Star of Bethlehem (ornithogalum umbellatum)
Synopsis of star of Bethlehem
Star of Bethlehem refers to several plants in the Ornithogalum genus, most notably Ornithogalum umbellatum, a perennial bulbous plant in the lily family (Liliaceae), native to Europe and parts of Asia, and now naturalized in North America. It produces white, star-shaped flowers and is commonly found in gardens or wild fields. While attractive, the plant contains cardiac glycosides, especially convallatoxin-like compounds, which make it toxic if ingested in raw form, particularly in large amounts.
Despite its toxic nature in crude forms, Star of Bethlehem is used in homeopathic medicine and Bach flower therapy—most famously as one of the original five ingredients in Rescue Remedy, a blend designed for emotional trauma and shock. In this context, it is not used as a physical remedy but as a vibrational or energetic medicine, aimed at helping people recover from grief, sudden emotional distress, or psychological trauma.
In herbalism, due to its potential toxicity, Star of Bethlehem is rarely used in mainstream phytotherapy. It may appear in diluted and highly controlled forms in flower essence therapy, where it's used to address spiritual or emotional imbalance.
Historical Use:
The name "Star of Bethlehem" comes from the flower’s striking star-like shape and its traditional association with purity, healing, and divine guidance. It has symbolic use in Christianity, often linked with the Nativity star, and has been used metaphorically to signify hope and healing after loss.
Although there is limited evidence of traditional internal medicinal use due to its cardiac glycoside content, some European folk remedies may have involved the plant in topical poultices or ritual practices, particularly for spiritual cleansing or protective charms. However, these uses were likely symbolic or anecdotal, given the plant's known toxicity.
The most prominent historical and contemporary use is in Bach flower remedies, developed in the 1930s by Dr. Edward Bach, a British physician and homeopath. Star of Bethlehem was classified as the remedy for shock and trauma, intended to help the body and spirit recover from past emotional wounds—be it recent grief, surgery, or long-standing suppressed pain.
Star of Bethlehem is used for these health conditions
Abuse and Trauma (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Anxiety Disorders (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Emotional Sensitivity (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)