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BIRD CHERRY (Prunus padus)
Key: Sensuality
The bird cherry is a smaller native cherry than the gean and is more common in the north of Britain. Varieties are widely planted for their spectacular sprays of white flowers that open in May when the gean has already faded. The fruit is bitter – hence the name, though like many other cherries the bark is useful as a sedative and a tonic infusion
Bird cherry initiates a healing balance and an increase in happiness. There is a noticeable relaxation, particularly of body-awareness and an increased sensuality.
The Gall Bladder meridian is cleansed of tension created by a sense of self-righteousness. This increases sense of humour and a more tolerant understanding of the self, one’s potential, and acceptance of the possibility for self-healing.
Emotional indifference is eased. There can be deep healing of those emotional wounds, which the outer show of indifference is intended to protect or disguise. Self-criticism and guilt relates to the functions of the Large Intestine meridian and this is energised and balanced with bird cherry. Healing arises when there is a connection of the self to the rest of creation, with the understanding that it is necessary to love and be loved. Feelings of unworthiness, guilt and self-disgust can be dissolved.
The emotional body is freed to enable it to judge more fairly, to see clearly and to communicate true feelings. The mental body can be cleared of negative self-beliefs, increasing the available life-energy and allowing forgiveness.
Signature: The abundant, strongly scented flowers (almond-like, cyagenous compounds), displayed in instantly recognisable spikes suggest self- awareness and pleasure in physical existence. An abundance of expression.
Comment: The stalks of all species of cherry can be infused in water to act as an astringent and tonic.