This is selfheal, a small but potent magical plant that peeps from grass with violet blooms in English summer months. Gardeners often consider it a persistent weed but, as the name suggests, herbalists have traditionally used it to help treat ailments including wounds, heart disease and sore throats. The leaves are said to be antibacterial, astringent, and help reduce blood pressure. Bees also love it as a source of nectar.
In magic and witchcraft, selfheal can be used in spells for a huge variety of purposes, including healing the body, mind and even relationships. Put a sprig on your altar, or use the dried petals in poppets, jar spells, sachets, infusions, and washes. The leaves and flowers are edible.
Rachel Patterson, in her book A Kitchen Witch's World of Magical Herbs and Plants, writes that it's magical properties include: "Releasing, cleansing, spirituality, stress, calming, clarity, protection" and that: "It was said to be collected by Druids and used in magic cleansings to clear a person from being ‘faery struck’."
If you are foraging, never take more than you need and leave plenty for the bees.
Please note: This is not medical advise, it is for information purposes only. Always consult a qualified medical practitioner before taking any herbal remedy or if you are unwell.
Previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2016/09/healing-herbs-periwinkle-flowers-at-kew.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2016/07/flower-magic-and-folklore-enchanters.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2024/07/magic-of-houseplants-for-wellbeing-and.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2025/03/green-london-londons-first-botanical.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2025/05/rounding-year-cow-parsley-or-mother-may.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2016/09/healing-herbs-periwinkle-flowers-at-kew.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2016/07/flower-magic-and-folklore-enchanters.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2024/07/magic-of-houseplants-for-wellbeing-and.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2025/03/green-london-londons-first-botanical.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2025/05/rounding-year-cow-parsley-or-mother-may.html
No comments:
Post a Comment