Herbs that Love your Heart

“Heart” in Traditional Chinese Medicine encompasses more than just the organ itself. It is the organ, the circulatory system, and the brain. It houses the Shen, which in a really short

watered down explanation is your mind and emotions. Anxiety is one of the biggest indicators of a Heart imbalance, so herbs that nourish the ‘Heart’ not only support the organ

itself, but also calm the mind and emotions. Here is a quick list of some of my favorite herbs

to support the physical and emotional heart.

Hawthorn Flowers, Leaves and Berries all benefit the Heart.

1. Hawthorn- The Heart’s Best Friend

Hawthorn has been treasured for centuries as a go-to remedy for heart health. Its berries, leaves, and flowers are loaded with flavonoids that strengthen the heart muscle and the contraction of the heart, improve circulation, and regulate blood pressure. Hawthorn also relaxes blood vessels, helping blood flow smoothly. Whether as a tea, tincture, or capsule, infused honey, or a yummy cordial, hawthorn offers your heart consistent, gentle care.

Hawthorn berries are super high in pectin and have so much versatility in food

2. Linden- Hawthorn’s sidekick.

Linden leaves and blossoms are a gentle remedy for calming both the mind and the heart. This fragrant herb is known to ease stress-induced tension, lower blood pressure, and improve circulation. Linden tea is particularly beloved for its ability to relax the nervous

system and support restful sleep, giving your heart the downtime it needs to recharge.

Often when certain herbs are paired together, it enhances the effects of both herbs. I almost always use Hawthorn and Linden together as in my experience they work much better that way.

Linden- sometimes referred to as American Basswood has an amazing fragrance during the blooming season.

3. Dan Shen-premier Blood Mover

Dan Shen, or red sage root, is a powerful herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Known for its ability to improve blood circulation and reduce Blood stagnation, it’s particularly useful for supporting heart health after emotional or physical stress. It also is very good for

calming the Shen. Dan Shen has antioxidant properties that protect the heart from damage over time. It’s most commonly used as a tincture or in herbal blends.

Dan Shen- Salvia miltiorrhiza makes a beautiful addition to the flower garden.

4. Motherwort- protects the heart

Turn to Motherwort when your heart feels overwhelmed—literally or figuratively. Known for its ability to calm heart palpitations and reduce anxiety, Motherwort supports a steady

and peaceful heartbeat. It also has mild blood-pressure-lowering effects, making it an excellent ally for those prone to stress. It is a premier herb for protecting a mother’s emotional Heart in the postpartum period. As it is quite bitter, a tincture is the best way to harness its grounding powers.

Motherwort has spikes around its flowers. It is a Doctrine of Signatures that indicates Motherwort is protective.

5. Rose

Beyond its romantic symbolism, rose has therapeutic benefits for both emotional and physical heart health. Rose petals are known for their calming and uplifting properties, easing emotional heartache and stress. Rose hips, the fruit of the rose plant, are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants that support overall cardiovascular health. Infuse petals in tea or enjoy a syrup made from the hips for a fragrant dose of wellness.

While there are many, many herbs useful for heart health, these are a few of my favorites that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine!