communication and divination and a traditional wood to carve runes from. It is also an appropriate tree for carving magic wands. Rowan symbolizes resilience and strength in the face of adversity, determination and defiance. It is a tree of life that transmits the quickening powers of fertility and abundance.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child’s range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one’s own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother’s milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don’t risk regret.
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