Prairie Plant Spirits

I've noticed that the Purple Cone flower, Echinacea Purpurea graces many urban flower beds. I believe it likes the weather extremes of the central Midwest. As an herbal grower I always preferred the Angustifolia versus the Purpurea. Angustifolia is the wild strain which grows well on open dry prairies, germinates slowly, and outside its native habitat, is best grown in a raised box to control moisture to the root.

For herbal treatment, the purpurea and pallida forms have become acceptable. I am amazed though how we've moved to utilizing the entire plant. In herbal lore, the fresh root was prized as the most potent part. I'm not saying there isn't anything of value in the other parts of the plant, but I do think the use of the top is indicative of a past culture believing that if a little of something is good than a lot is even better.

Beliefs have shifted. With the waking of human consciousness allowing our spirit and soul to speak to us, we will become harmoniously balanced with nature. Once we have become balanced with nature, my belief is that we will simply need the spirit of a plant to keep us in healthful alignment. If this concept interests you, explore Eliot Cowan, author of Plant Spirit Medicine. His work is elegant, beautiful, and co-creative.