It is a widely-held belief that plants can be used as a remedy for a variety of ailments and may contribute to overall wellbeing when used correctly. The concept of plant-based medicine goes back centuries and is considered a form of shamanism. Ancient teachers touted the benefits of various plant species grown in regions all over the world that are beneficial to mind, body, and spirit.
Plant spirit medicine focuses on the healing properties of plants. Practitioners believe that, in certain cases plant medicine can be more effective than man-made pharmaceuticals. As the Western world has begun to shift toward holistic health and alternative therapies, interest in shamanistic this practice has grown. Keep reading to learn more about the history and benefits of plant medicine.
A Brief History of Plant Spirit Medicine
As previously stated, plant spirit medicine has been around since ancient times. Historians believe the practice may have originated as far back as the Stone Age. Before industrialization, humans relied on the land and natural remedies were the go-to for common (and some not-so-common) health issues. Ancient practitioners of shamanistic plant medicine believed that plants held untold power.
Plant spirit medicine was regularly used in healing rituals and spiritual ceremonies, and this practice was conducted with great respect for nature. Shamans and other healers believed that most diseases were the result of being out of sync with nature. Holistic plant and herbal remedies were felt to be the best way to align physical and spiritual health.
As Western medicine advanced, people began to rely more on man-made drugs and there was less focus on plant-derived remedies. However, as people became more aware of the side effects of many synthetic drugs, there has been renewed interest in the natural remedies provided by plant spirit medicine. Plant spirit medicine is more than the health benefits of herbs, flowers, and plants. Those who practice plant spirit medicine in its purest forms understand that it is a way to connect with nature on a spiritual level.
The Basic Tenets of Plant Spirit Medicine
The history of plant spirit medicine is long and complex. However, the overarching principles of plant spirit medicine are comprised of a few simple tenets.
One of the main tenets of plant spirit medicine is respect for living things. Showing love and respect to the plants that heal us increases our awareness and compassion. Research conducted by the Manna Center for Plant Biosciences at Tel Aviv University showed that plants have sensory receptors that can sense our energy and subsequently respond by either thriving or withering away.
Another way to show respect for various herbs and plants used in plant spirit medicine is to take heed of instructions concerning certain species. Many shamans use plant medicine to create prescriptions specific to one’s illness and these ancient recipes must be adhered to.
Some herbs and plants can be harmful if used incorrectly. This means that it is important to respect the art form by not deviating from a plant’s recommended usage. As with any medication, improper use of plants and herbs can have dire consequences ranging from hallucination to death.
Most importantly, plant spirit medicine must be taken seriously. The practice may seem like a panacea, but it can be dangerous in the wrong hands. Take the time to study shamanistic plant medicine and seek assistance from experts before attempting to diagnose and treat yourself or others.
Plant Spirit Medicine Is Needed Now More Than Ever
In the modern world, turbulence and unrest are practically a daily occurrence. As a result, people are looking for ways to improve their mental, spiritual, and physical wellbeing. The practice of plant spirit medicine is one way to employ age-old shamanistic healing techniques to address the various issues that have manifested as illness in a population that is constantly under stress.
The vision of ancient shamans is needed now more than ever, and the need for natural remedies has never been greater. As people gain more knowledge of the powerful practice of plant spirit medicine, the door will be opened to spiritual awakening and the possibility of becoming closer to nature. True mental, spiritual, and physical healing are being sought after by increasing numbers of people. Studying and incorporating plant spirit medicine is one way to accomplish this.