Interestingly, recent scientific research has shown a link between an increased risk of heart attacks and recent bereavement. Although the reasons for this are multi-factorial, the emotional stress of losing someone is thought to contribute significantly to some heart problems. For some time it has been noted that there is a link between depression and heart failure, although quite what this inter-relationship is, is not yet fully understood.
Nevertheless, we do indeed seem to 'feel' emotions in the region of our hearts and at a more prosaic level we are all familiar with our hearts beating faster at times of anxiety or emotional arousal - that this is due to stimulation by our endocrine system is true, but the link is there.
The belief that the heart was the seat of the emotions is an idea that is long outmoded in orthodox medicine. Since the heart was discovered to be a double-sided pump responsible for the transport of blood around the body the heart has assumed a more mechanistic, albeit indubitably, vital role. However, our iconography of love is still peppered with images of hearts to represent love and of broken hearts when love is lost. Perhaps science is rediscovering this link at a deeper level and taking the association between our emotional and cardiac health beyond symbolism toward a different way of looking at and understanding a number of heart problems in the context of our emotional state.
Medical herbalists use cordials to specifically to support the nervous systems and the heart. They are also helpful for anxiety which can have an effect on the heart causing palpitations. Other cordials include lemon balm(Melissa officinalis) which can be helpful for depression. Borage (Borago officinalis) is another such herb. It has a folk reputation for instilling courage in the heart and is sometimes given for those under stress, who have trying emotional times to deal with.
The subtlety of herbs in this area is quite interesting and useful for a number of conditions, but as always, before treating yourself with herbs, be careful if you have any existing serious conditions, lemon balm should be avoided if you have low thyroid for instance, or are on any other medication - it is always best to consult a professional herbalist first.
This article is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as information to be used for self-treatment. You should always seek advice from a professional healthcare practitioner. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Take care when using wild plants or any 'herbs', that you have the correct species from a reliable source.