The plant world, as a facet of “All That Is,” is central to many shamanic and tribal traditions. Plants were placed on Earth to be our companions and healers, and when we take the time to honor that sacred role, we heal both ourselves and our planet. Whether you are working with plants to create herbs, flower essences, essential oils or incense, you must first and foremost be in communication with those plants. While plants, in and of themselves, have a great deal of healing and spiritual power, when we take the time to honor and communicate with the plants we want to partake of, those plants grow exponentially in power and force.

So how do you honor and communicate with power plants? It’s not difficult. As Devta Khalsa, healer of many traditions, describes in her upcoming ebook, communicating with plants is really no different than communicating with another person—just more tender. Before you harvest any plant, take some time to sit quietly by the plant. Breathe deeply and center yourself. Then ask the plant for permission to use some of its body. Tell the plant what you would like to use it for. Wait for permission. Whether or not you hear a response, know that the plant’s devas always hear and respond to you. Ask the plant to infuse its body with healing and harmonious power suitable for your purpose.

If you wait silently enough, quieting your mind, you’ll most likely hear a response. Even if you don’t, though, just taking the time to honor and communicate with the plant will make your gathering more powerful and effective. Always thank the plant for its role in your healing and life.

It’s also customary to leave an offering at the base of the plant, so that there is in equal exchange of energy. Sacred tobacco and cornmeal are perfect for this, but you can also use a hair from your head if you didn’t bring any other offering.

Want to know more about how to work with power plants, including how to make your own flower essences, herbs, essential oils and more? Get Devta's ebook, "Energy Healing for Self and Others".