Maiden Apple - Momordica charantia 

The medicinal uses of this plant are many.  Its traditional applications include use as a tea for colds, sore throats, fevers, diabetes, high blood pressure, as a deterrent against cancer by checking the growth of the tumor, and as a vermifuge for children.  The fruit was used as an abortifacient and the plant was also used for menstrual problems and for birth control.   It also was used for skin problems and as a purge when taken for many days.  Its young fruits are used as curries in the East.  Nowadays it is a waste ground weed referred to as jumbie pumpkin, old maid plant, or maiden apple. One person I asked about this plant cautioned me to make sure it wasn’t poisonous because she had heard that the red seeds of the plant were poisonous.  You can see how  as we lose our traditional wisdom about plants, rumors that a plant is poisonous creep in.  A patriarchal society like ours is going to want to separate us from the wisdom about this plant because it offers women an internal locus of control about such issues as birth control and female reproductive health.

Maiden Apple, with its clear yellow flowers on vines reminiscent of the squash family, has not suffered from our neglect of its gifts.  It is we who have lost through this turning away.  As it moves forward again  into notice by the human community, what does it want to tell us about its service as a Flower Essence?  “This is a time of reclaiming your inner wisdom and confidence.  I help you to know your glory so fully that you stand immutable to any lesser force.   A time is coming when the powers that be will find themselves choked on the consequences of their own choices.  This patriarchal world order will pass away.  It will be done.  I help you quietly prepare a different vision and a different way to be in the world that is coming to meet you.  I AM this reclaimed inner wisdom that walks softly on the earth.  I AM this reclaimed inner wisdom that supports you to live a life in alignment with your soul’s purpose and destiny.  I help you prepare and be clear.  I AM a radical friend but also one that helps you move peacefully, confidently, and clearly  towards your destiny.”

I AM the full embodiment of my wisdom and purpose.