In a משוגע װעלט (meshuge velt = crazy world) where the צאָרעס (tsores = suffering) is everywhere you look and so intense that even שלאָף (shluf = sleep) becomes difficult, consider learning more about פּוסטירניק (pustirnik = motherwort) for a bit of comfort.
The Yiddish “pustirnik” comes from the Russian pustirnik or, of the wasteland; in Poland this plant is known as Serdecznik meaning, of the heart; Ukrainians call her Sobacha kropyva zvychayna which translates to common dog nettle. The Linnean binomial, Leonurus cardiaca, can be interpreted as “lion hearted”, referring to motherwort’s affinity for that organ, especially her ability to calm and protect an anxious heart.
If you find yourself overwhelmed by our human world and your heart needs reassurance that we will eventually learn to nurture each other, motherwort could be the guide you’ve been longing for. I often take just a few droplets before bed if I’m having trouble falling asleep. In times of stress, like getting stuck in traffic or being late to an appointment, the same few droplets have been helpful for restoring a calm state of mind and heart. As with all plant medicine, please check for safety concerns. Some great sources for information on motherwort are listed below:
https://www.herbrally.com/monographs/motherwort
https://commonwealthherbs.com/motherwort-herb-of-the-week/
