Plant Consciousness; Do Plants Sense, Feel, and Communicate?
Just like the love we receive from our mothers and grandmothers, nature is a life-giving, lovable, and powerful healer. Is this interconnectedness and interdependence born from nature’s pre-engineered biology, or is there a type of plant consciousness? Are they sentient beings, with the ability to sense, feel, fathom, and communicate? The answer to this is more remarkable than you might imagine.
When we wander in the forest, we might be conscious of the abundant life around us. If we allow ourselves the opportunity, we might understand that when we walk among flowers and trees, our bodies, minds, and hearts are healed in some way. As we absorb the luscious beauty around us, somehow, with limited effort, we feel cleansed from head to toe. This is not just a feeling, it’s often a reality.
We see a robust and majestic pine tree, drenched in sunlight and surrounded by wet earth. Thirty feet away we see its equally vital twin in the shade, surrounded by dry soil. Scientists say that it’s not only that the twin tree has roots that will reach to the nearby wet ground for sustenance, it’s also that these two trees share nutrients and messages via an intricate underground network. This is why the tree in the shadows is as healthy as her sunlit neighbor.
“You know what a lima bean does when it’s attacked by spider mites? It releases a volatile chemical that goes out into the world and summons another species of mite that comes in and attacks the spider mite, defending the lima bean. While we have consciousness, toolmaking, and language, plants have biochemistry.” — Michael Pollan
Can Plants Feel Pain?
As far back as the 1980s, researchers like Frank Kühnemann at Germany’s Institute for Applied Physics at Bonn University, have worked to understand how plants communicate. It’s not airy-fairy curiosity that gave birth to this pursuit; it originally began to help farmers understand why their crops soured when stored in local silos or during intercontinental transport to foreign nurseries.
Originally developed by scientists at the Catholic University of Nijmegen in the Netherlands and later improved-upon by The Institute for Applied Physics, a unique acoustic device was built to evaluate plants’Â stress levels by measuring the energies of ethylene gas molecules provoked with lasers.
During harvesting, cultivation, drought, and after exposure to salt, poor ozone quality and cold air, plants emit ethylene gas. While they emit the gas when being eaten, attacked, or cut, they also emit the same levels of ethylene when their fruit is ripe.
That amazing smell after you cut your lawn?
The result of the grass reacting to being cut.
The German acoustic device determines the stress level of the plant by converting the levels of ethylene gas into corresponding sound waves. This helps us understand the levels of “pain” and stress the plants are experiencing.
Acoustics-based research surrounding plants has given farming a boost. More specifically, it’s helped farmers understand that storing apples with other crops can damage the other crops. This research also points to the stress that plants experience during travel, given certain types of plant-based traveling companions.
The results of these experiments and many since have shown us plants can respond and react to their experiences. They can also remember and learn from their experiences and can make adjustments based on what they’ve learned. Plants emit gases and chemicals into the soil around them and send messages through their roots to nearby plants. Suffice it to say that the world of plants is mind-blowing.
“Never go to a doctor whose office plants have died.” — Erma Bombeck
Do Plants Have Feelings?
When hearing that plants react and feel “pain,” your heart might fill with compassion and empathy. You might want to start a new organization aimed at protecting plants from cruelty! Certainly a noble pursuit.
While there are similarities among humans, animals, and plants, it’s important to consider that a plant’s purpose and systems are mostly dissimilar to those of humans and animals. When a human feels pain, they cry. When plants are cut or stored alongside rotting apples, they emit ethylene gas. This doesn’t mean the plant doesn’t feel pain, it means we have a lot to learn about the nature of plants, especially as it relates to the notion of suffering.
It’s probable that plants don’t suffer in the same way humans and animals suffer and plants don’t feel the same way humans and animals feel. It’s certainly a lovely notion that at least one part of the Earth’s ecosystem might be saved from a measure of suffering.
While humans, animals, and plants all have unique systems for connecting and each has a distinct cry for help, plants don’t have the same cortex and therefore, do not think and feel in the same way humans and animals do.
It’s within thinking that emotions arise. And it’s during the expression of emotions that we understand when a creature is in pain. That said, plants clearly have their own thinking and feeling systems, many of which we have yet to understand.
It begs the question, what is a vegan to do? If my cucumber can feel my bite, should I become a Breatharian? For now, vegans should probably continue to eat vegetables, but feel free to be more loving and grateful when you bite into them!
Can Plants Communicate?
Although it started with the exploration of what seemed to be an insane premise — plants, just like humans and animals, can be shy or aggressive, connected or reclusive, and givers, receivers, or both. Upon certain conditions, plants will also warn their neighbors about impending attacks, problems, and the abundance and depletion of nutrients within the plant’s network.
Science seems to agree. According to Velemir Ninkovic, an ecologist at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, “Plants … use signals to avoid competing situations and to prepare for future competition.”
By all accounts, it appears that plants are resourceful, proactive, communal and most certainly communicative.
“God sleeps in the minerals, awakens in plants, walks in animals, and thinks in man.” — Arthur Young
Are Plants Sentient?
According to Kenneth Worth, Ph.D., “Plants produce serotonin, GABA, and melatonin, which act as hormones and neurotransmitters in animal brains, though it’s not yet known what they do in plants. Intriguingly, drugs such as Prozac, Ritalin, and amphetamines can disrupt these “neurotransmitters” in plants.”
Putting all the pieces together, here’s what plants can do:
- Grow with proper nutrition
- Send messages and friend requests
- Sense the need for nutrients in other plants
- Share nutrients with other plants, even as far as 30 meters away
- Send out electric distress signals
- Sense light
- Encourage neighbors to grow in ways that will help save them
- Communicate using gases and chemical secretions in the soil
- Emit measurable sounds
- Send out signals to denote proximity to other plants
- React, Remember & Learn
- Produce Serotonin, GABA & Melatonin, which act like hormones in human beings
Related to the above, if we can give plants even the slightest benefit of the doubt, it must be probable that plants are sentient.
What Do You Feel Around Plants?
While the scientific and hippie ideologies surrounding plants might not always be aligned, what’s most important is what we each feel and sense around plants. Do you talk to your plants? Do you touch them with love? Whether you’re an academic researcher, holistic healer, or magical wizard living in another realm, plants give us oxygen, life, colors, and vibrations, all of which provide measurable benefits.
Plant Research in India and China
In 1962, Dr. T.C. Singh, the head of Botany at an Indian University, concluded that plants exposed to music experienced accelerated growth. He also found that the violin provided the most value in this area. Other scientists over time have concluded that classical music has a profound effect on plants’ health. Dr. Singh also found that barefoot, traditional Indian dancing in the same room as the plants caused them to flower two weeks earlier than previously recorded.
Physicist and Indian plant physiologist Sir Jagadis Chandra Bose, concluded after decades of researching the effects of environments on plants that, like humans, plants are sensitive to noise and nurturance. He also concluded that plants feel pain and understand affection.
In China’s Fujian Province, farmers claim their crop yields increased and grain size significantly improved when using sound systems to play Buddhist chants in and around their fields.
It seems undeniable that plants are sensitive in similar ways to humans and animals. Even with gaps in scientific research, there appears to be consensus around the notion that plants sense, feel, fathom, and communicate.
It’s humbling and exciting to learn about the expansive nature and abilities of plants. It’s also surprising and illuminating to learn about the parallels between plants and human/animal behaviors.
Enjoy and connect with your plants, receive their rich abundance when wandering in the forest, and share your love with all living beings in your life.
About the Author
What Are Starseeds and How to Know If You Are One?
Starseeds are advanced spiritual beings who have incarnated on Earth with the mission of contributing to its evolution and awakening. These beings possess profound knowledge dating back thousands of years and come from various planets and dimensions. In this article, we explore what starseeds are, their characteristics, and how you can identify if you are one of them.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Starseed?
- The Purpose of Starseeds on Earth
- Origins and Lineage of Starseeds
- The Role of the Akashic Records in Understanding Starseeds
- How to Know If You Are a Starseed
- Benefits of Being a Starseed
- Challenges of Being a Starseed
- The Awakening of Starseeds
What Is a Starseed?
Starseeds are souls who have lived many lives on other planets and dimensions before incarnating on Earth. These souls possess advanced spiritual and scientific knowledge and have chosen to come here to assist in the planetary transformation process. It is believed that starseeds are here to raise collective consciousness and guide humanity toward a more harmonious and spiritual future.
Despite their extraterrestrial origin, starseeds may lead ordinary lives on Earth. However, they often experience a sense of not belonging and a deep longing to reconnect with their star home. This connection with the cosmos drives them to seek a greater purpose and to contribute positively to the world around them.
Starseeds can manifest unique abilities and talents that reflect their past lives on other planets. These abilities may include energy healing, telepathy, deep empathy, and strong intuition. These souls are here to share their gifts with humanity and to assist in the process of spiritual evolution.
The Purpose of Starseeds on Earth
Starseeds have come to Earth with the purpose of assisting in its transformation and spiritual awakening. Their mission is to raise collective consciousness and guide humanity toward a state of greater harmony and love. These souls use their knowledge and abilities to inspire positive change and foster a more just and balanced world.
In addition to their collective mission, starseeds also have individual purposes that may vary depending on their talents and previous experiences. Some may be devoted to healing, while others may work in education, social activism, or the arts. Through their actions, they aim to plant seeds of light and love in all aspects of human life, promoting peace and unity.
Starseeds also act as beacons of light, showing alternative paths and helping people reconnect with their true essence. Their presence on Earth is vital for the planet’s awakening and spiritual evolution, and through their dedication and unconditional love, they are helping build a brighter future for all.
Origins and Lineage of Starseeds
Starseeds come from various advanced civilizations and star systems across the universe. Each group has unique characteristics and specific missions on Earth. Below, we describe the origins of some of the most well-known types of starseeds.
- Sirius Starseeds: They come from the planets orbiting Sirius A and Sirius B. These beings brought advanced knowledge and have been responsible for awakening many souls on Earth. It is believed that figures such as Jesus and Mother Mary are descendants of the Sirians.
- Pleiadian Starseeds: They come from the star cluster known as the Seven Sisters. The Pleiadians are known for their deep love and creativity, and they are said to be the guardians of Earth’s records. They exist in a fifth-dimensional frequency and promote harmony and well-being.
- Andromedan Starseeds: Originating from the spiral galaxy of Andromeda, also known as MS31. They are a loving and telepathic race whose mission is to bring peace and love to all races in the universe. The Andromedans are masters of science and maintain a balance between intellect and heart.
- Arcturian Starseeds: They come from Arcturus, the most advanced system in our galaxy. The Arcturians are known to be spiritually advanced beings and are believed to act as guides for souls transitioning between life and death. Their society is a prototype of how humanity should live—based on peace and harmony.
- Orion Starseeds: Natives of Orion are known for their focus on science and knowledge. These beings seek to understand the universe through the mind and reason, promoting scientific and technological advances. The Orions also have a deep connection with the stars and seek to expand their cosmic wisdom.
- Lyran Starseeds: The feline beings from the constellation Lyra are spiritual figures who focus on the development of psychic abilities. Their energy is represented in many ancient cultures, especially in Egypt. The Lyrans bring grace and creativity to humanity, inspiring spiritual growth.
- Vegan Starseeds: They come from the star system Vega and are believed to be the original ancestors of humanity on Earth. The Vegans have a deep connection with nature and spirituality. They contribute knowledge about unity and balance between humanity and the cosmos.
- Maldekian Starseeds: Maldek was a planet in our solar system that was destroyed by internal conflict. The Maldekians who arrived on Earth learned from their mistakes and seek to teach humanity how to avoid self-destruction. They bring lessons on the responsible use of technology and power.
- Lemurian and Atlantean Starseeds: These ancient civilizations on Earth were highly advanced and spiritual. Starseeds from these places have reincarnated to share their lost knowledge. They seek to help restore the balance and wisdom that existed during those times.
The Role of the Akashic Records in Understanding Starseeds
The Akashic Records are an essential source for understanding the origin and mission of starseeds. They function as an energetic library that holds all the experiences, thoughts, and emotions of every soul since the beginning of time. Through these records, a channeler can access information that reveals key aspects of past lives, current purposes, and future spiritual paths.
For starseeds, consulting with an Akashic Records reader can provide detailed information about their previous lives on other planets, their innate abilities, and the spiritual lessons they are meant to share. It also allows them to discover energetic patterns that influence their present life and clarify the deep purpose of their incarnation. This valuable tool facilitates self-knowledge and helps starseeds recognize their role in the collective awakening of humanity.
How to Know If You Are a Starseed
If you have ever felt a deep disconnection from the material world and a strong connection to the cosmos, you might be a starseed. Many starseeds experience a sense of not belonging and a longing to return to their star home. This feeling may manifest as a constant search for purpose and meaning in life.
Starseeds often have highly developed intuition and may possess psychic or spiritual abilities from a young age. They may experience vivid dreams or memories of lives on other planets, as well as a natural affinity for science fiction and the stars. These souls are also frequently drawn to spiritual and philosophical subjects and are in a constant pursuit of expanding their consciousness.
Additionally, starseeds may feel a deep empathy for others and an innate desire to help and heal. This sensitivity can cause them to feel overwhelmed by the emotions of those around them, but it also drives them to find ways to relieve suffering. Their presence often inspires others to awaken and begin their own spiritual journey.
Finally, if you are a starseed, you are likely to feel an inner calling to make a difference in the world. This calling can manifest in many ways—through healing, education, activism, art, or many other paths. Regardless of the path you choose, your goal is always to raise collective consciousness and contribute to the well-being of humanity.
Benefits of Being a Starseed
Being a starseed brings with it numerous benefits that can enrich both the individual’s life and the lives of those around them. These souls possess unique characteristics and abilities that enable them to contribute significantly to the spiritual awakening and evolution of humanity. Below are some of these benefits:
- Spiritual Connection: Starseeds have a deep connection with the divine and the universe. This allows them to access spiritual knowledge and experiences that enrich their own lives and those of others.
- Heightened Empathy: They possess extraordinary sensitivity to the emotions and needs of others. This enables them to offer support and understanding to those around them, fostering harmonious and meaningful relationships.
- Developed Intuition: They have sharp intuition that helps them make wise decisions and perceive hidden truths. This ability allows them to navigate life with greater clarity.
- Clear Purpose: Starseeds often have a strong sense of mission and purpose in life. This provides them with a clear direction and motivates them to work for the well-being of the planet and humanity.
- Psychic Abilities: They may manifest psychic abilities such as telepathy, clairvoyance, and energy healing. These capabilities allow them to help others and facilitate healing processes and spiritual growth.
Challenges of Being a Starseed
Despite the many benefits, being a starseed also comes with certain challenges that can complicate everyday life. The sensitivity and unique experiences of these souls may present difficulties that require constant management and adaptation.
- Feelings of alienation: They often feel disconnected from society and may experience a sense of not belonging. This alienation can lead to loneliness and isolation.
- Extreme sensitivity: Their heightened empathy and sensitivity can cause them to feel overwhelmed by the emotions and energies of others. This may lead to emotional fatigue and stress.
- Emotional challenges: Starseeds face intense emotional challenges due to their deep sense of purpose and mission. This emotional intensity may require careful management and self-care techniques.
- High expectations: Their desire to contribute significantly to the well-being of the planet can lead them to set very high expectations for themselves. This may result in frustration if they are unable to meet their own standards.
- Karmic connections: They may have to resolve complex karmic connections from past lives that affect their current life. This may involve confronting and overcoming old patterns and conflicts.
The Awakening of Starseeds
The awakening of a starseed is a profound and transformative process that can occur at any point in their life. This awakening is often triggered by significant experiences or traumas that lead the individual to question their reality and seek answers beyond the mundane. During this process, starseeds begin to remember their true nature and purpose on Earth.
This awakening can be both a blessing and a challenge, as it involves an intense journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Starseeds may experience expanded consciousness, heightened intuition, and the activation of psychic abilities. This process can be overwhelming at first, but over time, starseeds learn to manage and channel these energies for their own benefit and that of others.
As they progress in their awakening, starseeds begin to connect with other like-minded souls and find their spiritual community. This sense of belonging and support is crucial to their development and helps them fulfill their mission of raising planetary consciousness. The awakening of a starseed is an essential step toward fulfilling their purpose and creating a more loving and conscious world.
