Larrea Vibrational Medicine - Creosote Bush
Earlier in the spring I gathered flowers to make more flower essence with these beautiful tiny flowers from Larrea tridentata - Creosote Bush, an ubiquitous shrub native to the Mojave Desert where I call home.
Larrea has been used medicinally for ages, I consider this plant to be ancient medicine, Having been carbon dated back to the last ice age (11,700+ years ago). I gathered her
flowers the moment I saw them pop while they were vibrating at their peak after a good down pour.
Larrea flower essence vibrational medicine has been used in aiding of the release of toxicity, facing fears, processing through post traumatic experiences and clearing the internal closets of the stagnancy & the waste we pick up overtime. The more time I’ve spent over the years observing this amazing plant and sitting with her, I’ve picked up different messages from Larrea. Larrea to me speaks STRENGTH, BOUNDARIES, teaching to be RESILIENT, LETTING GO and allowing space for dormancy so we can return with vibrancy. Similar to how she thrives. Establishing boundaries with her roots and dropped leaves that contain a allelopathic compound known as guaiuretic acid, a method of which Larrea protects itself by inhibiting other plants and even self growth helping protect her water source. However, under some Larrea you will find other plants that use the shrubs canopy for shelter from the elements. These plants have a shallow root system are not a competing source of water. Most commonly plants and small shrubs found in Larreas' shelter are various species of Cholla, Prickly Pear, Jojoba, Desert Globemallow, Krameria, Mormon Tea to name a few.
The waxy like leaves contain a resin as well as on her stems that help protect from loss of moisture, locking in water, protection from the harsh sun and also preventing other critters from eating her leaves. Drought tolerant, she can thrive for up to 2 years without water, thriving with just 15% of water. Larrea will selectively drop leaves and stems. The remaining leaves turn to brownish green, not looking very vibrant and Larrea will go into a dormant state in order to conserve energy, re-awakening with a good rain. So, if you find a Larrea that looks dead, give her some water, speak to her of her beauty and give some kind words. Don't take for fire kindling or firewood. The desert re-awakens with rain! Next time you see this beauty, share a cup of water at her roots.
Anyhow, back at the flower essence, I worked with this flower essence during a time after physical trauma. Folks work through trauma in various ways. I worked with various plants and Larrea Flower Essence. Sitting with Larrea for me has been medicine. Watching how Larrea conserves its chi, taught me about self care, "rest and repair". Not self shaming for saying NO, allowing myself self time to heal and take care and go dormant till the next rain.
If you would like to learn more about Larrea tridentata and the many medicinal uses both externally and internally. Join me for my upcoming workshop centered around this desert evergreen, Discovering Creosote Bush, Herbal Infused Oil & Salve Making Workshop, a hands-on event with a plant monograph and a plant tea meditation with Creosote Bush in Joshua Tree on December 16th. Location emailed upon pre-registration and this workshop is almost sold out!
