7.09.2010

SACRED DATURA FIND!!!





The Medicinal: Sacred Datura aka "Devil's Weed"

Location: crags and abandoned spaces of the southwest, these were found in Bandalier, NM. You see them often along the highway.

Ethnobotanical Use:

This is a highly toxic, psychotropic plant(chock-full of tropane alkaloids) that has been used for hundreds of years medicinally in ceremony by various indigenous nations living in the southwestern region of what is now the US. For it's immense power that extends into several dimensions, Datura is considered highly sacred and remains revered today...you kinda receive that sense on a vibratory level just from staring into the stunning beauty of both the flower and the jagged, heart-shaped foliage. I've been cautiously instructed that different parts of Datura can be used to bring about a visionary or delirious state of consciousness in order to treat psychosis and other psychological traumas. In much lighter dosages, it can be used as a painkiller (but never use it unless you are with a trained native medicine person!) Also, that big white bloom has been called a moon flower because it blooms primarily at night. I've heard putting it under your pillow can induce a lucid dream state...but again, even touching this guy is a big no-no. Despite its immense beauty, Datura is not a power to be messed with lightly. Improper approach to use of this plant can lead to blindness, paralysis, or even a very unfortunate and painful death! So let your eyes reap all the mysticism you need.

Check out the amazing spiral motion of a Datura bloom preparing to unfurl:




Currently, I am posting from Taos, New Mexico. Been touring NM with the sister and mom for a few days. A couple of days in Santa Fe lie ahead, then taking a train from Albuquerque to Flagstaff where I will be stationed for a month to continue Botanical Illustrations for The Hand That Faces the Sun. Check in for more updates on medicinal plants endemic the southwest, drawings, and other adventurous discoveries among the wise ones native to this area of the world. Thanks for stopping by!

open heartedly,
cameron z.

Post Script,

Check out this sweet Kiva Ladder set up in Bandalier:

1 comment:

  1. We're loving all of your recent artwork, the McKenna quotation, and the Datura pics- what a find! Enjoy your southwestern adventures and we look forward to your future updates, friend.
    Hearts,
    Drew and Cadyn

    ReplyDelete