Can Herbs Heal Grief? Exploring Nature’s Remedies for Emotional Pain

Credit:Avelino Calvar Martinez from Burst

In a world where everything eventually fades away, grief is unavoidable. The same can be said about physical pain: it’s unavoidable. And yet, we devise all sorts of remedies to alleviate the physical pain of our bodies. Why don’t we do the same with the emotional pain of grief?

If you’re an herbalist, you may argue that we have many plant allies ready and willing to ease the burden of suffering. Herbal remedies have long been revered for their ability to soothe both body and soul. From ancient civilizations to modern-day herbalists, plants have been utilized as potent allies in the quest for emotional well-being. But can herbs truly heal the deep wounds of grief, or are they just nature’s placebo?

What Herbs Can Help Us?

Hawthorn:

One of the key players in the realm of herbal grief support is hawthorn. Known for its cardiovascular benefits, hawthorn has been linked to lower cholesterol levels and reduce high blood pressure, making it a powerhouse for heart health. In the context of grief, hawthorn’s affinity for the heart takes on a deeper significance. According to herbalist Maria Noël Groves, the heart is “a primary seat of emotion,” and in times of immense grief, it can feel as though our very hearts are breaking. By harnessing the healing power of hawthorn through teas, infused honeys, and elixirs, individuals may find relief from the physical and emotional symptoms of heartache.

Berries from a hawthorn tree.
Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Rose

Rose is another beloved ally in the journey through grief. Revered for its gentle antidepressant and sedative properties, rose has long been used to comfort and calm the heart. Herbalists speak of rose as a bridge to help with emotional release. While this will not remove your pain, it could theoretically help move the process of healing along. Whether enjoyed as a tea, infused honey, or bath blend, rose provides a fragrant reminder that beauty and healing can be found even in the darkest of times.

Motherwort

Motherwort offers a potent remedy for the restless heart that often accompanies grief. Despite its bitter taste, motherwort is renowned for its ability to support the cardiovascular and nervous systems, making it a valuable ally for those navigating the turbulent waters of grief and loss. With its lion-hearted spirit, motherwort can offer strength and resilience in the face of overwhelming emotions, providing a sense of groundedness and stability amidst the storm.

Source: Matthew Henry from Burst

Others

In the search for solace amidst the storm of grief, individuals may also find refuge in the cooling embrace of linden and elderflower. Linden, with its calming heart tonic properties, is said to act as a protective guide through times of sorrow, offering comfort and support to weary souls. Herbalists claim that elderflower, can help ease anxiety and depression, as well as providing general well-being to the heart.

How Much Does the Science Matter? 

While herbs cannot erase the pain of grief or mend the shattered pieces of a broken heart, they can offer a gentle reminder that healing options exist, even in the midst of despair. The science backing the healing power of herbs is scarce, but anecdotal evidence is plentiful. Whether these herbs actually do any heavy lifting in the release of grief, or we just imagine they do, does it matter? The most powerful healer of all may be our own minds, and if herbs even help people think they’re moving towards healing, then they’re well worth it.