We believe plants carry with them the secret knowledge of those who came before us. While the term Botany may conjure visions of Victorian-era greenhouses and the delicately detailed illustrations from the same period which have become synonymous with the science; its roots run much deeper and in fact can be traced to the beginning of recorded history. Greek philosopher Theophrastus, who first studied with Plato and then became a disciple of Aristotle, is credited with founding botany (or ‘herbalism’, as it was called at the time), but it’s important to note that this is not necessarily where the story of botany began, even though Theophrastus lived to be 83 in a time when most people didn't live past their 33rd birthdays. Originating in India around 5,000 years ago, Ancient Ayurvedic medicine is still used today, utilizing herbal remedies and other practices to encourage physical balance and increase spiritual understanding. More recently, archaeologists have discovered crops of medicinal herbs dating back over 10,000 years, long before the famed philosophers time. Regardless, what remains clear is that our ancestors worked diligently to identify – and later cultivate – all forms of edible, medicinal and poisonous plants, making it one of the oldest branches of science, and the earliest system of medicine known to man. Steeped in lore and legend, herbalism provides a common thread between the beliefs and practices of people from all ages. From the ‘Psychic gardens’ of medieval monasteries containing plants of medical importance purported to aid in the development of ‘second sight’, to the willow bark used to create the aspirin that we still take today, people have long turned to plants not only for food and medicines that alleviated pain and suffering, but also as a means of connecting with the spiritual realm. Even the tiny and gentle ladybug, a frequent guest of these ancient European gardens, was seen as a sign of good fortune and transformation due to the seven distinct spots on their backs; a number which derives much of its meaning from being tied directly to God’s creation of all things. Seven was seen as the number of completeness and perfection (both physical and spiritual). For as long as we have been studying it; the rich visual nature of botany evokes the long-held associations to be drawn between witchcraft, herbalism, and women. It would appear that plants have always been a source of great wonder and enlightenment for us, with our current understanding of nature imbued within them, and recipes for the potions and powders they can create being passed down from generation to generation under lock and key. As our understanding of these plants and their seemingly magical qualities continued to evolve, the science behind their effects also began to emerge. It wasn’t until as recently as 1912 that we began to understand what ‘vitamins’ were or how to extract them, but as soon as this discovery was made (quite by accident, we may add), clinicians worldwide realized that many of the uncomfortable (and sometimes fatal) afflictions of the day were actually just vitamin deficiencies, rather than diseases due to infections, toxins, or curses as previously believed. We are committed to integrating ancient practices with modern science to create tools for elevated living. Even with all of the advances we have made in the scientific fields, most of these plants have yet to share all of their many mysteries with us, and thus join a long tradition in our fascination of the interactions between the natural and supernatural worlds. This ancient art and science illuminates the same path for our ancestors as it does for us today; one that leads to a more holistic approach to the transformation and harmonization of mind, body and spirit. In keeping with this tradition, we believe that our potions carry with them the secret knowledge of those who came before us, and are committed to seamlessly integrating ancient practices with modern science. Ladybug Potions® is a Consciously Crafted range of supplements designed to elevate, awaken, and balance your senses. Using only the finest ingredients available, we create all natural nutritional supplements that nourish the connection between mind, body, and spirit for whole wellness from the inside out.
