A weed is defined as a plant growing in a place where it is not wanted. The inference is that weeds are growing where humans don’t want them. But the questions should be asked why is it growing there and what job is it doing? Rarely do we even ask Mother Earth these questions. She would be all ears and answers if we did.
Take the case of Japanese knotweed. It is classified as invasive in the US but is native in Japan, Korea, and China. It is hard to eradicate and can also outcompete desirable plants. But it also is used by herbalists to balance the body and can improve a multitude of issues including Lyme. The plant was brought to the US in the late 1800’s as an ornamental and also for erosion control. It has become the plant version of persona non grata.
Is it possible that the plant came to the West in order to help Westerners balance their physical bodies from modern living stresses if they were aware of its healing properties? Are there places where this plant can be left to offer its gifts that we aren’t aware of but that Mother favors? And in sensitive habitats where it can’t be left to thrive, could this plant be harvested and utilized for the many health benefits it could offer? Many weeds fall into this category. Asking Mother Earth what she wants may elucidate some answers for right action.
