Mimosa (Silk Tree) bark or flower (Albizia julibrissin)*

Known in TCM as He Huan Pi or collective happiness flower. It calms disturbed shen (anxiety, insomnia, bad dreams) and is a very effective mood elevator. Mimosa is also used for irritability, depression, mood swings, poor memory, and anger.

Rose petals (Rosa spp.)*

Especially the fragrant  apothecary roses, are a delight to the senses - they look beautiful, smell wonderful, taste delightful in teas or jellies, and even feel soft and silky. Roses have long been a gift to ask forgiveness or indicate love and affection. Aromatherapists use attar of rose for depression, to “open the heart,” and to comfort those in distress.

Hawthorn berry, flower, and leaf (Crataegus oxycanthoides)*

A well-known heart and cardiovascular remedy used for angina, congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis, and atrial fibrillation. Hawthorn is primarily thought of as a circulatory tropho-restorative, but it is also a nervine, digestive aid, and anti-inflammatory. In TCM it is used for dyspepsia and gas. Hawthorn also reduces inflammation in connective tissue and the lungs (especially cardiac asthma).

Bibliography:

Chen, J., Chen, T., Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology, Art of Medicine Press, 2004

Keville, K., Green, M., Aromatherapy-A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing Press, 1995

Tisserand, R., The Art of Aromatherapy, Destiny Books, 1977.

Winston, D., Herbal Therapeutics, Specific Indications For Herbs & Herbal Formulas, HTRL, 8th ed., 2003

An Herbal [1525] Also known as Banckes' Herbal. Author unknown, published 1525. Facsimile & transcripted edition ed. by Larkey & Pyles. (NY: Scholars' Facsimiles and Reprints, 1941)