What are some of the most important things you would recommend when using plants for spiritual practices?
The three things that come most readily to mind are respect, knowledge, and safety. If you decide to learn the use of herbs for spiritual practices from people of different faiths, it is wise to proceed with reverence. In many cultures, spiritual practices with plants are a sacred component of religion. It is always good to proceed with care, to be cautious and circumspect when learning about new spiritual practices. Learn what the boundaries are that your teachers feel should be honored in order to respect their traditions, and then honor those wishes. Before you grow a plant, learn about what it needs to flourish so that you can provide well for it. Before you pick and use a wild plant, be absolutely certain of the identity of that plant and of what parts are safe to use. If you have any questions or concerns, trust your natural instincts for caution and consult an expert before going any further. This caution is, of course, most important for avoiding contact with, and ingestion of,