'Look in the perfume of flowers and of nature for peace of mind and joy of life.' -Wang Wei.

Love bush

One of my childhood friends recently reminded me of the plant 'love bush' spreading by the wayside and on hedges in our hometown due to our traditional rituals.

'Love bush', otherwise known as Dodder cuscuta epithymum, is a leafless parasitic vine that spreads on hedges with sucking roots in wild profusion.

I have vivid memories of walking by the wayside with my school friends collecting love bush pieces, throwing them on the immaculate home-trimmed hedges, calling the name of your fancy and saying, "He loves me! He loves me not!" It was pure fun for us to revisit the patches of plants where we had strewn the love bush and see it spreading profusely all over. This was proof that our 'fancy love' was indeed attracted to us.

Later, our elders discouraged us from doing this traditional love play as this parasitic vine destroyed their plant hedges and shrubs.

Rosemary (rosemarinus officinalis)

"Give me Rosemary for remembrance," said Ophelia in Hamlet.

The leaves are pungent and aromatic. It is noted to have preservative qualities and has long been regarded as a preserver of youth. It became known as the herb of fidelity, love and abiding friendship. It is recommended for hair care particularly in keeping the scalp clean and preventing dandruff. Scalp massages with the diluted oil help to prevent baldness. The tea has been recommended for enhancing memory and concentration and this belief has persisted for centuries. The dosage recommended is one-half teaspoon to a cup of boiling water. Today, scientists have acknowledged its antioxidant properties, and its circulatory activity. The massage oil (which is diluted with a carrier oil) is stimulating and uplifting. Rosemary plays a very important part in our tradition as a protector from evil works.

Ylang Ylang (C. ananga odorata)

I was introduced to this plant as huge trees growing in an area of Duckenfield, St. Thomas. The beautiful yellow flowers have a sweet scent for the perfumery business. I was fortunate to be treated with one for my garden. After six years, it has started blooming these exotic beautiful yellow flowers. I have been enjoying these blooms since October last year.

The oil is an aphrodisiac and is renowned for its restorative powers. It is used in aromatherapy to treat stress, shock, and frustration. Essential oils have different influences on moods. To complement a celebration such as an engagement or wedding, rose and jasmine are excellent. Please consult an aromatherapist if you suffer from hypertension, epilepsy and skin allergies.

Herb baths

This is an ancient custom in the islands, developed on the old sugar plantations. It was either ritualistic for a healing affair with the body as well as with the heart. Uptown practitioners refer to these baths as aromatic baths. The herbs that are used stimulate the mind and the circulatory system adding zest and enhancing the skin. Herbal baths are easy to make and a wonderful experience for you and your valentine. If you do not have the time to collect aromatic herbs, just add a few drops (five to 10 drops) of your favourite essential oil to the hot bath and allow it to be tepid before relaxing in it.

"Smell is a potent wizard that transports us across thousands of miles and all the years that we have lived" - Helen Keller.