Spirituality and Flora

Elements of nature can be powerful tools and can promote spiritual awareness, spiritual growth and they can even have potent healing properties. One of these natural elements is plants or flora. Sometimes, all you have to do is smell a plant to promote a spiritual journey.

This is certainly not a new concept. People have been using all types and varieties of plants to enhance their connection to the universe since the dawn of man. Early shamans and tribespeople used to make poultices and potions for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. Different species of plants were mixed together in a primitive mortar and pestle to create a powerful concoction of herbs and plants for inhalation or ingestion.

Did you know even today most pharmaceuticals are made from natural materials or synthetic materials which mimic a naturally occurring chemical found in a plant? Take penicillin for example. This life saving drug was accidentally discovered on a moldy piece of bread. Whoever would have thought that a type of mold would save so many lives? If anyone doubts that flora has a special place in the spiritual world as well as in the modern health care industry, read on.

The fact that we can simply smell a plant and have a shift in mood and attitude is amazing. The scent of some odorous plants can invigorate and energize you when you are down and they can calm and relieve anxiety during times of stress. Mint leaves, ginger root and citrus zests are especially good for a quick pick me up when energy levels are low. All it takes for a new outlook is a quick sniff. This is why you find these plants in a lot of morning face washes, soaps and toothpaste- because these smells tend to awaken the morning mind to the possibilities of the day to come.

Lavender and sandalwood plants are well known for their soothing and comforting scents. You will find these plants in products designed for bedtime, such as in bath salts, scented candles and lotions. These scents promote relaxation and can help you forget about the troubles of the day. That is pretty impressive, when you think about it.

Sage is another plant which is commonly used as a spiritual tool. This aromatic plant is dehydrated, tied into a bundle and burned as a cleansing ritual. It is a practice which is largely associated with Native Americans and is called “smudging.” Sage is thought to clear the room or space of all negativity and sinister energies. Oftentimes, you will see people burning sage in the four corners of a room to create an atmosphere of positivity and goodness, especially when moving into a new house, apartment or office. Burning sage allows them to start fresh in this space without the history of the room hindering their progress in this new space.