Folk Names: Duir, Jove's Nuts, White Oak
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Powers: Fertility, Healing, Health, Luck, Money, Protection
Magical Uses and History: Oak lore fills most pagan traditions, including Greek and Roman traditions, and dates back centuries. Due to its versatile nature Indo-Europeans used the oak for shelter, warmth, and even as an early food source. Later they incorporated the oak into their religious practices, using it as a symbol of fertility, health, luck, and protection. Traditionally, the Druids would not meet unless an oak was present. They also fashioned their religious idols from oak wood (see Oak King).
The oak is a naturally long-lived and strong tree, making it ideal for protection magic. Biding two twigs with red thread to form of an equal-armed cross will protect you from evil. Furthermore, placing acorns in your home's windows will safeguard it from lightning while carrying a piece of oak on your person will protect you from harm as well as bring you good luck.
For healing magic, the oak is burned to "draw off" the illness. Carrying an acorn is also said to ward off illness while catching a falling oak leaf will prevent you from catching cold during winter.
For prosperity, plant an acorn in the dark of the moon to ensure you will receive money in the near future.
Oak can be used in a number of spells including:
Healing Spells
Luck Spells
Prosperity Spells
Protection Spells and Wards
Fertility Spells
Medicinal Uses: When using Oak for herbal remedies, only the bark is used, especially young bark. It is best collected in April and May and must be smooth and free from blemishes. Oak bark is an effective astringent and is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhoids, tonsillitis, and other throat infections. It is primarily used for acute diarrhea in frequent, small doses.
Preparation and Dosage: Internally- For an infusions, put one teaspoon of dark in one cup of water and bring to a boil. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. Can be drunk or gargled with up to 3 times a day. For a tincture, take 1-2 milliliters three times a day.
Thank you for posting this, it's super helpful! Just wanted to let you know that in the pdf you use the word "Dandelion" where I think you meant to put "Oak".
ReplyDeleteThank you for letting me know. I copy and paste for quick editing and sometimes I miss things!
DeleteDoes Gall Oak have different properties as it doesn't produce acorns?
ReplyDeleteGall oak could still be used for protection and healing as it too is a long living tree. However, since it also produces apples you can use its apples the same way you would apples. I wrote a post about apples as well, so check that one out. When it doubt, ask the plant what to use it for. They love to talk and share their knowledge.
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