Story of healing through snake and plants: Aboriginal weed management

This article explores the relationship between healing, weed management and relational ethics in caring for Country. Grounded in Indigenous methodologies, the study incorporates yarning, storytelling, Travels—dreams, and nonhuman relationships, guided by Snake, to reveal the dual nature of weeds as both medicine and poison. It highlights the influence of Grandmother Moon on plant growth and stewardship, weaving spiritual, ecological, and cultural elements into healing practices. Through yarns with Aboriginal knowledge holders and weed managers, the research advocates for a paradigm shift in weed management called Healing on Country. This approach weaves Indigenous and western knowledge systems to nurture sustainable practices that heal both people and Country. By reframing weeds and weaving in relational ethics, this framework invites disciplines like ecology and geography to adopt holistic perspectives. Shifts in governance, policy, education, and funding are needed to support Indigenous-led initiatives and recognise Indigenous knowledge as essential to environmental decision-making.