The word February comes from the origin ‘Februa’, meaning purification or a cleansing which is related to rituals that were normally done before Spring stepped in for Winter (one may think of the term “spring cleaning” here). Having only 28 days in the month, February has been known to be called “the little month” and although it may have slightly shorter work week, it is ripe with shifts, possibility, celebration, and amour of all kinds.

Imbolc

Imbolc (Imbolg), also called Brigid’s Day, is a traditional Gaelic/Pagan festival occurring the beginning of February that marks the beginning of spring, or the halfway point between the winter solstice and spring equinox. During this time rituals may be performed to honor and let go of the past to make way for the rebirth of spring. The energy of the Crone moves into Maiden, where we may find new areas of softness, curiosity, and adventure. Fire rituals are common around this time, evoking the renewal of ones inner flame and burning what no longer serves in the coming season. This is a great time to reflect upon and reaffirm commitments, resolutions, goals, and spiritual vows that one made in the beginning of the year.

February is a month that has been overwhelmed with Valentine’s Day and the notion of how important we are to our own selves can get a little lost. This is a month that begs for re-dedication to self, spirit, mother earth, and our own heart centers. How does your heart center feel? What could shift in order to feel more fulfilled and excited that you get to be you? This month, Hawthorn is our dear herb ally helping us create necessary boundaries in our lives with ease, tend to any stagnancy in our heart and emotional body, and ground us in devotion and tenderness.

HAWTHORN

Hawthorn knows how to hold onto secrets, create boundaries, and when to be vulnerable and share its story. Indicated for a irritable, nervous heart, Hawthorn can help the body open up to a different way of existing and being. Used for diseases of the heart and blood vessels, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and hardening of the arteries, this plant is wonderful for the circulatory system. The leaves and berries are nutritious and supportive to the heart, as well as being supportive to slow digestion.

Hawthorn has been known to symbolize protection and hope and can be used in protection (especially in hearth & home), grounding, forgiveness, and love spells.

Note: Those on any heart medications who consume Hawthorn should be monitored by their physician as dosages may need to be altered.

IN-HOUSE APOTHECARY CREATIONS

Here at Apothecary Tinctura we have two fabulous in-house creations made with love and care for you that involve our darling herb of the month. Come in to talk to one of our staff herbalists about the powerful healing properties of hawthorn, the flower essence, and our rose-hawthorn syrup.

Hawthorn Flower Essence

Hawthorn flower essence brings protection and strength to the heart, can help regenerate hope and release grief, support one during painful trials of loss and overwhelming sadness, aid in transforming anger and frustration into compassionate creative energy. Take 4 drops on the tongue 3-4 times a day or as needed.

Rose-Hawthorn Syrup

Our beloved apothecary syrup contains a supportive blend of red roses, hawthorn leaf and berry, brandy, and honey, creating a sweet yet grounding sensation for the physical and emotional body. This syrup can be taken straight, added to formulas, or your favorite tea.

Amour Tea Blend

Lemon Verbena - 1 part
Hawthorn Berries - 1/2 part
Hawthorn Leaf - 1/4 part
Pink Rose Petals - 1/8 part
Violet Leaf - Sprinkle

Directions for tea brewing: Add 1 tablespoon per cup of boiling water. Let tea steep for 20-30 minutes, strain, and enjoy! Herbalist tip: A french press is a great and easy way to make loose leaf herbal tea.

Self-Devotion Ritual: Self Love Altar

You can make this ceremony and altar as simple or detailed as you would like. First, clear an area for your altar, this will be a sacred space that is entirely devoted to the most important person in your life - yourself. You may decide to put on your favorite music or items of clothing while you dedicate and create this space.

Cleanse this space using tools such as florida water, loose incense, or clearing bundles that contain herbal allies. Next you will put your power and intention into your altar, remembering that whatever is put upon this altar will be charged by your own individual magic. The items you place are meant to be a representation of what love looks like to you or what you desire it to look like.

You may decide to add specific items on your altar if you have certain desires in mind. You may add things that you love, bring you joy, pleasure, or aid in your healing journey.

Possible additions:

Items that represent things you are trying to manifest for yourself in your life
Items that represent attributes that you love about yourself
Flowers, chocolate, wine, pictures, poetry
Rose quartz or other crystals
Red or pink candles

Have the altar be somewhere that you will be able to see and interact with on a daily basis. It is meant to be a space where you can authentically be and tend to yourself. Maybe leave sweet love notes or letters for yourself to read over the weekend or use your love altar as a meditation or reflection space. ~ Happy Creating and Blessed Be!

Sending love and sweetness your way this month!

February: Heart Medicine & Love Magic