Plant spirituality is a popular idea that goes way back. The idea suggests plants possess spiritual qualities, consciousness even, and a form of intelligence that can we can access or communicate with. It’s a perspective often rooted in indigenous or traditional belief systems, where plants are considered sacred and are believed to have a spiritual essence.
Plants In Spiritual Settings
In various cultures around the world, plants have been used since the beginning of time in religious ceremonies, healing rituals, and shamanic practices. Many indigenous communities believe in a deep connection between humans and plants. Plants are considered sentient beings with their own wisdom and healing properties.
Modern ideas on plant spirituality can be found in certain alternative or New Age movements, where practices like plant medicine ceremonies, herbalism, or nature-based spiritual rituals are performed to connect with the spiritual essence of plants. This could include using plant-based substances, meditation, or other methods to create a deeper connection with nature and gain insights from the plant realm.
It’s no wonder and safe to say that plant spirituality is not universally accepted, often seen as subjective and personal in nature and in some cases even taboo. While some find spiritual meaning and connection with plants, others consider them from a more scientific or utilitarian perspective. As with any spiritual or philosophical idea, interpretations, understanding and beliefs about plant spirituality vary widely among believers, non-believers and cultures.
What Are The Best Plants For Healing?
Plants have been used for centuries in various cultures for their medicinal properties which some may consider spiritual. Many plants contain compounds that have therapeutic effects on the human body.
Here are three ways in which plants can contribute to healing:
- Medicinal Properties: Numerous plants produce bioactive compounds with medicinal properties. These compounds have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, or other therapeutic effects. For example:
- Aloe Vera: Is known for its soothing properties and is often used to treat burns, wounds, and skin irritations.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric is used in traditional medicine for various health conditions.
- Herbal Medicine: Herbalism involves the use of plants and plant extracts for medicinal purposes. Many traditional healing systems, like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, rely heavily on herbal remedies. Examples are:
- Echinacea: Boosts the immune system and prevents or reduces the severity of colds and other respiratory infections.
- Chamomile: Has calming properties and is often used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues.
- Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy takes the essential oils extracted from plants to promote physical and psychological well-being. Inhaling the aromas of certain plants has various effects on mood and health. Examples include:
- Lavender: Has a calming and relaxing scent and lavender essential oil is often used to lower stress and promote sleep.
- Peppermint: Used for its invigorating and refreshing aroma, peppermint essential oil can help alleviate headaches and improve mental alertness.
It’s important to note that while plants can have healing properties, using them for medicinal purposes should be done with caution. Sometimes certain plants can have toxic effects or can interact with medications you might be taking.
Awakening Healing With Plants
In regard to plants as a form of healing I’d be remised if I did not mention Ayahuasca. I recently just had an incredibly insightful conversation on the Blossom Your Awesome Podcast about the spiritual components that Ayahuasca offers for healing and how we can have great awakenings with this medicinal plant.
My guest Don. St. John a best-selling author of Healing The Wounds Of Childhood and Culture, psychotherapist of more than 40 years and leader of a Christian Ayahuasca church shares about the powerful spiritual benefits of Ayahuasca.
Listen to it here below –
It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor. Going to an herbalist who is trained in this is the best way to approach taking herbs. You should also know the effectiveness of herbal remedies varies from person to person. Scientific research is still going on to better understand the specific usages and potential benefits of plants and herbs for healing and medicinal use.
