The spiritual meaning of the spruce differs depending on the culture. Nevertheless, there are typical properties that are attributed to the conifer. Some of them are also related to a specific effect of its essential oils.
What spiritual meaning does the spruce have?
The spiritual meaning of the spruce includes security, balance, protection and hope. In different cultures it symbolizes stability and vitality. The essential oils also have an expectorant and calming effect on the respiratory tract, combining with internal cleansing.
What positive feelings does the spruce bring with it?
The spruce is often associated with afeeling of securityand spiritualbalance. It was called a protective tree in some cultures. To this day, it is common practice in many regions to use spruce trees as Christmas trees or to make Advent wreaths from the branches of the coniferous tree with its pleasant smell. In the dark time of the year, the spruce tree is said to offer people emotional support. The spruce is also often used as a maypole.
What did the ancient Romans expect from the spruce?
In ancient Rome, the spruce was considered asign of hope This symbolic interpretation is probably derived from the external appearance of the plant. After all, this is an evergreen tree that is known for its rapid growth and strong shape. Something of this ancient tradition lives on in the use of spruce branches at funerals. Here too, the spruce is given a spiritual meaning. On the threshold of the afterlife, it forms a symbolic bridge to eternal life.
How widespread is the spruce?
The spruce is found throughout Europe and is the most widespread conifer in GermanyThe wide distribution and growth in different locations have certainly played their part in making this tree popular has conquered a permanent place in the world of symbolic forms. In addition to the Romans and Christians, the Germanic tribes also attached spiritual significance to the tree.
What effect do the essential oils of spruce have?
Some ingredients in spruce have aexpectorant effectandcalm the respiratory tract The plant is sometimes even said to have an antibacterial effect. A tea infused with spruce needles can be effective against colds and some respiratory diseases. Given this physical effect, it is not surprising that the plant is associated with a form of internal cleansing. The he althy ingredients with which the spruce needle achieves its effect are:
- Vitamin C
- essential oils
- he althy tannins
Tip
Use young spruce tips for culinary purposes
The light green fresh shoots can be harvested in May and are also known as Maywipfel or Maywipferl in some regions. They form a good base for an aromatic syrup or for seasoning salads and herb quark. You can also use it to make a pesto that promises a culinary quintessence of the forest.
