Divine Flora: 7 Plants with Spiritual Properties

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For eons, indigenous cultures have tapped into the spiritual and healing properties of plants. These plants, revered as sacred, have been an essential part of spiritual practices, ceremonies, and personal growth pursuits. Delving into the world of spiritual plants can provide insight into oneself, forge connections with the natural world, and potentially unlock heightened states of consciousness. Here are seven such spiritual plants and how to use them to aid your spiritual journey.

1. Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)

Origin: Predominantly found in the regions of Ancient Egypt

Spiritual Use: In the spiritual lexicon of ancient Egypt, the Blue Lotus held a special place due to its sacred symbolism and significant use in rituals. The plant was venerated not just as a natural entity, but also as a symbol of rebirth and the sun, embodying the cyclical nature of life and the cosmos. These radiant blue flowers were depicted extensively in ancient Egyptian art, where they were often showcased in association with scenes of religious rites and divine figures.

Furthermore, the use of Blue Lotus was believed to bestow a state of tranquil and blissful euphoria upon the user, serving as a tool for heightened awareness and deep meditation. The subtle, mind-soothing effects of the plant allowed individuals to connect more profoundly with the spiritual realm, facilitating a sense of inner peace and enlightenment.

How to Use: Engaging with the Blue Lotus for spiritual practices can be done in several ways. The most common method is to steep the dried Blue Lotus flowers to craft a mild, aromatic tea. This tea can be consumed as a soothing drink before meditation or spiritual reflection. The infusion process is straightforward; simply allow the dried flowers to steep in hot water for a period ranging between 5-10 minutes, depending on your preferred strength and flavor intensity.

It is of paramount importance to be well-informed about the dosage that is appropriate and safe for individual consumption. Since reactions to plants can vary from person to person, starting with a small dose and gradually adjusting is advised. Always be aware of potential interactions with medications or health conditions, and consult with knowledgeable sources or professionals for guidance if needed.

2. Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens)

Origin: With its roots deeply embedded in the soils of Central and South America, Palo Santo, or Bursera graveolens, thrives in a habitat rich with cultural and spiritual diversity. This sacred wood, deriving its name from Spanish, translating to “holy wood”, has been cherished and utilized by indigenous communities across the regions for centuries, forming an integral part of their spiritual practices and rituals.

Spiritual Use: In spiritual practices, Palo Santo occupies a distinguished position, renowned for its potent purification and energy-cleansing properties. When burned, this mystical wood releases a sweet, resinous aroma that is not only soothing to the senses but also transformative for the soul. It is believed that the smoke emanating from the Palo Santo wood can cleanse negative energies and spirits from spaces, objects, and individuals, leaving behind an aura of tranquility and sanctity. Its sweet and uplifting fragrance serves as a catalyst for deepening meditation practices, allowing individuals to delve into a state of serene contemplation effortlessly. Moreover, artists, writers, and creative minds have often attested to the wood’s ability to spark creativity and innovative thinking, making it a prized possession for anyone looking to break through creative blockages.

How to Use: Engaging with Palo Santo begins with the simple act of lighting a stick. Carefully ignite one end of the Palo Santo stick and allow the flame to engulf the wood for a few moments. Once it has caught fire, gently blow it out to let the smoldering wood release its signature smoke. As the smoke spirals upwards, waft it around the space you wish to purify and cleanse. The smoke can be directed towards corners of rooms, around objects, or encircling individuals to rid them of negative energy.

For personal use, you can immerse yourself in the smoke, letting it wash over you, absorbing its calming energy and basking in its soothing fragrance. The experience can be likened to receiving a spiritual shower that not only refreshes the mind but also revitalizes the spirit. When the process is completed, place the stick in a safe, fire-proof container, allowing it to extinguish naturally. Always approach the use of Palo Santo with reverence and mindfulness, acknowledging its sacred nature and the ancient wisdom it embodies.

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• Palo Santo Smudging Sticks From Peru Sustainably Harvested  (Etsy)

3. Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea)

Origin: Indigenous to Southeast Asia, the Butterfly Pea Flower is a stunning blue blossom that has spread to various parts of Asia, Africa, and South America, captivating people with its vibrant hue and various uses in culinary and wellness practices.

Spiritual Use: This enchanting flower is deeply embedded in Ayurvedic traditions, where it is esteemed for its soothing and calming properties on the mind and spirit. In spiritual circles, the Butterfly Pea Flower is believed to instill a sense of peace and tranquility, aiding meditation practices and promoting a serene atmosphere conducive to reflection and introspection. Its vibrant blue color is associated with the third eye chakra, which is the center of intuition and spiritual awareness in the body. As such, teas and concoctions made from this flower are often used to enhance intuitive abilities and foster a deeper connection to the spiritual realm. Furthermore, the gradual color-changing property of its extracts, turning from blue to purple with the addition of lemon or lime, symbolizes transformation and adaptability in life, making it a significant plant in spiritual rituals and ceremonies.

How to Use: To harness the spiritual benefits of the Butterfly Pea Flower, start by brewing a calming tea. Take a teaspoon of dried butterfly pea flowers and steep them in hot water for approximately 5-8 minutes. As you watch the water turn a deep shade of blue, allow yourself to enter a meditative state, focusing on clarity of mind and the awakening of your intuitive senses. Some individuals choose to add a few drops of citrus to their tea, observing the color change as a meditative practice on life’s transformative nature. Drinking this tea during your meditation or spiritual practices can help create a peaceful environment, open your third eye, and deepen your spiritual awareness. Always be sure to source your Butterfly Pea Flowers from reliable and ethical suppliers, ensuring the plants are organically grown without the use of harmful pesticides or chemicals.

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4. Cacao (Theobroma cacao)

Origin: Indigenous to the deep tropical regions of Central and South America, cacao has been celebrated for centuries, not only for its delightful taste but also for its spiritual significance. The ancient civilizations of the Aztecs and Mayans revered cacao for its potent energetic properties and incorporated it into various ceremonies and rituals.

Spiritual Use: Cacao occupies a unique and sacred space. It is often referred to as “food of the gods” due to its divine and uplifting qualities. In spiritual circles, cacao is acknowledged as a powerful heart opener, fostering a sense of connection and love to oneself and others. Its subtle stimulating effects gently awaken the mind and spirit, facilitating a deeper, more intimate engagement with spiritual practices, meditative states, and healing processes.

Cacao ceremonies, which have seen a resurgence in recent years, provide participants with an opportunity to open their hearts, engage with their inner selves, and experience the joy and love that life offers. These gatherings often incorporate meditation, sharing, singing, and intention setting, using cacao as a medium to facilitate emotional release and spiritual elevation.

How to Use: To harness the spiritual power of cacao, one typically participates in a cacao ceremony, either guided by an experienced facilitator or conducted privately. In these ceremonies, cacao is consumed in a liquid form, often as a warm, thick, and rich drink prepared with intention and reverence. Begin by selecting high-quality, ethically sourced, raw cacao beans or nibs. Blend the cacao with hot water, a sweetener of your choice, and any additional ingredients that resonate with you, like chili, cinnamon, or vanilla. As you prepare the drink, focus your energy and intention on opening your heart and spirit to the experience ahead. Once prepared, sit in a quiet, comfortable space, sip the cacao slowly, and allow its warmth and energy to fill your body and spirit. Engage with your breath, meditation, or any spiritual practice that calls to you, and allow the cacao to guide you through a journey of self-discovery, love, and joy. Always respect the cacao, your body, and the process, being aware of any contraindications or health considerations that may apply to you.

5. Holy Basil or Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)

Origin: Holy Basil, commonly known as Tulsi, is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, thriving in the tropical climate there. With deep roots in the spiritual and medicinal practices of India, Tulsi has been revered and utilized for thousands of years, holding a sacred status amongst the vast array of plants celebrated in the region.

Spiritual Use: Tulsi occupies a special place in Hindu tradition, revered not merely as a plant but as a manifestation of the divine. In many Hindu households, Tulsi is personified as a goddess, a sacred presence bringing purity, protection, and wellness into the home. Its spiritual significance goes beyond symbolic reverence; Tulsi is believed to be an embodiment of purity that can drive away negative influences and foster a sanctified environment. It's considered a bridge between the earthly and the divine, nurturing a connection between the physical and spiritual realms. The plant's sanctity is celebrated daily in many households through rituals that honor and seek blessings from the living Tulsi plant, creating a harmonious energy that permeates the dwelling.

How to Use: Engaging with Tulsi for spiritual purposes can be a nurturing and transformative practice. One common method is to consume Tulsi as a tea. The leaves can be steeped in hot water, creating a soothing, aromatic beverage that is believed to bring balance and alignment to the body’s chakras, facilitating a harmonious flow of energy. Consuming Tulsi tea daily is not only a practice of physical well-being but also a ritual of self-care and spiritual alignment, calming the mind and nurturing the spirit.

To further harness the spiritual benefits of Tulsi, the plant can be kept in homes, preferably in a clean, designated space or altar. Daily prayers or mindful moments spent near the Tulsi plant can foster a sense of peace, clarity, and spiritual awareness, creating a sacred atmosphere that supports personal growth and enlightenment. Reverence towards the Tulsi plant, acknowledging its sacred nature, is crucial in maintaining a reciprocal, respectful relationship with this divine botanical entity. Whether through consumption or cultivation, engaging with Tulsi can be a deeply spiritual practice, fostering a sense of purity, protection, and sacred connection within one's daily life.

6. Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)

Origin: Mugwort, scientifically known as Artemisia vulgaris, has its origins in the temperate climates of Europe and Asia. With a history deeply entrenched in various cultures, it has spread widely, growing in various regions across the globe due to its resilient nature and adaptability to diverse environments. Over the centuries, this perennial plant has become a mainstay in folk medicine and spiritual practices, enthralling the imaginations of individuals who seek its mystical properties.

Spiritual Use: In the annals of folklore and spiritual practices, Mugwort has been celebrated for its undeniable connection to the dream world and astral realms. The plant has been a tool and ally for those looking to explore the depths of their subconscious and navigate the intricate tapestry of dreams. For seekers and practitioners of lucid dreaming — a state where the dreamer is aware and in control of their dreams — Mugwort is a cherished aid, believed to enhance the clarity and intensity of dreams, making the experience more vivid and memorable.

Beyond lucid dreaming, the plant is also associated with prophetic dreams, serving as a conduit for messages and insights from the spiritual realm. Individuals have used Mugwort to tap into this wellspring of knowledge and foresight, seeking guidance and understanding through their nocturnal visions. Furthermore, it’s revered for its protective qualities, providing a shield against negative energies and ensuring a peaceful, undisturbed rest for those who sleep under its influence.

How to Use: Engaging with Mugwort for spiritual purposes can be approached in several ways. A straightforward method involves creating a sachet of dried Mugwort leaves, placing this sachet under your pillow before sleep. This practice is believed to activate and amplify the dream-enhancing and protective properties of the plant, providing a sanctuary for your mind as you delve into sleep and dreams.

For those looking to incorporate Mugwort into their meditation practices, burning it as incense can create a tranquil and spiritually charged atmosphere. Lightly burn dried Mugwort leaves and allow the smoke to permeate your space, cleansing it of negative energies and creating an environment conducive to deep reflection and astral travel. It’s essential to be mindful of the amount used, as the scent can be strong. Always use it in a well-ventilated space to ensure safety and comfort.

In whichever way you choose to use Mugwort, approach with respect and mindfulness, understanding that engaging with spiritual plants is a sacred practice that requires attention and intention. Always consider consulting with knowledgeable individuals or doing personal research to make sure you use the plant in a way that is safe and appropriate for your health and spiritual needs.

• Anima Mundi Botanical Sacred Smoke with Mugwort, Rose Petals & Calendula Flowers, Heart Chakra Blend