Healing Properties of The 13 African Tree Essences
Tree of Grace ~ The Myrsine Mystery
Key Qualities: transcendence, spiritual evolution, miracles and magic, grace and gratitude, radical faith
Balances: existential loneliness, alienation, fear of the unknown
Affirmation: I am a child of the Universe and I am gracefully aligned with the Divine Blue Print of Life which is forever unfolding.
Supportive Essences: Bladdernut, White Pear and Baobab
See Also: Myrsine Mystical Mist
The Myrsine Mystery – Tree of Grace Essence
The Tree of Grace is a tree of mystery. She holds the energy of evolution and magic in motion – boundless, unknown and infinite. Rich in potential and possibility, she reminds us of how little we truly know about the universal forces that underpin and manifest our earthly existence. Words cannot pin her down for she is currently in the process of creating herself.
This new Platbos tree was discovered (see details below) at a key time for humanity: its essence is here to assist and support us as we navigate through the great shift into the Golden Age of Aquarius. This essence holds us in a space of grace and faith as we open to and embrace the magic of the unknown.
The Tree of Grace essence is particularly helpful for Empaths, Highly Sensitives and Neurodivergent people. It is a comforting essence for those who have often felt alone, and “out of place and time”. It assists with accessing and developing our unique gifts, and with connecting to our greater “soul tribe” where we can find resonance, purpose and belonging.
Botanical Info
Family: Primulaceae
Botanical Name: Myrsine pillansii
Common Name: Large Cape Myrtle
Photos of the Platbos Myrsine pillansii by Kali van der Merwe
Large Cape Myrtles / Myrsine pillansii most often occur as multi-stemmed shrubs but occasionally – like the one at Platbos Forest Reserve – they are found as small trees of roughly 4 to 6 metres in height. These are protected trees in South Africa because of their rarity. They have been discovered growing amongst low scrub and along streams on the edge of evergreen forest. Their leaves are shiny and dark green on the upper surface, and a paler green below. They are elliptic in shape with finely serrated edges. The bark is grey and roughly textured and reminds me of the coarse hide of a rhinoceros. The tiny flowers are a glistening white with miniscule splotches of magenta. They occur in clusters along the ends of the branches. The fruit is a small, beige coloured berry, the size of a peppercorn.
The Myrsine pillansii is elusive and rare. It was only in 2018, thirteen years after making our home at Platbos, that this tree was identified as the fourteenth tree species of Platbos. Our Myrsine grows as a small tree of about six metres in height. It occurs in the uppermost reaches of the forest, its branches snaking through a low-growing Milkwood. Both trees are surrounded by a dense tangle of Spike Thorns, Fine Ironwoods and Saffronwoods. The dark green leaves of the Myrsine blend with the general foliage and we passed it numerous times over the years without seeing it. When we did finally notice it, samples of the leaves, flowers and fruit were sent to a number of botanists for identification but it drew a blank. In the end, it was the tree who told me her name.
I was examining the tiny flowers with a magnifying glass and they reminded me of another Platbos plant species, the Cape Myrtle (Myrsine africana), a pretty and prolific understory shrub here. I quickly consulted my copy of Trees of Southern Africa by Coates Palgrave – the “Tree Bible” – to see what other Myrsine species were listed. Sure enough, a small tree, bearing resemblances to the one here, was described: the Myrsine pillansii. I sent off flower and leaf samples to the Kirstenbosch Herbarium in Cape Town with the suggestion that it was a Myrsine pillansii and shortly thereafter my identification was confirmed.
For me, this is a powerful example of intuitive interspecies communication in action. The flowers that I examined – tiny as they were – turned out to be the old, spent flower calyxes. The fresh flowers of the Myrsine pillansii – along with its leaves and other growth patterns – bear no obvious resemblance to those of the Myrsine africana which are delicate, wispy shrubs no more than about 75 centimetres in height. Yet, in a matter of minutes I had correctly identified the tree. The tree, I believe, sent me a psychic message that bypassed the usual scientific methods of identification which would have been time consuming and arduous given the rarity of this tree and the fact that highly respected botanists had already failed to recognize it. This is not to say that the Linnaean taxonomic system is not of value – as a horticulturist I use it all the time with plant identification – but rather it is to highlight the intelligence of the Green Beings and their ability to communicate with us if we are prepared to listen intuitively to them.
Having identified it however, the Mystery Tree – as I dubbed her– continued to mystify and perplex me. I refer to this tree as a “she” both because her energy feels feminine to me, and also because this tree carries female flowers that turn into small, brownish-red fruit. The Large Cape Myrtle is dioecious – the male and female flowers are found on separate trees. While it is possible that another Large Myrtle will still be discover in the Reserve, for now this one appears to be an isolated specimen whose fruits will likely be sterile as she has no mate. I have not found any seedlings coming up in the area, so likely this is the case.
Not much is known about the Myrsine pillansii. Specimens have been recorded throughout South Africa: the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, the North West Province and Zimbabwe. However, it is a very rare species of sporadic occurrence; and hence there is little information about it. Invaluable then is John Burrow’s article on the Myrsine pillansii in 1999’s edition of Plantlife (20/1999). He too found himself immersed in the Myrsine Mystery when isolated specimens were discovered in the Buffelskloof Nature Reserve in Mpumalanga. To summarise Burrow’s findings, the Myrsine pillansii, when it occurs, is always found in the presence of the delicate understory shrub, Myrsine africana. In addition, on two different occasions, when hundreds of the Myrsine africana seeds were sown, a single Myrsine pillansii seedling appeared amongst the other seedlings which germinated true to type. From this, it has been surmised that the Myrsine pillansii may not be a distinct specie of its own but rather a polyploid.
Polyploids are a genetic anomaly wherein the individual possesses a natural doubling of the chromosomes of the parent plant. This results in a larger individual, with bigger leaves, flowers and growth patterns. The natural phenomenon of polyploidy is considered to play a significant role in the evolution of higher plants. In fact, the majority of flowering plants and vertebrates have descended from polyploid ancestors. Polyploidy is the most rapid method known to produce radically different and robust new individuals that are able to adapt and thrive in changing environmental conditions. *1
Intuitively, my sense is that the Myrsine pillansii is indeed an evolving new tree species – that the scattering of isolated trees found around Southern Africa are the forerunners – and that one day they will produce viable seed.
My challenge is to successfully propagate the seed of the Platbos Myrsine pillansii; failing that, a molecular study is required to unravel the Myrsine Mystery once and for all.
References:
Trees of Southern Africa – Keith Coates Palgrave, Second Revised Edition, 1988
BURROWS, J.E. (1999). What is Myrsine pillansii? PlantLife 20: 25-26.
*1 https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/polyploidy).
*2 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0092867407013402
Photos of the Platbos Myrsine pillansii by Kali van der Merwe
Copyright © Melissa (Krige) Saayman
Tree of Wholeness ~ Milkwood
The energy of the milkwood tree brings a deep sense of connection and belonging. The energy of the milkwood tree can assist us with feeling at home on the Earth – it connects you with your personal power, and reminds you on the cellular level that we are all one family. This is a nurturing and supportive tree and the essence may balance feelings of insecurity and lack of grounding. May be useful for adjusting to changes in the family structure brought about through loss or divorce. Milkwood essence may be helpful for nightmares and fears of the unknown.
This essence enlightens the root chakra.
Affirmation: I am One with the Earth. I receive and share her abundance with gratitude. I am worthy of abundance.
Corresponding Colour: Red
Supportive Essences: The white stinkwood and the spike thorn essences may act as supportive essences to the milkwood essence – particularly if the milkwood essence is being used to address a long-standing imbalance and an “awareness crisis” has arisen. An awareness crisis is an intensification of negative feelings or old patterns of being. It is the soul’s way of calling our attention to these old blockages that need to be acknowledged, blessed and released.
Botanical Info
The Milkwood
Sideroxylon inerme
Family: SAPOTACEAE
Learning about how this tree grows in nature, brings further appreciation of its essence:
Milkwoods are hardy, slow-growing trees with deep-green, leathery leaves and rough grayish-brown bark. Rarely are they found with a straight trunk. Instead their gnarled, sprawling branches create sheltering thickets that are home to a variety of wild life. By creating dense, low-crowing stands, milkwoods are one of the few trees able to withstand the salt-laden winds that batter South Africa’s southern coastline. Although also occurring inland, milkwoods are found mainly along the coast from the Cape Peninsula to northern Zululand. In days gone by, the site of a farmyard was often determined by the presence of a milkwood. Their thick, umbrella-shaped crowns created a perfect ‘roof’ for the meat chests that pre-dated refrigerators. Amazingly, all the milkwood trees at Platbos are genetically the same tree. Here they do not propagate themselves by seed dispersal – instead, when a milkwood grows old and falls over, a “new” tree sprouts from the fallen trunk. It is as though one enormous, ancient tree is slowly walking through the forest!
The delicate, pale-golden flowers of the milkwood are borne in clusters along the ends of the branches and they have an unusual sour-smell. The flowers are followed by juicy, dark magenta-coloured fruit that are enjoyed by birds and baboons. Once peeled of their outer skin, they have a grape-like taste. The milky latex, which gives the tree its common name, makes the leaves and the bark unpalatable to grazing animals. A superficial scratch to the bark reveals a bright red under surface – the colour of fresh blood. In the old days, trees that “bled” where held as particularly sacred trees.
The wood is very hard, heavy and strong. In the past, it was used for ship building, bridges, mills and ploughs. It is very durable even when wet and it shrinks little with drying. Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
Traditionally the milkwood has a number of medicinal uses: the roots have been used to aid the healing of fractured bones and an infusion of the bark is said to dispel nightmares.
Feedback on the Milkwood Essence:
The milkwood essence has been amazing – it has certainly helped me to shift a very important issue of grounding – to do mainly with trust – and it has allowed me to get in touch with a part of myself which has been incredible. A lot of fear came up which obviously was very deeply seated. Thank you so much and I must commend you on the amazing work that you are doing. – Gretha, Quantum Healer
The milkwood essence is very helpful. I often wake in the early hours of the morning with a panicky, claustrophobic feeling. If I take the essence before I go to bed, I have found that I do not have this experience. Stanley, Psychologist
I have been using the Milkwood every day and was wondering why I was feeling increasingly lonely and sad and lost and having issues with friendships etc – till I realised duh! – this must be the awareness crisis you describe. It hasn’t been too comfortable, but I have had some hugely important insights and personal shifts, and am feeling a lot clearer today and somehow ‘held’ as well. I now have even more respect for the potency of the essences! – Fiona
The Milkwood Essence cleared the pain in my hip that was referring to the lower groin area and down my leg. It was gone within a day. – Monica, Domestic Worker
(milkwood bark was traditionally used for broken bones – so the essence is helpful here – this essence is very much to do with underlying structure and form; stability and grounding.)
I think the Milkwood made me look long and hard at boundary issues and the dangers of giving away your power and being over-obliging in order to please. Interesting, because I was expecting to feel immediately all warm and cosy and ‘one’ with everyone, but of course the emphasis is on wholeness first. I have been seeing that to relate truly to others, one must first know and accept oneself and be willing to be seen and heard and authentically oneself in relationships. I’m trying not to ignore my own needs all the time in favour of others and then moving into silent resentment at being taken for granted. All very complicated, but in essence (!pun!) I have been re-connecting with myself first, being more honest and holding my own ground more. There has been some quite startling fall-out with friends especially, but that’s ok – things have needed to change, and I feel quite protected and cheerful about it at the same time. Healthier (wholer) relationships will result. So the Milkwood has been both quite transformative and comforting. – Pippa
We welcome your feedback on the African Tree Essences: if you would like to share your experiences about this essence, please contact us.
At Platbos there is a great forest elder whose trunk is estimated to be well over 1000 years of age. There are four milkwood trees in South Africa that have been awarded National Monument status and these are their stories:
The Post Office Tree of Mossel Bay
In 1500 a letter describing the unfortunate drowning at sea of Bartholomew Diaz, the famous explorer, was placed in a shoe by Portuguese sailors and tied to this milkwood tree. It was found over a year later by the man to whom it was addressed, Commander Joao Nova
The Treaty Tree, Woodstock, Cape Town
It was here, in 1806 that the commander of local defenses formally handed over the Cape to the British following the Battle of Blaauwberg.
The Fingo Milkwood Tree, near Peddie, Eastern Cape
The Fingo people pledged their loyalty to God and the British king under this tree in 1835.
Milkwood at Rhenosterfontein Farm, near Bredasdorp
This milkwood has been awarded National Monument status in recognition of its size and age: the trunk has a girth of over 3 metres and the crown a spread of over 20 metres.
Milkwoods are protected in South Africa and may not be cut without a permit.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Joy ~ White Pear
The white pear tree connects you with your heart’s desire – this is a hugely uplifting, joyful tree that opens your eyes to the beauty of life. White pear has an exuberant, feminine energy that enhances self-acceptance and open-heartedness. It may assist you with finding your path in life provided that you have the commitment to follow through with what is asked of you. The white pear may be a good essence to use when you need to manifest abundance in your life.
Affirmation: I am perfect. I love and embrace the totality of my Being. I see and celebrate this perfection in others.
Corresponding Colour: Coral Pink
Supportive Essence: the Sea Guarrie may act as a supportive essence to the White Pear essence, particularly if the White Pear essence is being used to address a long-standing imbalance and an “awareness crisis” has arisen. An awareness crisis is an intensification of negative feelings or old patterns of being. It is the soul’s way of calling our attention to these old blockages that need to be acknowledged, blessed and released.
Botanical Info
White Pear
Apodytes dimidiata
Family: ICACINACEAE
Learning about how this tree grows in nature, brings further appreciation of its essence:
A stately evergreen tree, the white pear can grow with a long straight trunk to over twenty meters in height under forest conditions; rocky and exposed sites result in small, gnarled and compact specimens. Easily adapted, it is found from the Cape Province in southern Africa to Ethiopia in the north.
The white pear bears a profusion of sweetly scented white flowers and their sweet vanilla scent perfumes the warm summer months. These are followed by the fruit – an asymmetrical black drupe with a red, fleshy appendage. The bark is a pale gray on young trees and it is often covered by white and orange lichens at Platbos. The branches and trunks turn a darker gray as the tree ages.
The timber of the white pear has been prized since the first days of colonization for its strong, elastic qualities. It was much sought after by wagon builders and as a result most of the country’s finest trees were logged out. It is a valued wood for furniture making and it has also been used for flooring, veneering, paneling, rifle stocks and engraving for printing. Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
Traditionally the root bark is used to treat intestinal parasites and the leaves are used as a remedy for ear infections. The white pear is also revered for it protective powers and it is said to ward off evil spirits. The Department of Biology at the University of Kwazulu Natal has identified compounds found in its leaves as a potential molluscicide for the snails involved in the lifecycle of bilharzia.
The white pear is a protected tree in South Africa. They make beautiful specimen, shade trees and they also prune well so can be grown as dense, screening hedges. The roots are non-invasive and they are fast growing trees.
Feedback on the White Pear Essence
The white pear essence is incredible! I am a new person after using the white pear for the past four days. My business has been going through some tough times and I was feeling suicidal. The white pear essence has totally turned me around and I am re-evaluating my priorities. I am clearer of what I want to manifest into my life; I feel like a new woman! – Erin, Producer of Organic, Plant Based Cosmetics
A friend came to stay and in the middle of the night, developed a high fever and swollen joints, I got up to help, really half asleep and went straight to the box, used my pendulum to see which essence to use, dosed him and also used a few drops on a cold compress…I didn’t even looked to see what essence I had taken !!! The next morning his fever and pain had gone ..he thought it was just the cold compress, but admitted (later) he thought the essence must have had something to do with his recovery too. (He hasn’t really been exposed to this sort of thing so doesn’t really believe that it could work). The essence was White Pear and fitted the emotional side perfectly! – Vanessa Muhl
We welcome your feedback on the African Tree Essences: if you would like to share your experiences about this essence, please contact us.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Bliss ~ Rock Alder
The rock alder tree has a sensual, fresh and youthful energy. The rock alder assists with balancing the inner male and female energies. This essence may be helpful for maintaining boundaries and balance in relationships and may be especially helpful for those who idealize their partners or whom have co-dependency issues. Rock alder essence may aid with expressing our inner-most feelings and so assist with fostering increased trust and harmony within intimate relationships.
This essence enlightens the sacral chakrum.
Affirmation: My inner feminine and masculine energies are in Divine balance. This harmony is reflected in all of my relationships.
Corresponding Colour: Orange
Supportive Essences: The Wild Olive essence may act as a supportive essence to the Rock Alder essence – particularly if the Rock Alder essence is being used to address a long-standing imbalance and an “awareness crisis” has arisen. An awareness crisis is an intensification of negative feelings or old patterns of being. It is the soul’s way of calling our attention to these old blockages that need to be acknowledged, blessed and released.
Botanical Info
The Rock Alder
Canthium mundianum
Family: RUBIACEAE
Learning about how this tree grows in nature, brings further appreciation of its essence:
The rock alder is a small, semi-deciduous tree that reaches a height of about five meters. It is often found as a pioneer species, reclaiming areas of disturbed ground. The rock alder grows in evergreen forest, scrub land and rocky outcrops.
Rock alders are delicate in appearance, with pale, straight trunks that look and feel as if they have been carved from alabaster. They have an interesting growth form – arrow-straight with their side branches angled at 45° to the main trunk. In Spring the trees are studded with limey-green leaf buds. The small green and white flowers appear soon there after – they have an unusual, sweet fertile smell. The flowers are followed by asymmetrical, 2-lobed fruit that are black when ripe, and enjoyed by birds and baboons.
The timber is long lasting and makes good fence posts, furniture and small implements. It is resistant to borers and termites and is often associated with termite mounds. Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
The rock alder has great potential as a landscape tree, and is reminiscent of the European silver birch. They have a youthful and vibrant life force.
Feedback on the Rock Alder Essence
The African Tree Essences work almost directly on old/past lifetimes. We have already seen some deep healing/transformative results from them. Probably, the thousand and more old trees are easy to connect with these old and ancient traumas. I have never seen such a fast and direct influence on past lifetime issues. What we see is that they wake up the old patterns, so you are able to remove these. Bram Zaalberg, Bloesem Remedies, Netherlands
We welcome your feedback on the African Tree Essences: if you would like to share your experiences about this essence, please contact us.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Self-Knowledge ~ Black Bark (Bladder Nut)
The black bark teaches us that being our authentic self is all that is required. By removing the need to be other than who we truly are, our life force is liberated. Paradoxically, in our humility we access our true, authentic power. By bringing our awareness to those parts of ourselves that we find shameful or unlovable, black bark may enable us to gain a greater understanding of unconscious patterns of behaviour that we then have the ability to transform. The black bark can assist us with centering and enhances the sense of feeling at home in your own skin.
Affirmation: My inner Light is a gift to the world. I shine my Light and rejoice in its beauty.
Corresponding Colour: Gold
Supportive Essence: The saffronwood essence may act as a supportive essence to the bladdernut essence – particularly if the bladder nut essence is being used to address a long-standing imbalance and an “awareness crisis” has arisen. An awareness crisis is an intensification of negative feelings or old patterns of being. It is the soul’s way of calling our attention to these old blockages that need to be acknowledged, blessed and released.
Botanical Info
The Bladder Nut / Black Bark
Diospyros whyteana
Family: EBENACEAE
Learning about how this tree grows in nature, brings further appreciation of its essence:
The bladder nut is a small, evergreen tree occurring from the Western Cape of South Africa up to Ethiopia. It is found in forests, mountain slopes and shady mountain ravines. At Platbos, the bladder nut grows as a delicate, understory tree.
White, sweetly scented flowers appear in spring. Like bonneted young girls, the flowers seem to gaze shyly downwards. The red berries that follow are encased within a papery calyx – it is this inflated, bladder-like seed pod that gave rise to one of this tree’s common names, “bladder nut”. The fruits are enjoyed by many bird species and the attractive glossy-green leaves are browsed on by buck as well as livestock.
The new leaves are covered in silky, copper-coloured hairs that bring life and sparkle to the shadows. The bark of the bladdernut is an attractive dark, grayish-black. The wood is heavy and evenly grained and makes beautiful household articles and implements. Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
The seeds are roasted and used as a coffee substitute and the tree has a number of medicinal uses: bark extracts are used to treat infertility, impotency and menstrual pain, and leaf and root infusions are used to soothe skin rashes.
The bladder nut is a popular bonsai subject and it is used increasingly in landscaping – its neat form and attractive foliage make it a good choice for city gardens. It grows happily in the shade and in containers and is excellent as a clipped hedge.
Feedback on the Bladder Nut / Black Bark Essence:
I would like to add the testimonial of the most skeptical person I know about this matter: myself. I always had self-esteem problems and I wanted to try something non chemical to resolve this, so I stumbled upon the bladder nut tree essence. Have you ever experienced that an imaginary elephant is sitting on your chest when it is time to make a decision? Well, I have experienced that for almost all my life, but once I started using bladder nut essence, the elephant on my chest has left. Thanks African Tree Essences!! – Marco Vicini
BioResonance testing has shown that the Bladder Nut tree essence works to balance and harmonize all of the chakras – Melissa Krige
We welcome your feedback on the African Tree Essences: if you would like to share your experiences about this essence, please contact us.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Courage ~ Wild Peach
The wild peach tree has a potent energy to assist with putting you in touch with your personal power. This tree fosters courage and confidence, and brings focus and clarity. Like a clear bright light, it shines the way forward. This is essence may help to balance indecision and procrastination. Wild peach may assist you in accessing the spiritual courage to speak your truth in the face of intimidation or oppression.
This essence enlightens the solar plexus chakra.
Affirmation: I have the courage to create my own reality, to speak my truth and to follow my own path. I trust my inner guidance.
Corresponding Colour: Yellow
Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Forgiveness ~ Hard Pear
The hard pear reminds us that all that we experience is part of our spiritual evolution. Hard pear can bring a higher understanding of why things have unfolded the way that they have, and she can help us to see the positive in even a painful event. The hard pear’s energy is like a golden spiral – endlessly expanding upwards – like our spiritual growth. When we are able to see events from a spiritual platform of understanding, then it is possible to forgive others (or ourselves) of any wrong-doing. Unshed tears can then be processed and released so that self-healing can take place. The hard pear may be helpful for letting go of grudges and bitterness, and may benefit those suffering from post-traumatic stress syndrome.
Affirmation: I release all past judgements. I now see the perfection in all things.
Corresponding Colour: Lime Green
Supportive Essence: the cherry wood may act as a supportive essence to the hard pear essence, particularly if the hard pear essence is being used to address a long-standing imbalance and an “awareness crisis” has arisen. An awareness crisis is an intensification of negative feelings or old patterns for which a flower essence was being taken. It is the soul’s way of calling our attention to these old blockages that need to be acknowledged, blessed and released.
Botanical Info
The Hard Pear
Olinia ventosa
Family: OLINIACEAE
Learning about how this tree grows in nature, brings further appreciation of its essence:
The hard pear, an evergreen tree, occurs in forests, coastal scrub and on exposed hillsides from the Cape Peninsula to just above the east coast of South Africa. Under forest conditions it has proven itself to be the fastest growing of all of the South African indigenous trees.
The bark is smooth and grayish in young trees, becoming rough and scaly with a reddish tinge as it ages. Hard pears are spectacular when in flower, for although small, the white flowers are borne in profusion and are sweetly scented. The red, berry-like fruits are eaten by a variety of birds, and are greatly relished by the baboons that visit Platbos. The fact that the seeds do not germinate easily is no doubt the reason why this beautiful tree remains relatively unknown to South African gardeners.
All parts of the tree smell strongly of almonds when crushed, and the dead wood gives off a glorious incense when burnt. The Xhosa name for this tree means “tree without embers”, indicating that in spite of its perfume, it does not make good firewood. The timber is hard, heavy and comparable to walnut. It was used for telegraph poles and wagon-making in the past. Today it is mainly used for furniture and musical instruments. Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
The hard pears were heavily exploited for their timber in days past at Platbos: as a result very few have single straight trunks – most are large and multi-stemmed – having re-sprouted after being felled. It is perhaps for this reason that of all the trees of Platbos, this was the tree that was most difficult to connect with initially. I needed to slowly build up a relationship of trust with the hard pear Deva. She teaches us the huge healing that comes from forgiveness.
Feedback on the Hard Pear Essence:
I am using Hard Pear for my “rescue” mare who was badly treated as a young horse and it seems to have helped settle her, she has 10 drops mixed with 5 mls of water once a day orally – Sam, horse owner.
The Hard Pear essence has such a gentle, loving energy. It feels as though the tree itself holds you supportively by the hand as you revisit old hurts and sorrows. – Erica
We welcome your feedback on the African Tree Essences: if you would like to share your experiences about this essence, please contact us.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Loving Kindness ~ Spike Thorn
The spike thorn tree has a powerful energy that speaks of “Christ Consciousness”. Spike thorn softens the heart and teaches the value of surrender. It encourages expression of the true self – so that one’s words become like song birds set free. The spike thorn maybalance feelings of limitation, bitterness and spiteful anger with compassion, devotion and a sense of being at one with the flow of life.
This essence enlightens the heart chakra.
Affirmation: I open my heart to love. Love transforms my world. I am Love.
Corresponding Colour: Green
Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Inspiration ~ Sea Guarrie
The sea guarrie tree holds a bubbly, sparkling energy – like liquid sunshine it offers a sense of renewal. Sea guarrie brings back colour, excitement and enthusiasm – this is an uplifting tree that energizes the creative spirit. It brings in new energy to inspire and lighten your journey and this essence may help to balance depression, apathy and indifference.
Affirmation: Love is the source of my inspiration and joy. I create miracles of great beauty in my life.
Corresponding Colour: Turquoise
Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Faith ~ African Wild Olive
The African wild olive essence may be useful in times of need, despair or exhaustion – when fortitude, strength and protection are required. African wild olive’s energy offers faith and perseverance for the darkest hour before the dawn. The image is of a rainbow of the clearest hues arching across an endless sea and sky of blue. African wild olive essence may encourage vocal self-expression and it holds a strength that may be experienced as deeply comforting and reassuring.
This essence enlightens the throat chakra.
Affirmation: Through silence and meditation, I connect with the Source: the well spring of my Soul. I am One with Life.
Corresponding Colour: Blue
Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Comfort ~ Saffron Wood
The saffronwood essence may be helpful for tender-hearted souls who are easily bruised by life, and for those who feel their emotions very deeply. The energy of this tree offers comfort for hurt, loss, grief or tearfulness. Saffronwood may assist with voicing one’s troubles or fears and may be beneficial for young children who suffer from home-sickness or who struggle to adjust to school. This essence may balance over-protective parents who are irrationally fearful for the safety of their children.
Affirmation: I trust in the wisdom of my heart. I trust in the process of life.
Corresponding Colour: Silver
Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Intuition ~ Pock Ironwood (Fine Ironwood)
The pock ironwood essence may enhance receptivity and intuition, and may bring focus, clarity and perspective. This essence may assist us with seeing the “bigger picture” and with gaining a new perspective of the status quo. The pock ironwood may aid in connecting with your inner wisdom and with opening the crown chakra so that the third eye is illuminated with cosmic consciousness.
This essence enlightens the third eye chakra.
Affirmation: My inner sight is illuminated by Divine wisdom. I see through the lens of Love and Light.
Corresponding Colour: Indigo
Supportive Essences: The wild peach essence may act as a supportive essence to the pock ironwood – particularly if the pock ironwood essence is being used to address a long-standing imbalance and an “awareness crisis” has arisen. An awareness crisis is an intensification of negative feelings or old patterns of being. It is the soul’s way of calling our attention to these old blockages that need to be acknowledged, blessed and released.
Botanical Info
The Pock Ironwood (Fine Ironwood)
Chionanthus foveolata
Family: OLEACEAE
Learning about how this tree grows in nature, brings further appreciation of its essence:
An evergreen, the pock / fine ironwood can range in size from five to thirty meters in height depending on its habitat. It occurs along the coast of South Africa on hillsides, wooded ravines, lowland forests and dune scrub. Sprays of small, sweetly scented white flowers appear from late winter to spring. The flowers are followed by fleshy, ovoid, purple-black fruit that germinate readily. The fruits are enjoyed by numerous bird species. A member of the olive family, this is a tough, wind-resistant tree – perfect for coastal gardens and hedging.
At Platbos this is one of the hardiest of all the forest trees. Its seedlings often carpet the dry forest floor for years, patiently waiting for a gap in the canopy and a good winter rain to fuel their upward growth. The timber of the trees is pale in colour with streaks of dark brown. It is strong and heavy. The outer bark is a soft silvery-grey. Wind-fallen branches are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pens, pendulums and pendants.
One of the tree’s common names, “pock ironwood” comes from the little pock marks that dot the central veins of the leaves. Inside these little hollows live minute microbes that live symbiotically on the leaf surface, cleaning them of debris and mold.
Feedback on the Pock Ironwood Essence
On evaluating the Pock Ironwood essence, it has a radiant field 7” above the crown (level of the 8th Chakra – the Ovoid or maybe even the 9th Chakra) It triangulates down to the Star gates (atlanto occipital junctions), and has connections to the reflected chakras above the crown. So far we have no indications of its activity within the major or minor chakra system, however I felt that this essence merited further reflection and so watch this space. – Dr.A. Brito-Babapulle (Kinesiologist and creator of the TEK muscle testing methodology, United Kingdom)
Pock Ironwood essence is useful for people in a higher state of consciousness, and for balancing the higher chakras; it is of use to correct the auric fields and to balance the higher aspects of the energy system – Dr Adrian Brito- Babapulle
The Pock Ironwood essence holds the archetype of the Krone; it enables you to access your wisdom and shows you hidden connections. Use it to gain a new perspective on your life or problem at hand. It helps you get to the root of the problem and will show you where to make changes. – Jomien Rabie, Energy Healer
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
Tree of Serenity ~ Cherry Wood
The energy of the cherry wood tree is soothing and calming. This is an essence that may balance feelings of shock, fear, fright or trauma. Cherry wood may unlock the sense of being “frozen” in the trauma and so create a safe and contained space for self-healing. Cherry wood is a wonderfully comforting essence and may assist with gently reintegrating back into life after the trauma has passed.
Affirmation: The outer world reflects my inner Peace. I am Peace.
Corresponding Colour: Magenta
Feedback on the Cherry Wood Essence:
I find the cherry wood very helpful – I am able to sleep at night and it calms me down. I will definitely recommend it. – Marie
(Marie had a very traumatic experience of being “Car-jacked”)
I have always suffered with headaches at night time – the Cherry Wood essence has taken care of all that – no more headaches and I sleep so well. This remedy has also cleared the abdominal pain left from after my miscarriage – my body now feels healed and “together” again. I am also feeling so much happier and lighter. – Monica
I use the Cherry Wood for one of my older horses who is very anxious and quite insecure. I recently moved stables and he coped extremely well, settling quickly, he has 10 drops in his water bucket at night. – Sam, horse owner.
The Cherry Wood essence has really helped me through a traumatic time!
Knowing you have breast cancer is quite a reality check but it was the 6 weeks of daily radiotherapy that really horrified me. The thought of nuking healthy cells too goes against everything I believe in. Initially I was very emotionally traumatised by that rush of yang energy of the treatment, but very soon, and I do believe with much help from the Cherry Wood and the positive visualisation it afforded me, I started to relax and was able to thank the radiotherapy for the good it was doing! At first, the improvement was emotional and mental, but as the weeks passed and I had my weekly checks by the oncologist, both the radiographers treating me and the onc started commenting on my very positive attitude, my energy and how well my skin was handling the usually damaging rays. And by the end of the 6 weeks my breast was showing almost no visual effect of the treatment! The expected “skin burn”, breast shrinkage and slight hardening just never happened! I was able to continue working full time and have an active social life without feeling exhausted. In fact, in the end, I sailed through something I had dreaded! I thank the Cherry Wood essence for soothing my shock and calming me to the point that very little physical or emotional trauma was evident and I know my energy was not as sapped as others on the same treatment. – Andrée
Melissa’s labor of love in bringing forth these unique thirteen African Tree Essences from a place of all our origins, is a veritable gift to the world of essences and to healing. They provide an important piece of the puzzle, and have become a valuable addition to my essence repertoire. America is still reverberating from the shock of 9/11 and the ensuing wars, and I am finding that the Cherry Wood and Spike Thorn are coming forward frequently to be used in my work. – Patricia Meyer, Flower Essence Practitioner and Teacher, USA
I took Cherry Wood the afternoon that I got the essences. During that night I had the most real dream that I was working again in the office that I left 9 years ago.
I woke up during the dream as I was crying real tears! My rational mind said “oh look there is stuff from work that you have not released and are doing it now” and I went back to sleep and went into the same “dream” again. It all ended with me realizing that I did not belong there and did not wish to be a part of what I was experiencing. So although I had thought there was no cellular memory of the hassles I had while I was working it must have been deep seated and the drops brought it out. So the African Tree Essences work not only on past life stuff but this life as well! Absolutely brilliant. – Jean, Energy Healer
My workshop went really well. In fact, it was exquisite and I linger in the afterglow still.
The cherry wood did exactly as promised, I felt grounded, solid, in power, clear headed with an acute capacity for discernment and my senses were wide open, receptive and attuned. I had energy that felt boundless and a sense of compassion and humour that was amplified beyond what I know as “normal”. All in all, a fantastic experience. – Jackie Plank, Clinical Psychologist
I use the cherry wood essence for stilling that nervous “butterflies” in the stomach feeling when giving a speech or interview. Public speaking has always been a challenge for me and of all the remedies that I have tried, the Cherry Wood essence has been most effective: A few drops, applied directly to where the nervousness is felt, clears it immediately. It brings calm and clear thinking so that you can deliver your message unhindered and actually enjoy the experience – Melissa Krige
We welcome your feedback on the African Tree Essences: if you would like to share your experiences about this essence, please contact us.
Botanical Info
References for Botanical & Traditional Medicinal uses mentioned generally in text for Platbos Tree Species:
Moll, Eugene and Glen.1989 Struik Pocket Guide Common Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers
Palgrave, Keith Coates 1984 Trees of Southern Africa (Second Revised Edition). Struik Publishers.
Palmer and Pitman. 1961 Trees of South Africa. Published by A A Balkema, Cape Town.
Pienaar, Kristo 1985 Grow South African Plants. Struik Publishers.
Schwegler, Mathia. 2003 Medicinal and Other Uses of Southern Overberg Fynbos Plants. Published by M. Schwegler, Farm Heidehof, Gansbaai
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 1997
Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications
Van Wyk, Ben-Erik, Van Oudtshoorn, Bosch & Gericke, Nigel. 2000 People’s Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
Venter, Fanie & Julye-Ann. 1996 Making the Most of Indigenous Trees. Briza Publications.
