The alchemist and philosopher from the 16th century, Parselus , presented in his treatise the doctrine of signatures, the concept that the Creator puts his stamp on plants to indicate their medicinal uses.

Paracelsus' essay was based on the premise that nature itself is a living organism, which should be seen as an expression of "the life of one - the united spirit of life", and that man and the universe are identical in their essential nature.

In this book of nature, Paracelsus observed how the properties of plants so often reflected their appearance - that the seeds of scutellaria/skull-cup, for example, resemble small skulls, and it turns out that they are effective in curing headaches. Similarly, the hollow garlic stalk is similar to the trachea and is used for throat and bronchial problems. In the same way, the willow tree that grows in moist places, often near water sources, will cure rheumatic conditions.

Because of this, Paracelsus stated that the inner nature of plants could be revealed by their outer forms or "signatures". He applied this principle to both food and medicine, commenting that "not in the quantity of food, but in its quality, resides the spirit of life" - a belief familiar to those of us who choose to eat organic food and share the common concern about genetically modified substitutes that lack 'life force', or Breeze. So, according to Paracelsus, the appearance of a plant is the gateway to its spirit or consciousness

Shamans recognize the spiritual powers and qualities of plants in many ways: the colors of the flowers, the perfumes that exhale from them, the shape and morphology of the leaves, where they grow and in what ways, the moods they evoke, and the geographical and cultural breadth, or other mythological landscapes that the plants occupy.

The Doctrine of Signatures Mask is not something that is known among native shamans but they fully understand the principles behind it, that nature has a spirit and communicates with us. These principles are not considered imaginary, but so important that they can save lives.

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In recent years I have discovered how the doctrine of signatures works in Amazonian plants, for example, during my work with a plant called Bobinsana, which I had the privilege of planting in the soil of my garden this year.

My first exposure to this plant happened completely by accident. About five years ago, I met a digital friend online named Silverio Mia, who lived in a small village in the Pucallpa region of Peru. He offered me to purchase fresh seeds of this plant, which he collected in the rain forest near his house. Of course I jumped at the offer, because such seeds are considered rare and usually appear only in the Amazonian jungle regions.

In any case, Bobinsana ( Caliandra angustifolia ) is considered a master plant in the traditions of the Amazon rainforest, especially among indigenous peoples such as the Shipibo-Kunibo , Eshininka and Kokama-Cocamiria . According to their shamanic beliefs and practices, Bobbinsana are believed to have a spirit or consciousness that can interact with humans in various ways

A first reason for my interest in this plant is for the healing and physical transformation aspect: the spirit of Bobbinsna is often experienced as a powerful healer. The plant is believed to have the ability to treat physical ailments and promote general well-being. Traditional healers or shamans may work with Bobinsana in various healing methods to treat conditions such as arthritis, inflammation, allergies, and reproductive problems. I experience the spirit of Bobinsana as generating a physical transformation in that it restores balance and harmony within the body...

The shape and appearance of Bobbinsna also present us with a potential seal to facilitate emotional and spiritual healing.

Bobbinsna is a shrubby tree with delicate fern-like leaves and vibrant pink or reddish flowers. Its feathery leaves are often seen in my eyes as representing the gentle and nourishing nature of the plant. The complex and beautiful flowers are interpreted as a potential reflection of the plant for emotional and spiritual healing.

Beyond the look and shape, I know from my experiment that the plant helps release emotional blockages, traumas and negative energies while promoting a sense of emotional well-being and inner peace. The spirit of Bobbinsna is often associated with me to gentle and nurturing energies, those that provide support in times of emotional distress or a period of transition. 

Another reason is for expanded consciousness and spiritual connection: working with Bobbinsna should improve our awareness and spiritual connections. I believe that the spirit of Bobinsana can open doors to other realms and facilitate communication with higher beings, spirits and ancestors. In this way, Bobinsana is seen as an ally to spiritual exploration, meditation and shamanic journeys, and it also helps individuals deepen their connection to the divine and expand their consciousness.

Calliandra as a source of growth and transformation: Bobinsana's transformative properties are often emphasized by more traditional methods. The plant is seen by many as a catalyst for personal growth, inner transformation and spiritual development. I believe that the spirit of the plant can help people navigate through life transitions, overcome obstacles and embrace change as a positive act. The spirit of Bobinsana provides guidance and support during times of change, helping to align with our true selves and live in harmony with our goals in life.

In addition, the pink or reddish color of Bobbinsna flowers is associated with the center of the heart and matters of the heart in many traditional interpretations. This helps indicate that the plant holds properties related to emotional healing, love, compassion and matters of the heart.

It is important to note that the understanding of the spirit and transformative aspects of Bobbinsna may vary between different indigenous cultures and individual herbalists, growers and practitioners.

Important 2: approach the doctrine of signatures with an open mind and recognize that it is a tool for observation and investigation and not a definitive guide. Interpretations of herbal signatures are often rooted in cultural and traditional beliefs, and must be considered within the specific cultural and spiritual contexts you seek in your herbal path.