Dogwood is referred to as a ‘whipple-tree’ in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. ‘Dogwood winter’ refers to a cold snap in spring. It has an easy-going energy is an excellent ‘helper’ wood. Associated with certain healing and medicinal properties. Thought to help sooth nerves, assist with anxiety, insomnia cramps. In England, a wash used to be made from the bark to help heal mangy dogs. In Chinese medicine it is said that Dogwood helps preserve life-energy. Steadfast, well-grounded reliable.