 |
| Red Chestnut Aesculus carnea (red) |
| Tree & Flower Facts: The Red Chestnut is a species of deciduous trees and shrubs. They have stout shoots with resinous, often sticky, buds. The nuts contain high concentrations of a saponin-class toxin called Aesculin. However, the saponin can be eliminated by boiling the pulverized nuts to yield a wholesome starchy porridge once important to some Native American tribes. Some animals, notably deer and squirrels, are resistant to the toxins and can eat the nuts directly. The wood is very pale whitish-brown, fairly soft and used for furniture, boxes, and firewood. Both the bark and the fruit from the red chestnut trees are used medicinally to strengthen and tone the circulatory system, especially the venous system. It is used both internally and externally to treat varicose veins, phlebitis, and hemorrhoids. Red chestnut preparations are particularly effective in treating varicose ulcers. Due to its ability to improve circulation, it is also helpful for the relief of leg cramps. Its bark also has narcotic and fever-reducing properties. A compound known as aescin, which is present in the red chestnut fruit, is now often added to external creams and preparations used for the treatment of varicose veins, varicose ulcers, bruises, and sports injuries. |
 |
| Tree & Flower Meaning: Attachment, Calmness, Relaxation, Responsibility, and Sensitivity |
 |
| Bloom and Blossom - Root and Grow: To genuinely care for another is a great virtue of the human soul, but this caring can cross the boundary of healthy compassion and turn instead into negative worry and anxiety for another. This is particularly true in a family system or other close relationship, when a parent or spouse is too closely identified with its role as caretaker, and thus becomes unconsciously enmeshed in the psychic space of another. Red Chestnut particularly addresses the mental imbalance which this condition produces. It shows the soul how worry and concern drain the individual of positive vital energy, and does little to help heal the actual situation. When the soul pulls back into its own sphere of consciousness it can effectively anchor itself and become an agent for real healing. The greatest of healing gifts which one can bestow upon another is the ability to radiate calm, loving thoughts. This unconditional regard for anothers' welfare is the great gift of Red Chestnut. The color that represent Red Chestnut is red. The positive qualities of Red Chestnut are: Compassionate and trusting awareness of others; and calm and serene disposition when considering the situation of others or life events. |
|
|
|