Rudolf Steiner once said the geography of the land reflects the hidden forces that shapes not only the landscape but is also a reflection of the Folk-Souls and thus shapes those born there. Plants for me truly carry the soul of the land, and imbue us with their essence in one way or another. I am intrigued how the plants reflect the spirit of the land. Since I can remember, I have found a safe haven and solace among plants in nature and the mysteries they contain have drawn me to explore them since early childhood.
As an artisan Perfumer, working only with natural aromatics, I am passionate about African herbs and aromatics of which only a few are well known outside their traditional uses, so I set about to source and explore the jewels of the African continent. Join me in a fascinating exploration.
Did you know that the Medical Research Council of SA (a Government sponsored entity) has 24 000 indigenous plant species on their database claiming to have medicinal value? Of these they have extracted a “shortlist” of 4 000 species that they believe have commercial value!
Europe might have a maximum of 2 000 plants drawn from all over the world that are used in “natural products” (as wide as, and including, homeopathic and pharmaceutical remedies, food additives, health foods, cosmetics etc). [Some official reports have this figure as low as 250.]
The wonderful diversity of nature is a constant wonder and delight to me. No matter where we are, there are the jewels of nature waiting to be discovered.
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