The Power of Herbs

The written study of herbs dates back over 5,000 years to the Sumerians, from Mesopotamia, who created clay tablets with lists of hundreds of medicinal plants. The use of Aromatics began over 3500 years BC and were mainly used for religious purposes, perfume, and medicine. The Greek philosopher and naturalist Aristotle, 384–322 BC, researched over 600 plant species and recorded their effects in a list. His own works on this subject were lost, but but two books on plants by his pupil Theophrastus have survived and are still referred to today. In Europe, from the early Middle Ages onwards, the Benedictine monks concentrated on growing and studying the effects of various herbs in their monastery gardens. This subsequently gave rise to the science of medicinal plants, which was gradually passed on to other scholars through the printing press.

The actual term "aromatherapy" first originated in 1937 when French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse invented the word after a burn incident spurred his curiosity about the healing power of essential oils. In this case he was amazed at the healing properties of Lavender oil, which he use on his wounds. It is well known that the smell of essential oils have a powerful effect on mood and the feeling of wellbeing. This is because the part of the brain that processes smells, the limbic system, is the same part that processes memory and emotion and is in direct connection with our sense of smell. In the mucous membrane of the nose are thousands of receptor sites, each fine-tuned to a different type of volatile molecule. When triggered, these receptors activate neurons that send signals to the olfactory cortex of our brain: we perceive a smell, unique and based on the cocktail of aromatics in the air. Almost immediately our limbic system, that central site of connection between sensation, organ function, and memory, layers meaning into the experience by linking it with past associations and building in emotional content. This is the power of the direct link between aromatics and our nervous system.

Soothing medicinal herbs

That many herbs have a calming effect on the body and mind has long been scientifically proven. The best-known ones of this kind include lavender, valerian and St. John's wort. To unfold their calming effect, however, herbs do not necessarily have to be eaten or ingested in some other form. It can be enough to surround oneself with the scent of herbs to evoke their positive effects.

As is already widely known and accepted, there is a variety of herbs that offer a plethora of both physical and psychological benefits. The World Health Organization and other such bodies have recognized the importance of this field and have dedicated a lot of resources to research and catalogue their medicinal effects. As a result, herbs are being used more and more as the basic ingredients for medicines.

"Grace" Wings aroma pillow with an organic satin cotton cover and herbal millet husk inlay

MeroWings’ herbal pillow for relaxation and well-being

Our new organic herbal aroma Wings pillows contain a powerful, special blend of six different herbs that both smell fantastic and have amazing beneficial properties for the body and mind. These are all packed together in a high-quality, snug millet husk inlay. MeroWings’ herbal cushion’s special blend includes Lavender, St. John's wort, thyme, lime blossom, chamomile blossom and peppermint. This harmonious combination of herbs is based on an old home recipe.

MeroWings' herbal millet husk inlay 

The intense scent of lavender was already perceived by the monks as very calming and balancing. That is why it is still common today to place a pillow filled with lavender in one's home. A lavender bath can also have a very healing effect on headaches or burns.

St. John's wort was already known in ancient Greek and Latin writings as one of the best soothing medicinal herbs. The active substances of this medicinal plant promote our inner serenity and have a mood-lifting effect.

Thyme is considered a true miracle cure, especially for inflammations, as it is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. What is still unknown to many, however, is its positive effects on the mind. Thyme is said to have a calming and concentration-enhancing effect.

Lime blossom is often used for colds and fever in the form of tea or a full bath. However, its fragrance also has special relaxing and calming properties.

Chamomile is mainly known as a sleep-inducing herb. Another positive effect of this medicinal plant is that it also has an anxiety-relieving effect and promotes inner balance.

The refreshing effect of peppermint dispels tiredness and fatigue and frees the mind.

MeroWings' new "Relax" Aroma Wings cushion

MeroWings herbal wings cushions are available in two sizes, models "Grace" and the smaller “Relax” version, ideal for on the go or as a travel companion. The scent of these pillows is absolutely heavenly and immediately gives you the feeling of being immersed in an herbal spa. Our herbal cushions are handmade with love in a small production to the highest standards in Germany and are GOTS certified. The outer organic satin cotton covers are also a dream and, like all MeroWings cushions, can easily be removed and machine washable.

We love them and hopefully you will get to experience them too!