Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris) is a perennial wild herb found throughout the temperate regions of both the northern and southern hemispheres. It favors moist meadows, stream sides and even will invade lawns, spreading easily.
Ubiquitous in its distribution, Self-Heal is also universal in its application. Self-Heal herb is taken internally as a tea and applied externally as a poultice. It is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-viral activity. Called “Self-Heal” or “Heal-All” by herbalists, it is truly a universal healer.
The Self-Heal flower essence addresses the most basic issue of the healing journey, the inner commitment to wellness. It can enhance many flower essence combinations, and it is a remarkably supportive adjunct to a wide range of therapies, including nutritional programs, psychological counseling and conventional medical treatment. Self-Heal essence works well in topical applications, as it draws the life force to the affected area, catalyzing the body's self-healing powers.
Prunella vulgaris is a member of the Mint family (Lamiaceae — traditional name: Labiatae). This plant family includes a remarkable assortment of medicinal, aromatic and culinary herbs. Many Mint Family plants grow in the dry, sunny Mediterranean climates. However, Prunella favors a more moist environment, with some shade.
All members of this family are characterized by strong, erect stems, with a square cross-section and pairs of opposite leaves arranged at right angles to the leaves below and above.
In the bud stage, we see a tight cluster of bracts, green with a tinge of magenta color.
The flowers first appear on the lower part of the flower head and gradually work their way up to the top. As the blossoming process ripens, the flower head elongates. Seeds form in the lower area as new flowers bloom higher up on the flower head.
The edges of the lower "lip" petals echo the hairy quality we see on the stem and bracts
The Self-Heal flower has the mouth-like shape characteristic of the Mint Family. The traditional name of the family — Labiatae — is descriptive of the upper and lower lips that characterize Mint Family flowers. The upper lip, consisting of two fused petals, covers the pistils and stamens like a hood. The lower lip consists of three fused petals with a protruding center lobe.
The bilateral symmetry of this five-petaled flower is an echo of the
bilateral animal form, as contrasted with the star-like, bell-shaped or
cup form of many flowers. The interior space created by the blossom's
“mouth” and “throat” provide the perfect welcome for the bee to bury
itself in the blossom and drink deeply of its nectar.
Self-Heal blossoms are found in both blue-purple and magenta tones. According to our research, the magenta-colored flowers are preferred for the flower essence, as it is the color of rejuvenation of the life forces. It is the complementary color to the life-affirming green that forms the foundation of plant life
Robust yet receptive, Self-Heal offers itself as a universal reminder of the healing power of Nature and of our own inner nature; it connects us with the renewing waters of life.
Words and images by Richard Katz
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