Queer Herbs

To celebrate Pride month, I’ve been highlighting herbs on our Instagram page that are associated with Queerness for our herb of the week. I had so much fun doing so that I decided to go a little deeper into the subject here. The power of plant medicine works on the physical and the spiritual levels, and I love exploring that.  We have so much to learn from the plants and what they symbolize, no matter what the topic may be!

Violet

Violet (Viola odorata) is one of those herbs you need to be specific with identifying for medicinal use as there are many varieties of flowers that share the common name ‘violet’ and what is medicinal and native to your region may be a different species.  A few examples of common names for Violets are Johnny Jump Ups and Heartsease. Even Pansy species are often called violets because of their color. This beautiful bloom has been used throughout history for a wide range of physical ailments, but these days it’s very commonly used for its cooling and moistening properties and its affinity for the lymphatic system thus helping ease lymph congestion.        

The color violet itself has come to be associated with queerness, which ties in so beautifully to the spirit of the plant. Violet teaches us to love unconditionally, to stand in our power, as well to dissolve anger, which are such great qualities to help guide and empower all of us, but perhaps especially those of us in the LGBTQ+ community.

Carnation

Known in TCM as Qu Mai, Carnation (Dianthus caryophillus) is associated with the heart meridian. To this end, its petals are typically prepared as a tea for heart support.  It can also be used topically as an infused oil for skin remedies thanks to its antioxidant properties. Throughout history it has been used to help treat many things including wounds, fevers, and coughs.

The pink varieties are most commonly used for medicinal purposes, but the green carnation is what has become known as a discreet symbol of love between two men. In 1892, Oscar Wilde asked a group of his male friends to wear them to the premier of his play, Lady Windermere’s Fan. Since then, it has been a symbol for those in the know for men who love men. It is also recognized as a symbol of love and devotion in many cultures.

­­­Rose

Rose (Rosa spp.) is probably the most popular flower in the world, its beauty and aroma have inspired and contributed to countless love stories, and tragedies for that matter. Many people may not be aware of its medicinal properties, but its astringency and anti-inflammatory capabilities make it a wonderful herbal ally.  The symbolism of a rose is also very powerful and is universally regarded as a sign of love. If we take a moment to sit with the plant, we may see that the thorns remind us to protect ourselves while the soft yet resilient petals remind us that there is beauty and strength in being vulnerable too. Rose can help us create healthy boundaries while soothing emotional wounds.

In Japan, the rose has become a symbol of men who love men, and the rose has become a symbol for Trans Day of Remembrance (celebrated every year on November 20th) where we honor transgendered people who have lost their lives to hate. This is thanks largely to the work of photographer Kristin Cofer, who did a series of photo shoots celebrating the beauty of the Trans, Queer, and Non-Binary community. You can view some of the art here: The Rose Project (@_the_rose_project_)

Calamus Root

Calamus (Acorus calamus) rhizomes have been used medicinally since ancient times and is also commonly known as “sweet flag” and the “healing plant.” It has been used for a variety of ailments including strengthening memory, muscle relaxation, liver, and kidney support. It is slightly controversial as a study revealed long term high dosage use may have negative side effects. Spiritually it has been used ritually in many cultures and is said to give protection, good fortune, and help in influencing others. It also can symbolize devoted love and remembrance.

The lore of how this plant got its namesake is how this herb has become to have a queer association, plus if you ask me, its flowering part is decidedly phallic. It is named after the tragic Greek myth of Kalamos, the son of a river God (this tracks as Calamus typically resides and thrives by riverbanks and marshes) and his ill-fated love with another man, Karpos. The legend goes that during a swimming competition Karpos drowned, and in his sorrow, Kalamus decided to suffer the same fate and was thus transformed into a water reed, the sounds of which carry his cries when the wind blows. You can find a beautiful telling of the story here: The Reeds Along the River Meander

 *Disclaimer - Nothing written here is meant to be considered medical advice, and is not meant to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure, only to inform. Always consult a medical professional before integrating herbal medicine or any medicine to your health regimen