Chakra Energies and their Herbal Correspondence

[Guest guest]

Good Morning!

 

Chakra Energies and their Herbal Correspondence

 

The medicinal benefits of herbs have been recorded for centuries.

Herbs were extensively used to cure practically every known illness

and have been documented by Egyptian, Roman, Native American,

Persians and Hebrews alike. Many herbs contain powerful ingredients

that, if used correctly, can help heal the body. By using herbs in

their complete form, the body's healing process utilizes a balance of

the ingredients provided by nature. The fresh leaves, bark, and roots

of herbs can be used in their natural form or can be found in dried

form and used in capsules, tablets, tinctures, essential oils,

powders, creams, lotions, and salves. Herbs have a vibrational

frequency that is in tune to that of our own bodies.

 

Aromatherapy is the practice of using naturally distilled essences of

flowers and herbs to promote the health and well-being of your body,

mind, and emotions. These essences, called essential oils, can

restore balance and harmony to your body and to your life. Essential

oils of herbs, fruit, and flower essences are created to center and

enhance the body and mind in order to help us in preventative

measures, as well as, an effective cure for many illnesses. Scents

can induce an amazing power as they influence our moods. Our sense of

smell is the most direct path to our emotions. This is the principle

behind the ancient art of aromatherapy.

 

Sensing one's own energy vibrations is an individual experience and

may take a little practice. The more open we are to the universal

pathways, the easier we perceive the energy vibration. Regular energy

work such as meditation, reiki, yoga, acupuncture, will bring a

higher awareness and the change in perception that is important. I

often teach that energy follows thought. Where we put our thoughts,

which are where our energy goes. Simply by being aware of our

energetic system and focusing on the various components we raise our

vibrational frequencies.

 

Vibrational remedies are subtle energy stimuli, which interact with

the energy system to help stabilize physical, emotional, mental, and

spiritual conditions. Once balance is restored, we can easily rid

ourselves of toxins and negative patterns that hinder our life

processes. Through vibrational remedies we revive a proper flow of

energy. The energy closest to the physical is where the meridians are

found. That is why this level of energy can be manipulated through

physical instruments, as with acupuncture; pressure from hands, as

with massage or Chakra manipulation, as with herbs, crystals, color

therapy and mind/breath work.

 

The word " Chakra " is Sanskrit for wheel or disk and signifies one of

seven basic energy centers in the body. The Chakra are stations along

the central axis of your being. Each one is a point at which energy

can be expressed in a certain set of actions, attitudes and emotions.

The Chakra are a map of the soul which must move and flow for healing

to occur. Each of these centers correlates to major nerve ganglia

branching out from the spinal column. In addition, the Chakra also

correlate to levels of consciousness, archetypal elements,

developmental stages of life, colors, sounds, body functions, scent

and our viseral organs.

 

Use the following herbs by either anointing the Chakra centers with

their essential oils, drinking the herb in the form of herbal tea,

using the herb as a compress or poultice.

 

 

Muladhara: 1st Chakra (Base or Root Chakra): Earth, Physical

identity, oriented to self-preservation. Located at the base of the

spine, this chakra forms our foundation. It represents the element

earth, and is therefore related to our survival instincts, and to our

sense of grounding and connection to our bodies and the physical

plane. Ideally this chakra brings us health, prosperity, security,

and dynamic presence. The color for the root chakra is red and it is

grounded with your power. When this chakra is open, you feel in good

health and connected with your physical body. It is used to ground

your essence into your physical body. This chakra gives you

determination, grounds you and aids in survival in the physical

realms. First chakra : Cedar, Clove, Pepper, Raspberry leaves,

Vetiver. For example:

 

Cedarwood is considered the " tree of life " because it withstands the

four elements year round no matter how harsh the seasons are. The

name Thuja is a latin form of a Greek word meaning 'to fumigate,' or

thuo ('to sacrifice'), for the fragrant wood was burnt by the

ancients with sacrifices. Thuja also contains volatile oil, sugar,

gelatinous matter, wax, resin, and Thujin. Works both as a stimulant

and tonic as well as reducing stress and tension.

 

Clove is the most stimulating and carminative of all aromatics; given

in essence, powder or infusion. The medicinal properties reside in

the volatile oil. The oil must be kept in dark bottles in a cool

place. Grounding and warming, clove works on warming the interior of

the body.

 

 

Svadhisthana: 2nd Chakra (Spleen or Sexual Chakra): Water, Emotional

identity, oriented to self-gratification. The second chakra, located

in the abdomen, lower back, and sexual organs, is related to the

element water, and to emotions and sexuality. It connects us to

others through feeling, desire, sensation, and movement. Ideally this

chakra brings us fluidity and grace, depth of feeling, sexual

fulfillment, and the ability to accept change. The color for this

chakra is orange. It is used for creativity, vitality and sexual

expression and creates the balance between connectedness with other

people and time spent alone. The spleen chakra is located in the

sexual organs-- ovaries in women and testes in men. Second chakra :

Burdock, Damiana, Gardenia, Sandalwood, Ylang-Ylang. For example:

 

Gardenia has very fragrant creamy-white flowers and glossy, dark-

green leaves. Gardenia jasminoides is native to China although they

are cultivated all over the world. The pods are used in the Chinese

Materia Medica for clear heat in the body. The perfume oil can be

used to anoint the second Chakra and it's petals make for a fragrant

bath ingredient or to can entrance the senses!

 

Sandalwood fights infection, especially in the urinary tract,

relieves muscle spasm, softens and soothes all skin types,

moisturizes, stimulates new cell growth, clears mucous, congestion,

calms nerves, stimulates sexual desires. Sandalwood and is the oil

from the first pressing. This oil is known as " Liquid Gold " and is

the third oil referred to in the Wise Men's sacred offerings.

 

Ylang Ylang is enticing, soothing, sensual. The aromatics are fresh,

floral, sweet and very seductive. Ylang Ylang calms nerves, lifts

depression, fights infection, improves circulation, lowers blood

pressure, stimulates sexual desire.

 

 

Manipura: 3rd Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra): Fire, Ego identity,

oriented to self-definition. This chakra is known as the power

chakra, located in the solar plexus. It rules our personal power,

will, and autonomy, as well as our metabolism. When healthy, this

chakra brings us energy, effectiveness, spontaneity, and non-

dominating power. The color for this chakra is yellow. Yellow is very

good for getting in touch with your power and to build confidence. It

is your center of will. This Chakra deals with the human ego,

emotions and self-love. Intuition is believed to begin in the area of

our energy center Solar Plexus Chakra. Although, the Third Eye Chakra

is most associated with intuition, the " spark " is what is felt in the

area of our solar plexus. This being the biggest nerve center in our

body connected to almost all the organs, the solar plexus is often

where we consider our " gut " feeling to come from. This is also where

the connection between the three lower Chakra interchange with the

four higher Chakra energy centers. Third chakra : Bergamot,

Carnation, Lavender, Marshmallow, Rosemary. For example:

 

Bergamot has antiseptic properties. This makes it useful for urinary

tract infections, acne and skin problems, cystitis, arthritis,

respiratory ailments, cold sores and other herpes related ailments.

The source of this scent is from the rinds of the fruit. The

aromatherapy benefits are that it refreshes and uplifts and has a

lovely light lemon, orange citrus aroma.

 

Marshmallow stimulates the immune system and the production of white

blood cells. It also soothes inflammation, slows production of mucus,

and reduces sugar levels in the body. This herb stimulates this

Chakra and can be found in its most popular form of tincture or

capsules.

 

Rosemary, rosamarinus officinalis stimulates the adrenal glands,

circulatory system, liver, gallbladder, promotes nerve health,

improves the functioning of the heart and nervous system. Tones and

tightens the skin, regulates oil secretion, fights infection, joint

pain, muscle spasms, and eases digestive orders. The aromatherapy

benefits are stimulating, clarifying and invigorating.

 

 

Anahata: 4th Chakra (Heart Chakra): Air, Social identity, oriented to

self-acceptance. This chakra is called the heart chakra and is the

middle chakra in a system of seven. It is related to love and is the

integrator of opposites in the psyche: mind and body, male and

female, persona and shadow, ego and unity. A healthy fourth chakra

allows us to love deeply, feel compassion, have a deep sense of peace

and centeredness. The color for this chakra is green. This chakra

deals with physical healing, balance, harmony, compassion and love.

The heart chakra is located near the heart. Fourth chakra : Geranium,

Hawthorn berries, Jasmine, Lavender, Marjoram, Orris root, Rose oil,

Yarrow. For example:

 

Hawthorn berries are the herb of choice for the heart. Hawthorne

Berry may help strengthen the heart, help increase blood flow,

encourage healthy blood pressure levels and maintain healthy

arteries. Useful for anemia, and circulatory disorders, high

cholesterol and lowered immunity. High in Vitamins B & C, it is also

used as a kidney tonic. Often used as a digestive aid.

 

Jasmine, jasmine officinalis is used as a relaxing and antidepressant

oil, which gives rise to it's status as an aphrodisiac. A wonderful

oil for the skin especially dry skin conditions. Calms nerves,

reduces inflammation, fights infection, clears mucus, softens skin.

Thousands of jasmine flower picked at just the right time are then

steam distillation in order to utilize the aromatherapy benefits of

relaxing, soothing and a sheer confidence builder.

 

Rose, is the Mother of All Flowers, the Rose has amazing powers

oflove, trust and self acceptance. Roses are representative offaith,

hope and love and has the qualities to restore the verycenter of

one's being. A gentle tonic of the heart, Rose oil's psychological

properties lie mainly in its effect on the mind,the center of our

emotional being. Rose oil calms and supports the heart and helps to

nourish the soul! Also symbolizing the feminine, red is the color of

choice for Roses used or gathered at Midsummer. Long associated with

the eternity of true love, at Midsummer this flower also blesses the

Sacred Union.

 

 

Visuddhi: 5th Chakra (Throat Chakra): Sound, Creative identity,

oriented to self-expression This is the chakra located in the throat

and is thus related to communication and creativity. Here we

experience the world symbolically through vibration, such as the

vibration of sound representing language. The color for this chakra

is blue. This chakra deals with communication and expression. The

throat chakra is located near the thyroid gland. Opening this chakra

allows you to speak the truth and to express your true feelings with

love. Fifth chakra : Benzoin, Basil, Chamomile, Cypress, Eucalyptus,

Frankincense, Red Clover, Sage. For example:

 

Sage in tincture form or when burned, has a pungent odor. Sage is

used principally for smudging but can also be used in the blessing

down of our homes and vehicles. It is commonly used in medicine tea

to flush ones system of all impurities. In sweat lodge ceremonies,

sage is used to sit on and represents part of the plant world. It is

also burned in smudge pots. The herb is widely used in many of our

sacred ceremonies.

 

Chamomile, an herb of the sun, Chamomile's bright yellow flowers

bring power and light to your space and rituals. Chamomile's

medicinal properties range from skin inflammations to lightening hair

to treating digestive problems. As a mild sedative, anti-

inflammatory, and antibacterial, it improves digestion by relaxing

the muscles throughout the gastrointestinal system and it can induce

an overall sense of calm and well-being.

 

 

Ajna: 6th Chakra (Third Eye Chakra): Light, Archetypal identity,

oriented to self-reflection. This chakra is known as the brow chakra

or third eye center. It is related to the act of seeing, both

physically and intuitively. As such it opens our psychic faculties

and our understanding of archetypal levels. When healthy it allows us

to see clearly, in effect, letting us " see the big picture. " The

color for this chakra is indigo, a combination of red and blue. This

chakra deals with clairvoyance and mental activity. The third eye

chakra is located in the center of the forehead. Sixth chakra :

Eyebright, Jasmine, Mint, Mugwort, Star Anise. For example:

 

Eyebright is one of the primary herbs used for eye care. It has been

depended upon for at least 2000 years in the treatment of various eye

problems. It is especially useful for eyestrain, over-sensitivity to

light, eye inflammations, weeping eyes and other eye ailments. In

addition, Eye Bright can relieve other symptoms that often accompany

runny, sore, itchy eyes due to colds or allergies. This herb lends

its power to the third eye by virtue of it's proximity, it's auric

imprint and true intention.

 

Mugwort is a wonderful warming herb that is used to boost the Yang

energy in . Burned like ceremonial sage or cedar, or

on the body on slices of garlic, ginger or onion, this rich fragrant

herb can assist in any type of cold in the body. Because of its Yang

nature, it assists in the up and outward movement of energy from the

inside (Yin Nature) to cast out into the Universe power of intention

and intuition, which is all that empowers with the third eye.

 

 

Sahasrara: 7th Chakra (Crown or Consciousness Chakra): Thought,

Universal identity, oriented to self-knowledge. This is the crown

chakra that relates to consciousness as pure awareness. It is our

connection to the greater world beyond, to a timeless, spaceless

place of all-knowing. When developed, this chakra brings us

knowledge, wisdom, understanding, spiritual connection, and bliss.

The color for this chakra is a mixture of Silver, Gold and White and

Violet. It is the combination of All that Is and the Divine

Connection. The crown chakra is located at the top of the head. The

silver is the feminine energy of creation, the gold is the masculine

energy of creation, and the white/violet light is truth and clarity

which give clear vision of the truth and protection. Seventh chakra :

Frankincense, Lavender flower, Lotus, Neroli, Rose, Olibanum, Spruce.

For example:

 

Lavender flower stimulates new cell growth, lifts depression, calms

nerves, fights infection, reduces inflammation, and eases congestion.

Relieves pain and muscle spasm. Lowers blood pressure. Steam

distillation of these fragrant flowers creates aromatherapy benefits

such as stimulates, relaxes, calms and soothes the entire body.

 

Frankincense rejuvenates skin, so it's used on mature and aging

complexions and to fade old scars, reduce inflammation, moisturize

dry hair, and cure acne. A holiday favorite, this pungent scent is

often associated with Christmas and is said to be one of the gifts of

the Magi. Its antiseptic properties fight bacterial and fungal skin

infections in a salve, lotion, or as a compress. This oil works in

two ways to help the body fight infection and pain. It first numbs

nerve endings to reduce the amount of pain sensations that reach the

brain. And then it boosts the body's immune system to accelerate the

healing process. As an added bonus, the oil's aroma relaxes the

brain, which helps bring on sleep.

 

Neroli is a rich citrus scent often used in the scenting of perfumes.

Neroli oil has a sweet, floral and slightly haunting aroma. This

essential oil is also known as 'orange blossom' and it takes about

1000 lbs. of orange blossoms to make 1 lb. of Neroli oil. The orange

petals were used in China in the making of cosmetics and are still an

ingredient for making traditional smelling Eau-de-cologne. Orange

petals are often associated with marriage, purity and brides who

traditionally wore it in their hair.

 

 

Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac

http://www.peacefulmind.com/energy_medicine.htm

Therapies for healing

mind, body, spirit