Alchemical Perspectives

Paracelsus’ Universe

Is there only one way - the scientific method - to plumb the mysteries of the universe and ourselves? Such a blinkered notion is a relatively modern conceit born largely of complacency bestowed upon us by technology. Yet, that veneer of supercilious surety wears thin for many; some of the more thoughtful among us have scratched through it entirely. Case in point: Because we at Lucky Six Farms lease our White Sage fields from California's Madre Grande Monastery, frequent and fruitful dialogue naturally flows between the two institutions. Keen observations of Paracelsus, the 16th Century father of systematic botany, usually come to highlight such discussions, as several monks and friars are thoroughly conversant with his works. Why should Paracelsus elicit our interest? Perhaps because he was also the founder of spagyrics - little-known as a word today - which was a method by which key alchemical insights could be applied to plant-based therapeutics. I believe even today Paracelsus’ universe is congruent with our own.

The Alchemical Universe

Paracelsus emphasized a three-fold division in every plant species: a gross physical form, an underlying fundamental character, and a universally transformative component. As a convenient short-hand, he termed the first "salt," the second "sulfur," and the third "mercury." (Of course, these strictly spagyric terms-of-art bore no connection to their common, everyday meanings.) The second aspect in particular, i.e. spagyric sulfur, is what provides each species its own highly unique array of practical uses. Thus, it might be seen as analogous to the individual human personality.

Our Universe Of Living Energy

Paracelsus was familiar with White Sage and believed its character to be Jovian, that is highly purifying, mentally energizing, yet physically relaxing. Even today, students of spagyrics recommend White Sage fumigation to cleanse areas where conflicts and arguments have occurred. It is fascinating to note that Paracelsus' opinion is fully congruent with that held by Native American cultures, although no known communication took place between him and representatives of the latter. Clearly, the beneficial power of White Sage has been independently recognized by wisdom-holders of the most diverse backgrounds and traditions. We at Lucky Six Farms are proud to offer it to you in the same spirit of universality!

By Alan Beck

 

Lucky Six Farms' Multitude of Brilliant Suns

What Creates A Symbol?

Can a meaningful symbol be penned by the hand of Nature? The old Doctrine of Signatures isn't referenced much today, indeed few of us are even familiar with the name. Widely known and believed from the earliest days of Imperial Rome until the waning years of the Renaissance, the Doctrine held that a plant's form often symbolized its worldly function. Post-modern science dismisses the whole idea as superstition, yet Paracelsus - one of Nature's closest observers and a founder of experimental medicine - put as much stock in it as the mystic Jakob Bohme. Apparently, this concept ultimately springs from theological roots, specifically from the notion that Divine Intelligence placed plants here with just as much purpose as people. Thus, a plant's shape and color might well embody a key symbol indicative of its unique practical value.

I am certified neither as a scientist nor a saint. Nevertheless, as I take my daily stroll through Lucky Six Farms, I'm forcefully reminded of this ancient notion at virtually every turn. Why? The White Sage itself, whether burgeoning in countless numbers through immense wild-crafted fields or rising solitary from the high-desert soil, first makes its presence known as a perfect, symmetrical whirl of leaflets: a miniature, vegetative sun bursting with blue-green luminance.

Clarity Of Symbol And Meaning

Even a child would be instantly struck by the similarity. The resemblance is clearly delineated. It stands out prominently wherever it appears, even in dense chaparral; many visitors have remarked how it almost appears to be glowing: quite unusual for such a small, low-lying young plant!

White Sage As Symbol

Interestingly enough, Lucky Six Farms' White Sage serves much like a friendly, easily-portable sun. Tirelessly purifying, energizing, invigorating, and ever supporting our own variegated pursuits, the White Sage has earned its reputation for facilitating all positive and wholesome works. For me, our life-giving star has long been accompanied by spirit allies that assist its work: one of the most efficient is the White Sage: it symbolizes a better world for all.