R – Tree Medicine Tree Magic

Posted by Morrighan on June 1, 2000 at 2:01 am | Last modified: June 1, 2000 2:01 am

By Jodi Lee
Originally Published 2000
(see author/copyright info below)

Author: Ellen Evert Hopman
Publisher: Phoenix Publishing
ISBN: 0-919345-55-7
Published: 1992
Pages: 176

Most people don’t often think to turn to trees when in need of healing. And yet, when thinking of it – where did he basic chemical for Aspirin come from? The Willow (Salix purpurea). Holly berries, although they should never be taken internally, are a wonderful old-time remedy to stop bleeding from cuts or wounds (dried and ground berries placed on the injury). The knowledge our great – great – grandparents held when it came to using what was at hand and in plenty is stunning.

Ellen Evert Hopman’s book is informative and definitely worth reading, and keeping on hand, just in case. It is best suited for those in North America, as that is the main part of this book – trees found in N.A. There are a few quotes given to Tree Medicine in Europe and Asia, but the trees described best are those found here.

Ms Hopman gives in depth descriptions of each tree, followed by a brief, personal comment. Practical uses, healing methods, and finally magickal uses are examined. Each section is on a species of tree, and there are beautiful illustrations by Diana Green. Often there are recipes for infusions, decoctions, salves and even jams, wines and pickles interspersed with the information.

I include here some comments found within each section. They are not directly quoted, just bits I found interesting whilst reading through it.

Oak – I knew that Oak had many purposes, but one I didn’t know was a tea/wash made of Oak bark to soothe scalp irritations and eliminate dandruff.

Pine – Pine resin, when chewed, will soothe sore throats.

Ash – Ash bark can be used for boosting immune systems.

Willow – Poultices for gangrene can be made from powdered bark in cream.

Holly – In Germany, the leaves were often used as a substitute for tea.

Hawthorn – Young Hawthorn leaves can be smoked for a nicotine-free cigarette for those wishing to quit the habit.

Hazel – The nuts are rich in many essential nutrients.

Birch – Use a tea of fresh leaves to help heal mouth sores.

Rowan – The fresh juice of the Rowan berry can be used as a throat gargle for bronchitis and hoarseness.

Apple – Apples can neutralize toxins in the blood.

Eucalyptus – Used properly it may aid digestion and appetite.

Elm – For babies who cannot have cow’s milk, Slippery Elm makes a wholesome substitute.

Maple – Decoction of the leaves is good for boils.

Chestnut – The dried bark of the Horse Chestnut can be used for a fever remedy.

Cedar – Cedar salves are great for rheumatic conditions.

Poplar – Poplar is similar to the Willow in therapeutic use.

Larch – Needles and shoots of the larch are simmered and strained for a stimulating bath additive.

Walnut – Boil green husks with honey and water for a sore throat gargle.

Elder – Elderberry wine is flavorful and a remedy for neuralgia.

**NEVER take any herbal remedy without supervision of a Doctor or Homeopathic practitioner**

Here I would like to add a meditation that I have used many times since reading this book. In the past few months, as some of my readers know, I have beecome very busy with volunteer work and my writing, and a loss in the family devasted me. I through myself into writing, and although my book has many new chapters, I felt the stress of not sleeping or relaxing properly. This meditation is an excellent remedy!

“This meditation works best any place where trees are growing. It is most effective within a circle of like-minded friends. Begin by orienting yourselves with the positions of the sun and moon. Note the four directions (north, east, south and west) and their relation to your circle. Send a blessing and a prayer to the spirits of the four directions and thank them for their help and guidance.

When you feel you are attuned to the energies of the space in which you find yourselves, close your eyes. A spokesperson verbally guiding the process will help to keep everybody focused.

Start by becoming aware of your feet. Notice how they are resting on the earth. Begin to visualize them as extending and burrowing down into the soil. See clearly the taproots and tiny root hairs that curl and reach to anchor themselves in the soil. Notice your new awareness of earth energies, currents of magnetic power, and light. Notice also your awareness of the presence of water and of all the tiny organisms that feed and grow beneath you.

Leaving your “roots” firmly anchored, begin to raise your awareness to your trunk. Feel the sap coursing through your living wood and feel your sensitivity to the wind and sunlight. Now become aware of your highest branches. Feel your leaves turn and seek the light. The guide may direct the circle to raise their arms and wave their hands in sensitive, graceful motions to further capture the awareness of breezes and sun.

At this point some very startling things can occur. On a windless day in mid-winter, I saw the trees around me begin to twost and move. There was a distinct crackling sound and I KNEW they were communicating with us. Try it for yourself.

To end the meditation you simply reverse the process, retracting your leaves and branches and finally your roots.
Give thanks to the four directions and bless them for their help and presence.

Then, go forth with a new sensitivty to your friends, the trees.”
–
Jodi Lee – is a freelance writer/editor living in southern Manitoba, Canada.
© 2000 – present All Rights Reserved; Republish notice excluded.

This article can be republished elsewhere in its entirety so long as the author is notified (see contact information), a link is provided to the website, and this notice is left intact.