What it's All About:
Ever wonder if there's more to natural healing than meets the eye? Join me as we explore the intriguing world of herbalism and alternative medicine! In this episode, we'll be delving into the growing interest in natural approaches to wellness and the potential of using plants to support a healthy lifestyle.
We won't be diving into specifics today, but we'll be sparking curiosity about the philosophy behind herbalism and alternative medicine. We'll discuss the growing desire for natural solutions and the historical roots of using plants for well-being. Whether you're a seasoned pagan interested in a deeper connection to nature or simply someone looking for a more holistic approach to health, this episode is your invitation to explore! So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's unlock the fascinating world of herbalism and alternative medicine!
Songs Featured:
Spirit Guide Background Music by Zdeněk Jeřábek from Pixabay
Dream Symbol Backgroun Music by Trygve Larsen from Pixabay
Links Mentioned:
Poll:
Choose an Old Lughnassahd Episode for August:
Get in Touch Through Social Media:
Spirit Guide of the Week:
Andraste
Dream Symbol: (There are three)
Kangaroo
Kettle
Pain
Transcript:
(05:50)
Welcome to another episode of the Music from the Goddess’ Vault Podcast. I am your host, Midnight Starr. You just heard Wild Mountain Thyme by Damh the Bard. The topic of today’s episode is about herbalism and alternative medicine. Let's begin, but first, I have a few brief announcements. Ready for a classic episode? Head over to the show notes or scan the QR code on the blog or Substack to choose your favorite episode to revisit! Next, You have two questionnaires awaiting your attention! First, I need your help! I'm brainstorming awesome perks for Patreon to reward you for listening to the Music from the Goddess Vault, and I cannot think of anything. Is it why your input is important because you know what kind of content you'd love to access as a patron subscriber. Your ideas will help shape the most exciting rewards possible. Head over to the show notes to answer a quick question and share your thoughts! Second, help shape future content! Are you curious about Spirit Guides or dream symbols? Maybe you have a completely different show topic in mind? The second questionnaire in the show notes is your opportunity to tell me what you'd like to hear more about. You can also share your ideas on social media (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, Mastodon) or on my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com/home. I’m excited to hear your thoughts and keep the conversation going! Love the show and want early access? Subscribe for FREE at musicgoddessvault.substack.com to hear new episodes first. Plus, you can pay $7/month, $70/year, or subscribe for free! Now for the topic herbalism and alternative medicine. A while back, I recently came across a troubling post in a Facebook group. Apparently, some so-called “pagans” are giving out dangerous advice, telling others to ditch their prescription meds because they mess with meditation and spells. Now, that's simply not true! Your medication won't hinder your spiritual practices.
Let's be clear: medication is vital for many, even if you are a witch. These so-call pagans who give this concerning advice, forget that there are many with epilepsy, cancer, MS and more fatal conditions who rely on these meds because these are lifesaver medications! Ditching them for spells or meditation is dangerous advice. While some swear by herbal remedies alone, it's important to remember they might not be a complete solution. Here's the key: traditional medicine can work hand-in-hand with alternative approaches for a more holistic approach to health. But remember, always discuss any supplements or herbs you're taking with your doctor. This way, they can make sure everything interacts safely. Stick around after this beautiful cover of Scarborough Fair, originally by Simon and Garfunkel, performed by Damh the Bard. 'll be talking more about herbalism and alternative medicine.
(13:06)
Herbalism boasts a rich history that stretches back millennia, even before the dawn of written records. It's a testament to the deep connection humans have always shared with the natural world. Across the globe, people relied on plants for medicinal purposes, passing down this valuable knowledge through generations of healers, storytellers, and everyday folks. Interestingly, we're not alone in this practice! All animals instinctively seek out plants for their healing properties. It's a natural behavior based on their inherent knowledge of what might help them feel better. Climate and culture also play a big role in herbal traditions. Plants available in different regions led to unique uses. For example, the Amazonian rainforest boasts a vast array of medicinal plants. Indigenous cultures like the Yanomami have developed rich herbal healing rituals based on their local flora, using everything from copaiba resin for wound healing to ayahuasca for spiritual ceremonies. This is just one example – countless cultures around the world have woven herbal wisdom into their traditions. Established medical systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda have their roots in herbalism. These holistic approaches have thrived for centuries, demonstrating the enduring power of plants in healthcare. The rise of modern science in the 19th century brought a shift. We started isolating the active ingredients in plants, leading to the development of many pharmaceuticals we use today. However, the exploration of herbal remedies continues alongside modern medicine. We've scratched the surface of natural healing! Stick around after Healing Circle Song by Crow Women as we explore more about this fascinating topic which is Alternative Medicine.
(20:31)
I am going back to the Celtic world to talk about the goddess Andraste. She represents battle might, victory, and rulership. Celtic leaders invoked her for bravery, safety, luck, and triumph in battle. Among those who called upon Andraste was Boudica, the Celtic queen, who sought her guidance in a rebellion against Rome in the year 60 CE. It is said that she sacrificed hares in Andraste's honor. The hare is one of her symbols. Her name translated either means “invincible”, “unconquerable”, or “victory”. The Celts envisioned Andraste as a mighty goddess, wielding the power to grant victory in battle. But her power went beyond the battlefield. She was also seen as a protector, ensuring the safety and prosperity of her followers. Protecting her people was another side of Andraste. The wheel, her symbol, reflects this role, embodying the cycles of life and the ever-changing forces of fate. Not only a warrior goddess, she possessed the power to choose the most deserving individual to ascend the throne. And that's despite her having the divine authority to govern a land or its inhabitants. That is it for now. Stay tuned for another spirit guide of the week.
(27:01)
The title of this last song by Kveld is translated to either mean Victory or Triumph. In the last segment, we talked about herbs and plants being used in medicine. Here's a great example: Willow bark contains salicin, a natural pain reliever used for thousands of years in ancient civilizations like Sumeria and Egypt. This discovery eventually led to the development of aspirin, a synthetic drug with similar properties but with less stomach upset. There are many more examples! The birth control pill, for instance, is derived from a compound found in the Barbasco root. Digitalis, used for heart conditions, comes from the foxglove plant. These discoveries highlight the potential of plants in medicine. Even today, traditional medicine systems like acupuncture, herbal remedies, Ayurveda, and Yoga are widely practiced. These holistic approaches offer a different perspective on health and wellness, gaining increasing recognition alongside modern medicine. These days modern medicine is starting to see the value in some traditional practices. But let's be honest, there are still some doctors out there who scoff at alternative medicine. They might call it 'pseudo-science' because it relies heavily on user experiences instead of testing and trials.
Paganism often emphasizes a connection with nature, and for some, that translates to a desire for self-sufficiency. This might lead them to explore herbalism or take up farming. It's important to note, however, that this isn't the case for all pagans. Many of us, myself included, still rely on grocery stores for our food. But even when buying groceries, we can be responsible consumers, being mindful of where our food comes from and how it's produced. Let's get back to some more music. Here's Arcane Roots with their song Roots.
(32:45)
Here's another dream symbol to interpret. Once again there are three: Kangaroo, Kettle, and Pain. Dreaming of a kangaroo is often associated with themes of parental protection.
The sight of a kangaroo hopping in your dream might be a reflection of your tendency to switch between different tasks or interests in your waking life. A dream in which a kangaroo attacks you suggests that your reputation is being scrutinized. Dreaming of a kettle might represent the everyday tasks and routines that keep your life running smoothly. Dreaming of a kettle about to boil over could symbolize that you're feeling overwhelmed by demanding tasks. To dream of a kettle filled with boiling water suggests that significant and demanding tasks are on the horizon. A dream featuring a whistling kettle could be a sing that your emotions have figuratively reached their boiling point. Dreaming that you’re in pain might mean you're being way too critical of yourself, especially for things outside your control.
The act of self-inflicted pain in a dream might symbolize a period of significant strain or challenges in your waking life. And a dream of a sore neck could be a metaphorical message. It might suggest you're feeling anxious about being a burden or causing trouble for others. If you want a dream symbol to interpret and maybe have a dream symbol featured, I will mention the contact information at the end of this show. So keep dreaming.
(43:02)
That was Healing Circle by Spiral Rhythm. Before that, you heard Polly Put the Kettle On by Emerald Rae. Before you go, I've got some news to share with you guys! Want to be the podcast director for a day? Head over to the show notes or scan the QR code on my blog or Substack! This month, I'm letting YOU pick an episode from the archives. New listeners, this is your chance to discover some earlier episodes, and returning listeners, vote for a topic you'd love to hear again. The poll closes in a month, so cast your vote and help shape the future of the show! Do you want to help improve this show? Visit the show notes, my blog, or Substack! Just answer two quick questions to get started: what dream Patreon perks would you like, and what episode ideas do you have? Your feedback will shape the future of this podcast, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts! This season, we’ve delved into some intriguing subjects, but what else piques your interest? Do you have burning questions about dream symbols or spirit guides? Now’s your chance to ask! Visit the show notes, blog, or Substack to share your thoughts. You can also connect with me on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram – let’s chat and keep the conversation going. Want to be the first to hear new episodes? Head over to musicgoddessvault.substack.com and subscribe to my newsletter! Get them delivered straight to your inbox, so you never miss a single spellbinding moment. To keep the good vibes rolling, let's end the episode with a powerful song called Reclaiming by Ginger Ackley. Blessed be.
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