The Spirit of Pedicularis procera

Pedicularis procera

On the 4^th of July, I was in the forest gathering Pedicularis procera.  I made a short video, in which I share my experience of this herb from the physical body standpoint.

Here I want to share the more subtle, spiritual healing energies of this plant, as I experience them. 

There are many species of Pedicularis, and procera is my favorite.  It grows in the forests in the mountains of New Mexico, often among the aspens and wild roses. It stands tall, shows itself and calls to me, even from a distance.  It tends to grow in small communities, and when I sit with them, I feel a sense of acceptance, a belonging.

Pedicularis procera has an amazing quality I’ve not seen in any other plant.  When I draw my hand over the flower bud, there is a cool moist substance that at first feels sticky.  In a matter of seconds it dries and my hand feels incredibly silky soft. I’ve often wondered if one could extract this silkiness into a face cream! This quality speaks to me of beauty.

The scent and taste of this plant have a different quality.  At first I found the scent stinky and the taste somewhat repugnant!  When I experience this herb through these senses however, I feel my crazy monkey-mind energy move from my head down into my belly. I feel more present in my body, grounded and connected to the earth.

Circling back to acceptance… accepting things as they are, accepting myself as I am - the stinky parts and the silky beautiful parts!  Permission to let go of hurts, resentments and self images I’ve been attached to. No need for pretense, just the relief that comes with letting go and being real. There is great freedom in this.

The sense of belonging I feel with this plant comes from this acceptance.  When I can truly ‘belong’ to myself, I can be present with others.

In the chakra system, I see Pedicularis resonating with:

2^nd chakra – releasing emotions

3^rd chakra – releasing effort and stress

4^th chakra – self affinity

7^th chakra – neutrality and the ability to embrace both the dark and the light

The wisdom of this plant…acceptance and forgiveness.

Notes:

All Pedicularis species can take on energies of plants growing near them  If you consider harvesting, be certain no potentially toxic plants are nearby, particularly Hemlock or Senecio.

My intention in sharing my knowledge and personal experience is to ignite your curiosity and encourage you to create your own relationships with these amazing plant spirits.  I am not a medical professional. and make no claims for the medicinal actions of the herbs. Seek guidance from your healthcare professional if needed. 

Have fun connecting with the herbs in this spirit-to-spirit way!

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