Magical and Medicinal Uses of Dill

Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Fire
Powers: Lust, Love, Money, Protection

Magical Uses and History: Sometimes referred to as "the magician's herb," dill has long been used in magic for a variety of purposes, most often protection. Its speculated its protective properties are due to its strong smell. In Ancient Rome, gladiators would sometimes rub dill over their bodies prior to engaging in mortal combat to ensure the user would make it out alive. It was also often added to their food to inspire courage and valor, as well as for protection against bodily harm. During the Medieval period, the saying, "Therewith her Vervain and her Dill, That hindereth witches of their will." became popular, especially among magicians who prescribed it to treat curses and protect against witchcraft. This led to numerous protection spells against witches over the centuries. It is said that drinking a cup of dill water reverses a witch's spell while placing it above the door or windows to prevent evil from entering. It was also placed under cribs to protect children and even carried on a person to prevent harm from befalling the bearer. In Germany, it was hung above the door to prevent envious people from entering your home and therefore bringing negativity and ill will inside with them. In other regions, dill was nailed to a door to trap ill-disposed individuals or negativity inside a dwelling. As such, dill makes an excellent addition to spells not only for protection but also to trap negative energy into a place or object. The Polish commonly used dill to defend against and even vanquish nightmares, further adding to dill's laundry list of protective uses. In addition to the aforementioned uses, you can also add dill to protection spells by anointing candles in dill oil or rolling them in dried dill, adding it to protection sachets, burning it as an incense, or using it in a protection bath tea. The seeds can also be placed in a sachet or pouch and worn over the heart to protect against the Evil Eye or the seeds can be scattered around your home for the same purpose.

Apart from its abundant protective uses, dill is also associated with lust and love. Dill is a mild aphrodisiac and has been used for such purposes since the time of the ancient Egyptians. Ancient Egyptians used dill oil to enhance arousal and sexual desire while later in Germany and Belgium, dill was added to wedding bouquets or affixed to wedding dresses to ensure a loving and happy marriage. However, some brides would combine both mustard and dill seeds not only to ensure a happy marriage but also to ensure the wife's dominance. The seeds were hidden within the bride's dress while she said, "I have you, mustard and dill, Husband, when I speak, you stay still." Honestly, I love this for women because historically they held very little power in society, at least on the surface. On the other hand, the ancient Greeks called dill "Herme's Semen," due to its prolific nature and abundance of seeds, and is therefore deeply associated with fertility and lust. As such, dill leaves and seeds can be used in spells and rituals to attract a lover, induce lust, ensure a happy marriage, or to ensure your spells or actions are fruitful. Bathing in dill oil or water is said to make the bather irresistible, and supposedly can turn platonic love into passion.

Its abundance of seeds also connects dill with wealth and prosperity. Carry dill seeds in your purse, wallet, or cash register to ensure you will always have plenty of money, keep a pouch of dill seeds in your pantry so your family will never go without, or add to any spells and rituals to attract wealth, abundance, and prosperity to your life. Contrary to this belief, European monks believed dill had the opposite effect, reducing fertility and hindering lust. They believed dill's potent smell could drive away incubuses who preyed on sleeping women and prevent them from becoming pregnant with a demon's baby. If you ascribe to such beliefs, add dill to spells to ward off sexual advances or prevent others from being fruitful in their endeavors.

Finally, dill derives its name from the Norse dilla or dylla meaning "lull" or "soothe." This is most commonly attributed to dill's ability to treat cramps, stomach upset, and flatulence, especially among children. Dill is sometimes called the "meetinghouse seed" as it was chewed not only by adults to keep them awake, but by babies and children to prevent them from crying, either from colic or hunger. "Gripe water," which is made from dill seeds, was also commonly given to children or adults suffering from stomach upset to reduce stomach cramps and flatulence and ensure a restful night's sleep. As such, dill can be added to spells to soothe a situation or bring calm and quiet to the home after a major upset.

Dill can be used in a number of spells including:

   Happiness Spells

   Marriage Spells

   Dispelling Negativity

   Protection Magic

   Prosperity and Abundance Magic

Medicinal Uses: While most people use dill leaves and stems in cooking, their seeds are commonly used medicinally. Dill is a natural carminative and antispasmodic, making it great at treating flatulence, cramps, and bloating (and associated colic), especially in children. Dill can also be used to stimulate milk production in lactating persons. The seeds and leaves are also anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory help to ward off infection, reduce arthritis symptoms, and even treat halitosis. Dill is also a natural diuretic so take it with plenty of water.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion, combine 1 cup of boiling water with 1-2 teaspoons of gently crushed dill seeds. Allow the mixture to infuse for 10-15 minutes before enjoying. Alternatively, combine 1-2 teaspoons of freshly chopped dill with 1 cup boiling water and infuse for 20 minutes for the same effect. If treating flatulence, drink this infusion prior to eating. As a tincture, take 1-2 milliliters up to three times a day. To treat halitosis, chew on a few dill seeds.

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Book Review: Living Conjure by Starr Casas

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Earlier this week, I finished Living Conjure: The Practice of Southern Folk Magic by Starr Casas. Casas is a long-time Conjure practitioner, having learned from her family in the mountains of Kentucky. As a Northerner living in the South, I am fascinated by the practices of those outside of the cities, especially those in Appalachia where I live. There is something special about those mountains and the people that live there, and Casas does a great job of giving readers a glimpse into that culture.

Living Conjure is broken into five parts which build on each other. The first 2 parts lay the foundation for conjure and briefly introduce the practices conjurers use every day. Casas then goes on to introduce symbols and signs, tools such as herbs and curios, and finally how to make oils, washes, powders, and candles. It was the final part that I found most interesting because it included the actual "spells" and rituals that you can use in your conjure practice. Part 5 is full of so much useful information, unique perspectives, and practical applications that any occult practitioner can benefit from reading.

I appreciate that Casas has taken the time, despite the naysayers, to preserve this knowledge for future generations. She mentions multiple times that the Elders are dying without passing on their knowledge to others. While Conjure has largely been secretive, the need to preserve the culture outweighs the secrecy. Does this mean Conjure is open to anyone willy-nilly? Absolutely not, but that doesn't mean others can't pick up this book, learn about the culture, and develop a respectful practice of their own. Casas also does an amazing job recognizing the roots of Conjure and how struggle, perseverance, and trauma informed the practice as a whole. You cannot separate Conjure from its past, let alone the history and culture from which it arose and for what purpose. Witchcraft has always been an act of resistance, and Conjure is no different. Lately, I have been extremely frustrated with the occult community for saying things like "keep politics out of witchcraft." Anyone saying shit like this is clearly performative and has absolutely no business practicing or educating others about witchcraft because they haven't learned our history.

While there are many parts of Living Conjure that I enjoyed, I did not like the writing style. This is a personal preference as Casas writes like she speaks. This book is a conversation and I am not always a fan of conversations. It's very likely the rest of you will love the writing style, including the repetition. It just wasn't for me. Furthermore, Casas includes a list of herbs and their uses but doesn't include scientific names. She relies heavily on cultural folk names and if you are unfamiliar with these folk names, it's going to make it difficult for you to figure out which herbs to use for which recipes.

Living Conjure is a very simple introduction to Conjure, scratching just the surface to give those interested in potentially dabbling in Conjure an idea of what to expect. This is not a complete guide and should not be treated as such. Instead, it should be paired with other books such as Doctoring the Devil: Notebooks of an Appalachian Conjure Man by Jake Richards, Mountain Conjure and Southern Rootwork by Orion Foxwood, or New World Witchery by Thomas Hutcheson. Combined, these 5 books will give you an excellent foundation and provide you with everything you need to be truly successful. Living Conjure is available wherever books are sold.

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Magical Properties of Shungite

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A Complete Guide to Jera, the Harvest Rune

If you have been interested in the occult for any amount of time, you have probably heard about runes. The Elder Futhark and Younger Futhark runes are two ancient writing systems that were used by the Norse with each rune representing sounds, words, and ideas. Of the two systems, the Elder Futhark is the oldest (hence the name), dating back to somewhere between the 2nd and 8th century AD while the Younger Futhark was developed later between the 8th and 12th centuries AD. While the origins of the Elder Futhark are largely a mystery, it is believed to have been inspired by earlier Germanic and Celtic runic systems. According to the Hávamál, Odin discovered the runes after he hung from the world tree for nine days and nights while the Ynglinga Saga suggests Freyja taught Odin the runes. While these stories contradict each other, one thing is clear: After learning the runes, Odin passed down his wisdom to humankind.

The Elder Futhark is arranged into three sets of eight runes (called ættir) for a total of 24 runes. Each ætt is connected to a specific deity or concept which influences the meanings of the runes within the set. While many derive the meaning of the Elder Futhark runes from the Rune Poems, there is no poem for the Elder Futhark. It is presumed a poem once existed but has since been lost to time. By 800 CE, the Scandinavians reduced the number of runes to 16 while the Anglo-Saxons increased theirs to allow for new and different sounds to better accommodate their language. In any case, there are three different rune poems, Icelandic, Anglo-Saxon, and Norwegian, which are a recitation of the rune names and their kennings (associations/correspondences). It is believed these poems were used to aid in memorizing the runes and their meanings and acted as a way to easily transmit their lore through generations.

I'm not going to deep dive into the history of the Elder Futhark today as I will save that for a later post, but instead, focus on a single rune. Much like tarot, each rune has a specific meaning, but without all the context clues depicted on the cards. This can make runes a little more difficult to read and interpret without a firm understanding of the myth and culture surrounding the rune. Over the next several months, I will discuss each rune in detail, analyzing their portrayal in the Rune Poems, their cultural significance, modern correspondences, and modern ways to incorporate the runes into your magical practice. To kick off this series is Jera (Year-ah), the harvest rune.

Jera's Portrayal in the Rune Poems

Jera ᛃ is the twelfth rune and the fifth rune in the second ætt. It is composed of two Kenaz runes that are close together yet facing opposite directions representing opposing forces coming together. Jera appears in all three rune poems in very similar ways, suggesting it was used similarly across cultures.

Icelandic Rune Poem                                  Translation:

Ár er gumna góði                                          Ár- Plenty (Harvest)

ok gott sumar                                               Boon to men 

algróinn akr.                                                 and good summer 

annus allvaldr.                                             and thriving crops.

Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem                            Translation:

Ger byÞ gumena hiht, ðonne God læteþ,      Summer is a joy to men, when God,

halig heofones cyning, hrusan syllan           the holy King of Heaven,

beorhte bleda beornum ond ðearfum.         suffers the earth to bring forth shining fruits

                                                                     for rich and poor alike

Norwegian Rune Poem                               Translation:

Ár er gumna góðe                                        Harvest (or Plenty) is a boon to men; 

get ek at örr var Fróðe.                                I say that Frothi was generous.

From each of these three poems, a pattern emerges. First and foremost, Jera ᛃ is referred to as "Plenty" or "Harvest" depending on who translated the poems. This is where Jera gets its modern English name "Harvest" and why it's associated with abundance, fertility, and growth. However, Jera is also referred to as "Summer" in the Anglo-Saxon poem suggesting that Jera may be associated with multiple times of plenty throughout the year, leading others to translate it to "Year." (They do sound the same!) The symbol itself shows opposing forces, suggesting the cyclical nature of life and the eternal dance of the two halves of the year spinning forever on its axis. This lends to its association with beginnings and endings. But who is Frothi?    

According to the poem Grottasongr, Frothi the Wise was a ruler known for the peace during his reign. "...and because Frothi was the most powerful king in all the Northern lands, peace was named after him wherever the Danish tongue is spoken, and all people in the North call it “The Peace of Frothi.” As long as it lasted, no man harmed the other, even though he met the slayer of his father or of his brother, free or bound. At that time there was no thief or robber, so that a gold ring lay untouched for three years by the high road over the Jalangr-Heath." Frothi had a mill known as Grotti which was so large only the giants could turn it. When the mill was used it could produce wealth, peace, and happiness. Seeing Frothi referred to in the Norwegian Rune Poem is no surprise as he was associated with plenty, prosperity, and wealth, the same associations as Jera.

It's important to note that the Anglo-Saxon poem is heavily Christianized, hence the reference to God as the holy King of Heaven. Even so, God is known for his generosity (depending on what part of the Bible you are reading) and prosperity.

Jera's Cultural Significance

The Norse calendar divided the year into two halves: Summer and Winter. Each season lasted for six months and contained a number of celebrations, feasts, and blóts. This two-season calendar is represented by Jera and its two opposing halves. One half represents summer and the other winter, thus symbolizing the never-ending cycle of change and its association with the year as well as balance and harmony as both sides are equal in size.

Ancient Krogsta Runestone, Sweden

Being so far north, the Norse people would have experienced long harsh winters, often in total darkness. This meant bountiful harvests were incredibly important as one bad growing season could result in the death of entire communities. To ensure a plentiful harvest, sacrifices were made to the gods, particularly Freyr the god of fertility, abundance, and agriculture, to honor and thank them as well as petition their continued blessings. Harvests were a central part of Norse culture, making the Jera rune of particular cultural significance. Archeological evidence shows the Jera rune was potentially used in rituals and inscriptions, maybe even spells, to bring about a successful harvest to ensure the community's survival.

Jera's Correspondences

It should be noted that general correspondences are not mentioned in any Nordic text. Instead, these are a best guess based on experiences from both myself and others. In fact, most of these are of modern invention, pulling inspiration from Wicca. As with all correspondence lists, you can add and subtract based on your experiences.

• Upright Meaning: harvest, year, cycles, progress, conclusion, endings and beginnings, abundance, right action, patience, reward, development, productivity, completion
• Reversed Meaning: None
• Letter: J or Y
• Element: Earth
• Zodiac: Taurus, Sagittarius
• Planet: Jupiter
• Animal: eagle, ox
• Colors: brown, light blue, green
• Deities: Freyr, Freyja, Sif, Gefjun
• Plants: rosemary, oak, maple, hawthorn, honeysuckle, cornflower
• Crystals: chrysoprase, carnelian, emerald
  
  

How to Work with the Jera Rune

Incorporating runes into your magical practice can be incredibly rewarding and bring new energies to spells and rituals. But how exactly can you use Jera in your workings?

1. Place Jera on your altar during harvest festivals to ensure abundance.
2. Draw the Jera rune or include it in spells for fertility, abundance, prosperity, and wealth.
3. Place a Jera rune or draw it in a prosperity oil on your pantry door to ensure it is never empty.
4. Use it in spells for balance, self-improvement, or growth.
5. Meditate on the Jera rune for balance and harmony or to facilitate personal transformation.
6. Create an abundance talisman using the Jera rune.
7. If your household is experiencing turmoil, draw the Jera rune around your home to bring harmony and balance back to the space.
8. Wear as jewelry to promote peace, quiet, and harmony or to attract prosperity, wealth, and abundance.
9. Create bind runes to ensure a spell has balance or only brings positive results.
   
   

Jera's Meaning in Rune Spread

What does it mean if Jera appears in a rune spread? Jera holds various meanings depending on its position and relation to other runes in the spread. Jera may symbolize that your efforts are about to come to fruition, that the seeds you planted will soon bear fruit and abundance is on the horizon. But as with all things, don't count your chickens until they hatch. Your continued work is needed to bring your goals to fruition.

Jera could also represent that change is coming, and that you need to be prepared to change and evolve as well. Jera reminds us to adapt to new situations and that all things must come to an end in order for something new to begin. Many of us often fear change, but Jera reminds us that with change comes new abundances and opportunities.

Other times Jera may represent that balance is needed in your life. Its position to other runes or the question you have asked will guide you as to where you need to seek this balance, but know that it is needed and will require effort and perseverance. However, at the end of it all, you will be blessed. Jera is a joyous rune, so no matter its placement, know it is ultimately positive, even if it doesn't feel like it at the time.

Below are some examples of how to interpret Jera when it's next to or near other runes:

• Near Uruz, it could mean strength and perseverance are needed before transformation can occur
• Near Ingwaz, growth and success are on the way; your goals are about to be met
• Next to Dagaz, it may indicate patience is needed, but hope remains
• In proximity to Laguz, it may indicate renewal and hopes being realized
• Near Tiwaz, a fair and just resolution to a problem is on the horizon
• Next to Wunjo, a joyful outcome is coming at the end of a cycle

Jera's Relationships with Other Runes

Jera, while positive, can complement other runes or be opposed by others depending on their placement. Jera compliments both Fehu and Sowilo. Fehu is associated with wealth and material success so when paired together, it shows rewards are just over the horizon and arriving very soon, especially in regard to money. When paired with Sowilo, the rune representing the sun, it shows that your efforts are working and to continue on your pursuits, just as the sun warms and feeds the crops.

On the other hand, both Isa/Isaz and Hagalaz/Haglaz oppose Jera. Isa represents ice, therefore suggesting that any progress you have made is frozen or halting. Action should be taken to ensure success. Hagalaz, which symbolizes hail aka destruction, suggests that the beneficial outcomes purported by Jera are about to be destroyed all altogether or you are going to experience setbacks. Despite these runes opposing Jera, they don't necessarily mean bad things are coming. It could be that the course you originally thought was best, isn't and that while upheaval is coming, it's required for personal growth.

***

Jera invites us to remember that everything in life is fleeting, but through change, we can grow and experience new joys. It is a reminder that growth is a natural part of life and that everything must come to an end eventually. Below you will find a printable, cheat-sheet that includes a summary of all important information that you can incorporate into your Book of Shadows or Grimoire.

Click the image below to download your free cheat sheet for your Book of Shadows or Grimoire.

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Eye of Newt and Toe of Frog: A Guide to the Folk Names of Herbs

“Eye of newt, and toe of frog,

Wool of bat, and tongue of dog,

Adder's fork, and blind-worm's sting,

Lizard's leg, and owlet's wing,—

For a charm of powerful trouble,

Like a hell-broth boil and bubble.

Double, double toil and trouble;

Fire burn, and caldron bubble.”

― William Shakespeare

You're probably familiar with the above quote from the "Song of the Witches" in Shakespeare's play Macbeth. It's one of the most famous witchy quotes and mentions a variety of spooky and somewhat disgusting ingredients being added to a potion the witches are brewing. However, not all is as it appears. In fact, none of the ingredients are actual animal parts, but instead plants. 

Traditionally, plants have gone by many folk names that usually corresponded with their appearance. Many of these names include body parts, while others refer to inanimate objects the plant may resemble. Others still are named after their blooming time or their poisonous nature. Some scholars believe these folk names were to keep the ingredients of potions, brews, and remedies a secret so they couldn't be easily copied by others. However, this may not have been the case. Locals would have known commonly used folk names for plants, as there was no standard naming system in place until Linnaeus introduced binomial nomenclature as a way of classifying organisms in 1753. Either way, many of these folk names have fallen by the wayside, making decoding ancient recipes and spells difficult without a reference. That's where this list comes in handy.

Below is an A to Z list of folk names and their corresponding plant. For each entry, I have included the common and scientific name so you can be sure you are choosing the right ingredient. I have also included a list of body parts commonly used in folk names and what they refer to to guide your understanding. It's worth mentioning that some folk names were used to describe more than one plant as there were regional differences in flora. If you are unsure which to use, I encourage you to do some more digging. Where did the recipe originate from? What is the purpose of the recipe? Cross-reference these with the flora found in the area where the recipe was written and the magical correspondences of the plants being used to see which ones match the recipe's purpose.

I have done my best to provide as comprehensive of a guide as I can. If you stumble across something not on the list, please comment below so I can add it after proper research.

Plant Parts/Body Parts

• Blood- sap or juice
• Eye- the disc of a composite flower or a seed
• Foot- leaf
• Guts- roots, stalks, or tangly bits (this is less commonly used than hair)
• Hair- very stringy roots or sometimes silk or tangly stems
• Head-  lower head or seed head
• Tail- stem
• Tongue- petal or sometimes stigma
• Toes- leaf or bud
• Paw- sometimes bud but usually refers to a leaf
• Privates- seed pod (this sex organs)
• Wing- leaf
• Worm- stringy roots
• Wool- moss (any type)

As you can see, the body parts used correspond with the look of the plant or material being used. Black-Eyed Susans are so named because their black centers look like an eye. Holly leaves are called bat wings because they look like a bat's wing. Our ancestors were very straightforward in their naming of things. Now that you have somewhat of an understanding of the body parts and what they correspond with, lets just into the list of folk names!

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A

• Aaron's Rod- Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) or Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Absinthe- Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
• Adder’s Fork- Adder's Tongue also known as Dog’s Tooth Violet (Erythronium americanum) or Bistort (Polygonum bistorta)
• Adder’s Tongue- Adder's Tongue also known as Dog’s Tooth Violet (Erythronium americanum)
• Adder's Mouth- Chickweed (Stellaria media)
• Alehoof- Ground Ivy (Nepeta heredacea, Glechoma hederacea, Nepeta glechoma)
• Alison- Sweet Alyssum (Alyssum spp.)
• Alligator Pear- Avocado (Persea americans)
• Angel Food- Angelica (Angelica archangelica)
• Angel’s Trumpet- Datura (Datura stramonium, D. metel, D. spp.)
• Archangel- Angelica (Angelica archangelica)
• Ass’s Ear- Colt's Foot/Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) or Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)
• Ass’s Foot/Bull’s Foot- Colt's Foot/Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)
• Asthma Weed/Asthmawort- Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
• Auld Man’s Bells/Old Man’s Bells- Wood Hyacinth (Hyacinthoides hispanica)
  
  

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B 

• Bad Man’s/Devil’s Oatmeal/Porridge- Hemlock (Conium maculatum)
• Bad Man’s/Devil’s Plaything- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Banewort- Belladonna (Atropa belladonna) or Pansy (Viola tricolor)
• Basheen- Allspice (Pimenta officinalis or P. dioica)
• Bat’s Wing- Holly (Ilex aquifolium, I. opaca)
• Bat’s Wool- Moss, unknown what kind
• Bear’s Foot- Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris)
• Bear’s Grape/Bearberry- Uva Ursa (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
• Bear Paw- Ramsons (Allium ursinum) or the root of male fern (Dryopteris felix-mas)
• Bear Weed- Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon glutinosum, E. californicum)
• Beard of a Monk- Chicory (Cichorium intybus)
• Beaver Poison- Hemlock (Conium maculatum)
• Ben/Benjamen- Benzoin (Styrax benzoin)
• Beggar’s Buttons- Burdock (Arctium lappa)
• Beggar’s Lice- Hound’s Tongue (Cynoglossum officinale)
• Beggarweed- Dodder (Cuscuta glomurata, C. europaea)
• Beggary- Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis)
• Besom/Bisom/Basam- Broom (Cytisus scoparius)
• Beth/Beth Root- Trillium (Trillium spp.)
• Birdlime- Mistletoe (Viscum album, Phoradendron leucarpum, P. flavescens)
• Bird’s Eye- Pansy (Viola tricolor) or Speedwell (Veronica officinalis)
• Bird’s Foot-Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
• Bird’s Nest- Carrot (Daucus carota)
• Biscuits- Tormentil (Potentilla erecta, P. tormentilla)
• Bishopwort, Bishop’s Elder – Wood Betony (Stachys betonica, S. officinalis, Betonica officinalis)
• Bitter Grass – Ague Root (Aletris farinosa)
• Bitter Nightshade- Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens- American, Solanum dulcamara- European)
• Black Nightshade- Henbane (Hyosycamus niger)
• Black Root- Ague Root (Aletris farinosa)
• Black Sampson- Echinacea (Echinacea augustifolia)
• Black Snake/Black Snake Root- Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)
• Bladder Fucus- Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus)
• Blanket Lead- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Blazing Star – Ague Root (Aletris farinosa)
• Blessed Herb- Pimpernel (Pimpinella saxifraga)
• Blind Bluff- Poppy (Papaver spp.)
• Blind Eyes- Poppy (Papaver spp.)
• Blind Worm's Sting- Knotweed (Polygonum spp.)
• Blood- Dragon's Blood (Daemonorops draco, D. propinquos) or sap of Elder (Sambucus canadensis)
• Blood of a Goose – Sap from Mulberry (Morus nigra, Morus rubra)
• Blood of an Eye – Tamarisk (Tamaris spp.)
• Blood of Ares- Purselane (Portulaca oleracea, P. salvia)
• Blood of Hephaestus- Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
• Blood of Hestia- Chamomile (Chameamelum mobile, Anthemis nobilis)
• Bloodroot- Tormentil (Potentilla erecta, P. tormentilla)
• Bloody Butcher- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
• Bloody Fingers- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Blooming Sally- Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)
• Blue Bottle – Bachelor's Buttons (Centaurea cyanus)
• Blue Buttons- Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
• Blue Eyes- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
• Bonewort- Pansy (Viola tricolor)
• Bottle Brush- Horsetail (Equisetum spp.)
• Boy’s Love/Lad’s Love- Southernwood (Artemisia abrotanum)
• Brain Thief- Mandrake (Atropa mandragora, Mandragora officinale)
• Bruisewort- Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) or Daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, Bellis perenis)
• Bramble/Bramble Kite- Blackberry (Rubus villosus)
• Bread and Cheese- Hawthorn (Crataegus oxacantha)
• Bride of the Meadow- Meadowsweet (Spiaea filipendula, Dilipendula ulmaria, Spiraea ulmaris)
• Bride of Sun- Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
• Bridewort- Meadowsweet (Spiaea filipendula, Dilipendula ulmaria, Spiraea ulmaris)
• Broom- Gorse (Ulex europeaus) or Broom (Cytisus scoparius)
• Bull’s Blood – Beet (Beta vulgaris) or Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)
• Buffalo Herb- Alfalfa (Medicago saliva)
• Burn Plant- Aloe (Aloe vera)
• Buttons- Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

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C

• Calf’s Snout- Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)
• Candlewick- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Cape Gum- Acacia (Acacia senegal)
• Capon’s Tail- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
• Carpenter’s Square- Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa, S. marilandica)
• Carpenter’s Weed- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Cat/Catmint/Catnep/Catrup/Cat's Wort- Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
• Cat’s Foot- Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), Ground Ivy (Nepeta heredacea, Glechoma hederacea, Nepeta glechoma)
• Cat’s Herb- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
• Chameleon Star- Bromeliad (Crypanthus spp.)
• Cherry Pie- Heliotrope (Heliotropium europaeum, H. arborescens)
• Chewing John- Galangal (Alpina officinalum, A. galanga)
• Christmas Rose- Black Hellebore (Helleborus niger)
• Christ’s Ladder- Centaury (Erythraea centaurium, Centaurium spp.)
• Christ’s Spear – Adder’s Tongue Adder's Tongue also known as Dog’s Tooth Violet (Erythronium americanum)
• Christ's Thorn- Holly (Ilex aquifolium, I. opaca)
• Church Steeple – Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)
• Cleavers – Bedstraw (Galium verum, G. triflorum)
• Clot- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Clove Root- Avens (Geum urbanum)
• Cocklebur – Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)
• Cock’s comb – Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondiacus)
• Colewort- Avens (Geum urbanum)
• Colt’s Tail- Fleabane (Inula dysenterica, Corydalis spp.)
• Compas Point- Pilot Weed (Silphium laciniatum)
• Compass Weed- Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
• Cow's Grass/Cowgrass- Knotweed (Polygonum aviculare)
• Crane’s Bill- Geranium (Pelargonium maculatum, P. odoratissimum)
• Crosswort- Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)
• Crow’s Foot- Geranium (Pelargonium maculatum, P. odoratissimum)
• Crown of Thorns- Euphorbia (Euphorbia spp.)
• Cuckoo’s Bread- Plantain (Plantago spp.)
• Cuckowe's Meat- Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella)
• Cucumber Tree- Magnolia (Magnolia spp.)
• Cuddy’s Lungs- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Crown for a King- Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)Cupid's Car- Wolf's Bane (Aconitum napellus, Arnica latifolia, Arnica montana)

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D

• Dagger flower- Blue Flag (Iris versicolor)
• Daphne – Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)
• Deadly Nightshade- Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
• Dead Man’s Bells- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Death Angel – Agaric (Amanita muscaria)
• Death Cap – Agaric (Amanita muscaria)
• Death Flower- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Death’s Herb – Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
• Deer's Tongue- Deerstongue (Liatris odoratissima, Frasera speciosa)
• Delight of the Eye- Rowan (Sorbus acuparia)
• Devil’s Apple- Datura (Datura stramonium, D. metel, D. spp.) or Mandrake (Atropa mandragora, Mandragora officinale)
• Devil's Bit- Devil's Bit (Scabiosa succisa)
• Devil’s Cherries- Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
• Devil's Dung- Asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida, F. foetida, F. rurbicaulis)
• Devil’s Eye- Elder (Sambucus canadensis) or Henbane (Hyosycamus niger) or Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
• Devil’s Flower – Bachelor's Buttons (Centaurea cyanus)
• Devil’s Fuge- Mistletoe (Viscum album, Phoradendron leucarpum, P. flavescens)
• Devil’s Guts- Dodder (Cuscuta glomurata, C. europaea)
• Devil’s Herb – Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
• Devil’s Milk- Celandine (Chelidonium majus)
• Devil’s Nettle- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Devil's Oatmeal- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum, P. sativum)
• Devil’s Plaything- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Devil’s Shoestring- Goat's Rue (Vibumum alnifolium)
• Dew of the Sea/Sea Dew- Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
• Dog Bane- Oleander (Nerium oleander)
• Doggies- Toadflax (Linatia vulgaris)
• Dog's Fingers- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Dog Standard- Ragwort (Senecio vulgaris, S. jacobaea)
• Dog’s Tongue- Hound’s Tongue (Cynoglossum officinale)
• Dragonwort- Bistort (Polygonum bistorta)
• Dragon’s Blood- Dragon's Blood (Daemonorops draco, D. propinquos) or Calamus (Acorus calamus)
• Drunkard- Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
• Dumbledore's Delight- Wolf's Bane (Aconitum napellus, Arnica latifolia, Arnica montana)

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E

• Earth Bark- Tormentil (Potentilla erecta, P. tormentilla)
• Earth Smoke- Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis)
• Earth Star- Bromeliad (Crypanthus spp.)
• Egyptian Thorn- Acacia (Acacia senegal)
• Elf Leaf- Lavender (Lavendula officinale) or Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
• Elf’s Wort/Elfwort- Elecampane (Inula helenium)
• Elven- Elm (Ulmus campestris)
• Enchanter’s Plant- Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
• Englishman’s Foot- Plantain (Plantago spp.)
• English Serpentary- Bistort (Polygonum bistorta)
• Even of the Star- Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)
• Eyes/Eye of Day- Daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, Bellis perenis)
• Eye Balm- Golden Seal (Hydrastis canadensis)
• Eye of Newt- Mustard Seed (Brassica nigra)
• Eye Root- Golden Seal (Hydrastis canadensis)

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F

• Fair Lady- Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
• Fairy Bell- Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella)
• Fairy Cup- Cowslip (Primula veris)
• Fairy Fingers/Petticoats/Thimbles- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Fairy Horses- Ragwort (Senecio vulgaris, S. jacobaea)
• Felon Herb- Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
• Felonwort- Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens- American, Solanum dulcamara- European)
• Feverwort- Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) or Centaury (Erythraea centaurium, Centaurium spp.)
• Five Fingers/Five Finger Blossom/Grass- Cinquefoil (Potentilla canadensis, P. erecta, P. reptans) or Tormentil (Potentilla erecta, P. tormentilla)
• Flesh and Blood- Tormentil (Potentilla erecta, P. tormentilla)
• Flute Plant- Meadow Rue (Thalictrum spp.)
• Flukes- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
• Foal's Foot- Colt's Foot/Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)
• Folk's Gloves- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Fox Bells- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Fox’s Clote- Burdock (Arctium lappa)
• Frog's Foot- Bulbous Buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus)
• From the Foot- Houseleek (Sempervivum tectorum)
• From the Loins- Chamomile (Chameamelum mobile, Anthemis nobilis)
• Fruit of the Gods- Apple (Pyrus spp.)
• Fruit of the Underworld- Apple (Pyrus spp.) or Pomegranate (Punica granatum)

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G

• Gagroot- Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
• Gallows- Mandrake (Atropa mandragora, Mandragora officinale)
• Ghost Flower- Datura (Datura stramonium, D. metel, D. spp.)
• Gillies/Gilliflower- Carnation (Dianthus carophyllus)
• Giver of Life- Corn (Zea mays)
• Gladdon- Calamus (Acorus calamus)
• Goat’s Foot- Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.)
• Goat’s Horn- Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
• Goat's Leaf- Honeysuckle (Lonicera caprifolium, L. japonica)
• Goatweed- St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
• Golden/Goldy Star – Avens (Geum urbanum)
• Golden Bough- Mistletoe (Viscum album, Phoradendron leucarpum, P. flavescens)
• Gout Root- Briony (Bryony spp.)
• Grave Root- Meadowsweet (Spiaea filipendula, Dilipendula ulmaria, Spiraea ulmaris)
• Graveyard Dust- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Greek Nuts- Almond (Prunus communic or P. dulcis)
• Ground Apple- Chamomile (Chameamelum mobile, Anthemis nobilis)
• Groundbread- Cyclamen (Cyclamen spp.)

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H

• Hair of Venus- Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum pedatim)
• Hag's Tapers- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Hagthorn- Hawthorn (Crataegus oxacantha)
• Hare’s Beard- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Harebell- Bluebell (Campanula rotundifolia)
• Hare Foot- Avens (Geum urbanum)
• Hart's Thorn- Buckthron (Rhamnus catharticus, R. frangula, R. spp.)
• Hawk’s Heart- Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
• Hay Maids/Hedge Maids- Ground Ivy (Nepeta heredacea, Glechoma hederacea, Nepeta glechoma)
• Heart Leaf- Liverwort (Hepatica nobilis, Anemone hepatic, Peltigera canina)
• Heart's Ease- Pansy (Viola tricolor)
• Hedge Taper- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Hellweed- Dodder (Cuscuta glomurata, C. europaea)
• Helmet Weed- Scullcap (Scutellatia lateriflora, S. galericulata)
• Hen and Chickens- Houseleek (Sempervivum tectorum)
• Herb Bennet- Avens (Geum urbanum)
• Herb of Circe- Mandrake (Atropa mandragora, Mandragora officinale)
• Herb of Enchantment- Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
• Herb of Gladness- Borage (Borago officinalis)
• Herb of Grace- Rue (Ruta graveolens) or Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
• Herb of Mary- Pimpernel (Pimpinella saxifraga)
• Herb of the Cross- Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
• High John the Conqueror/John/Jack- High John the Conqueror (Ipomoea purga, I. jalapa)
• Holy Herb- Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
• Holy Tree- Holly (Ilex aquifolium, I. opaca)
• Honey- Clover (Trifolium spp.)
• Hoodweed- Scullcap (Scutellatia lateriflora, S. galericulata)
• Horse Tongue- Hart's Tongue Fern (Asplenium scolopendrium)
• Hound's Tongue- Hound’s Tongue (Cynoglossum officinale) or Deerstongue (Liatris odoratissima, Frasera speciosa)
• Husband's Dial/Husbandman's Dial- Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
• Hundred Eyes- Periwinkle (Vinca minor)

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I

• Innocence- Innocence (Houstonia procumbens)

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J

• Jacob's Ladder- Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)
• Jacob’s Staff- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Johnny Jumper/Johnny Jump-Ups- Pansy (Viola tricolor)
• Jove's Flower- Carnation (Dianthus carophyllus)
• Joy of the Mountain- Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
• Juno's Tears- Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
• Jupiter's Bean- Henbane (Hyosycamus niger)
• Jupiter’s Staff- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)

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K

• Kenning Wort- Celandine (Chelidonium majus)
• Key Flower/Key of Heaven/Lady's Key- Cowslip (Primula veris)
• King's Spur- Larkspur (Delphinium spp.)
• Knight’s Milfoil- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Kronos’ Blood- Sap of Cedar (Cedrus libani or C. spp.)

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L

• Ladder to Heaven- Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)
• Lady of the Wood- Birch (Betula pendula, B. pubescens, B. lenta, B. alba)
• Lady's Lace- Dodder (Cuscuta glomurata, C. europaea)
• Ladies' Meat- Hawthorn (Crataegus oxacantha)
• Ladies' Seal- Briony (Bryony spp.) or Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum officianle, P. multiflorum biflorum)
• Lamb’s Ears- Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
• Lapstones- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
• Leather Jackets- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
• Leopard's Bane- Wolf's Bane (Aconitum napellus, Arnica latifolia, Arnica montana)
• Lion's Foot- Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris)
• Lion's Herb- Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis, A. vulgaris)
• Lion's Mouth- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Lion’s Tooth- Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
• Little Queen- Meadowsweet (Spiaea filipendula, Dilipendula ulmaria, Spiraea ulmaris)
• Little Stepmother- Pansy (Viola tricolor)
• Lizard's leg- Ivy (Nepeta heredacea, Glechoma hederacea, Nepeta glechoma)
• Love Apples- Tomato (Lycopersicon spp.)
• Love in Idleness/Love Idol/Loving Idol- Pansy (Viola tricolor)
• Love Lies Bleeding- Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondiacus) or Pansy (Viola tricolor)
• Love Leaves- Burdock (Arctium lappa)
• Love Parsley- Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
• Love Rod- Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
• Love Root- Lovage (Levisticum officinale) or Orris Root (Iris germanica var. florentina)
• Love Will- Datura (Datura stramonium, D. metel, D. spp.)
• Love Vine- Dodder (Cuscuta glomurata, C. europaea)
• Low John the Conqueror- Galangal (Alpina officinalum, A. galanga)
• Lucky Nut- Be-Still (Thevetia peruviana, t. nereifolia)
• Lurk-In-The-Ditch- Pennyroal (Mentha pulegium)
• Lycopod- Club Moss (Lycopodium calvatum)

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M

• Mad Apple- Datura (Datura stramonium, D. metel, D. spp.)
• Madder's Cousin- Bedstraw (Galium verum, G. triflorum)
• Mad Root- Briony (Bryony spp.)
• Madwort- Sweet Alyssum (Alyssum spp.) or Datura (Datura stramonium, D. metel, D. spp.) or Scullcap (Scutellatia lateriflora, S. galericulata) or Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
• Maiden’s Ruin- Southernwood (Artemisia abrotanum)
• Male Lily- Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)
• Male Shield- Male Fern (Dryopterisfelix-mas)
• Man’s Bile- Turnip Juice (Brassica rapa)
• Man’s Health- Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
• Master of the Woods- Woodruff (Asperula odorata, Galium odoratum)
• Masterwort- Angelica (Angelica archangelica)
• May Lily- Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)
• Maypops- Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata)
• Meadow- Anemone (Anemone pulsatilla)
• Melissa- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
• Mother of Herbs- Rue (Ruta graveolens)
• Mother of the Wood- Sloe (Prunus spinosa)
• Money Plant- Honesty (Lunaria spp.)
• Moonlight on the Grove- Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)
• Murphies- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
• Mutton Chops- Goosegrass (Eleusine spp.)

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N

• Narcissus- Daffodil (Narcissus spp.)
• Nard- Lavender (Lavendula officinale)
• Naught Man- Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
• Naughty Man's Cherries- Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
• Nine Hooks- Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris)
• Nine Joints- Knotweed (Polygonum aviculare)
• No Eyes- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
• Nose Bleed- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Nurse Heal- Elecampane (Inula helenium)

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O

• Old Lady/Old Gal/Old Woman- Elder (Sambucus canadensis) or Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
• Old Man- Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) or Southernwood (Artemisia abrotanum)
• Old Man’s Flannel- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Old Man’s Pepper- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Old Uncle Henry- Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
• Organ Broth/Tea- Pennyroal (Mentha pulegium)
• Our Lady's Glove- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Our Lady's Tears- Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)
• Owelet's Wing- Garlic (Allium sativum)

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P

• Paddock Pipes- Horsetail (Equisetum spp.)
• Password- Primrose (Primula vulgaris)
• Patterns and Cogs- Toadflax (Linatia vulgaris)
• Pentagram Flowers/Plant- Wax Plant (Hoya camosa)
• Personata- Burdock (Arctium lappa)
• Peter’s Staff- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Pigeon's Grass/Pigeonwood- Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
• Pinks- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
• Piss-a-Bed- Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
• Pole Cat- Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus)
• Poor Man's Meat- Bean (Phaseolus spp.)
• Poor Man’s Treacle- Garlic (Allium sativum)
• Princess Feather- Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondiacus)
• Priest’s Crown- Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
• Pukeweed- Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
• Purple Medic- Alfalfa (Medicago saliva)

 

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Q

• Quaker Bonnet- Scullcap (Scutellatia lateriflora, S. galericulata)
• Queen Elizabeth Root- Orris Root (Iris germanica var. florentina)
• Quick- Hawthorn (Crataegus oxacantha)
• Quickbane- Rowan (Sorbus acuparia)

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R

• Rabbits- Toadflax (Linatia vulgaris)
• Rats and Mice- Hound’s Tongue (Cynoglossum officinale)
• Ram’s horn- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
• Red Robin- Knotweed (Polygonum aviculare)
• Ring-a-Bell- Bluebell (Campanula rotundifolia)
• Rocks- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
• Runaway Robin- Ground Ivy (Nepeta heredacea, Glechoma hederacea, Nepeta glechoma)

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S

• Sacred Mother- Corn (Zea mays)
• Scabwort- Elecampane (Inula helenium)
• Scaldhead- Blackberry (Rubus villosus)
• Seed of Horns- Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)
• Semen of Ammon- Houseleek (Sempervivum tectorum)
• Semen of Ares- Clover (Trifolium spp.)
• Semen of Hephaistos- Fleabane (Inula dysenterica, Corydalis spp.)
• Serpent's Tongue- Adder's Tongue also known as Dog’s Tooth Violet (Erythronium americanum)
• Seven Barks- Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens)
• Seven Year’s Love- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Sheep Lice- Hound’s Tongue (Cynoglossum officinale)
• Silver Bough- Apple (Pyrus spp.)
• Silver Dollar- Honesty (Lunaria spp.)
• Silver Leaf- Stillengia (Stillingia sylvatica)
• Sleep Herb/Sleepwort- Lettuce (Lactuca salvia)
• Snake Bite- Plantain (Plantago spp.)
• Snake Grape- Briony (Bryony spp.)
• Snake's Friend- Indian Paint Brush (Castilleja spp.)
• Snake's Matches- Indian Paint Brush (Castilleja spp.)
• Snake Root- Snakeroot (Aristolochia serpentaria)
• Snakeweed- Bistort (Polygonum bistorta) or Plantain (Plantago spp.) or Snakeroot (Aristolochia serpentaria)
• Soapwort- Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) or Soapwort (Saponaria spp.)
• Solider's Tea- Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)
• Sops-In-Wine- Carnation (Dianthus carophyllus)
• Sorcerer's Berries- Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
• Sorcerer's Herb- Datura (Datura stramonium, D. metel, D. spp.)
• Sorcerer's Root- Mandrake (Atropa mandragora, Mandragora officinale)
• Sorcerer’s Violet- Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
• Sow Bread/Swine Bread- Cyclamen (Cyclamen spp.)
• Sparrow’s Tongue- Knotweed (Polygonum aviculare)
• Spike- Lavender (Lavendula officinale)
• St. Jame's Wort- Ragwort (Senecio vulgaris, S. jacobaea)
• St. John’s Plant- Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
• Star Flower- Borage (Borago officinalis)
• Star of the Earth – Avens (Geum urbanum)
• Starweed- Chickweed (Stellaria media)
• Starwort- Aster (Callistephus chinensis)
• Strangle Tare- Dodder (Cuscuta glomurata, C. europaea)
• Stepmother- Pansy (Viola tricolor)
• Stinking Nanny/Willie- Ragwort (Senecio vulgaris, S. jacobaea)
• Stinkweed- Garlic (Allium sativum)
• Storm' Hat- Wolf's Bane (Aconitum napellus, Arnica latifolia, Arnica montana)
• Summer's Bride- Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
• Sundrop- Yellow Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)
• Swallow Herb/Swallow Wort- Celandine (Chelidonium majus)
• Swamp Sassafras- Magnolia (Magnolia spp.)
• Sweating Plant- Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)
• Swine’s Snout- Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
  
  

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T

• Tanner’s Bark- Toadflax (Linatia vulgaris)
• Tartar Root- Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
• Tetterwort- Celandine (Chelidonium majus)
• Thoroughwort- Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)
• Thron- Hawthorn (Crataegus oxacantha)
• Thor's Hat- Wolf's Bane (Aconitum napellus, Arnica latifolia, Arnica montana)
• Thor's Helper- Rowan (Sorbus acuparia)
• Thousand Weed- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Throat's Herb/Throatwort- Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa, S. marilandica)
• Thunder Plant- Houseleek (Sempervivum tectorum)
• Toad- Toadflax (Linatia vulgaris)
• Toe of Frog- Bulbous Buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus)
• Tongue of Dog- Hound’s Tongue (Cynoglossum officinale)
• Tongue Grass- Chickweed (Stellaria media)
• Torches- Mullein (Verbascum thapus)
• Tree of Death- Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
• Tree of Doom- Elder (Sambucus canadensis)
• Tree of Chastity- Hawthorn (Crataegus oxacantha)
• Tree of Evil- Walnut (Juglans regia)
• True Love- Trillium (Trillium spp.)
• Trumpet Flower- Be-Still (Thevetia peruviana, t. nereifolia)

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U

• Unicorn’s horn/root- Ague Root (Aletris farinosa)
• Urine- Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
• Unshoe-Horse- Moonwort (Botrychium spp.)

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V

• Vapor- Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis)

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W

• War Poison- Yellow Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)
• Warty Foot- Bulbous Buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus)
• Wax Dolls- Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis)
• Weasel- Rue (Ruta graveolens)
• Winterweed- Chickweed (Stellaris media)
• White Man’s Foot- Plantain (Plantago spp.)
• Wishing Thorn- Sloe (Prunus spinosa)
• Witchbane/Witchwood- Rowan (Sorbus acuparia)
• Witch’s Asprin- Willow (Salix alba)
• Witch's Bells- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Witch's Berries- Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
• Witch's Broom- Mistletoe (Viscum album, Phoradendron leucarpum, P. flavescens)
• Witch's Burr- Liguidamber (Liquidambar spp.)
• Witch's Hair-Dodder (Cuscuta glomurata, C. europaea)
• Witch's Herb- Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
• Witch's Mannildn- Mandrake (Atropa mandragora, Mandragora officinale)
• Witch's Thimble- Datura (Datura stramonium, D. metel, D. spp.) or Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
• Wolf Claw- Club Moss (Lycopodium calvatum)
• Wolf's Hat- Wolf's Bane (Aconitum napellus, Arnica latifolia, Arnica montana)
• Wolf’s Milk- Euphorbia (Euphorbia spp.)
• Wood of the Cross- Mistletoe (Viscum album, Phoradendron leucarpum, P. flavescens)
• Wool of Bat- Holly (Ilex aquifolium, I. opaca) or moss
• Worm Fern- Male Fern (Dryopterisfelix-mas)
• Wound Weed/Wort- Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)

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X

None at this time.

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Y

None at this time.

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Z

None at this time.

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***

And there you have it! An A to Z guide of the folk names of different herbs and their modern counterpart. While not 100% comprehensive, this is an excellent starting point when translating or deciphering old grimoires and herbal remedies. Whether it was done to keep recipes a secret or not, our ancestors were certainly creative in their naming system!

Again, if you didn't see something on this list, please let me know in the comments below so I can do some research and get it added. Until next time!

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Lemon Balm

Gender: Feminine
Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Powers: Comfort, Happiness, Healing, Stress Relief, Success

Other Names: Balm, Balme, Melissa

Magical Uses and History: Lemon balm, also known as Melissa, derives its name from the Latin melissa meaning bee. According to Greek mythology, Melissa was a nymph who could take the form of a bee and who discovered honey. She and the other nymphs fed honey to infant Zeus, helping him gain his strength and power. Lemon balm is a favorite among bees, who rely heavily on it for food. It was often planted to attract bees and pollinators to an area, especially among apiarists or beekeepers. As such, Gerard suggests that apiarists could rub the leaves of lemon balm on the inside of empty hives to attract new swarms to inhabit them and prevent existing hives from swarming. According to Pliny the Elder, lemon balm can also be planted near bee hives to encourage bees to return to their hives. As such, lemon balm is deeply associated with bees and honey, therefore tying this plant to joy and happiness. It can therefore be used in spells to bring joy and happiness as well as any spells or rituals to attract bees or success. It is usually enjoyed as a tea, but can also be burned as an incense, added to spell bags, used in bath teas, hung around the home, or even used as an essential oil in a diffuser for the aforementioned purposes. If you wish to attract pollinators and raise bees yourself, plant lemon balm in your garden to ensure your success.

Other than its association with bees, lemon balm has also historically been used in medicine to treat a variety of ailments, especially melancholy, anxiety, and acute stress but also toothaches, gout, and bites. The name officinalis means "used in medicine" and lemon balm certainly has been. The Greeks and Romans were among the first to use lemon balm with records of its use as far back as 300 BC. It was often added to wine to treat fevers and toothaches or crushed to make a poultice to staunch bleeding. In the ninth century, Charlemagne decreed lemon balm to be included in all monastery and apothecary gardens because of its healing properties and its potential to increase one's life span. By the 1500s, English herbalists such as Gerard and Culpeper wrote about the healing effects of lemon balm, calling for it to be added to wine to ward against the bites of "venomous beasts," drive away depression, and even prevent fainting. Lemon balm was so well-known for its healing abilities that it was even included in literature and poetry, from Virgil's Georgics to Homer's Odyssey to Shakespeare's Merry Wives of Windsor. Lemon balm continues to be praised for its healing abilities and is a staple among herbalists. As such, lemon balm can be used in spells and rituals for health, wellness, and longevity. Add to spell bags for health, place under the pillow or bed of a sick person to bring swift healing, serve as a magic tea to promote wellness, or add to a ritual bath to destress and soothe tension. It can also be added to spells you want to be longer lasting due to its association with longevity and immortality.

Because of its comforting nature and antidepressive qualities, lemon balm can also be used to dispel grief and release that which no longer serves you, especially when burned as incense or added to a ritual bath. Lemon balm oil can also be used to anoint candles for such purposes.

Lemon Balm can be used in a number of spells including:

   Healing Spells

   Happiness Spells

   Dispelling Negativity

   Bee Attraction

   Success Magic

Medicinal Uses: There is some debate on whether or not lemon balm should be used fresh or dried. While the volatile oils in lemon balm are strong in fresh leaves, dried leaves have been shown to be just as effective at treating diseases and disorders. Lemon balm is a carminative herb that is able to soothe digestive spasms and flatulence. It's also antidepressive and commonly used to treat anxiety, depression, tension, and stress. Because it is also a mild sedative, it can be used to treat ADHD. Lemon balm can also be used to lower blood pressure due to its tonic effect on the heart and circulatory system. Due to its antiviral properties specific to shingles and herpes, lemon balm can be used topically and internally to treat both viral outbreaks. Lemon balm combines well with other calming herbs such as lavender, chamomile, and meadowsweet.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion, combine 1 cup of boiling water with 2-3 teaspoons of dried leaves or four to six fresh leaves. Allow the mixture to infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink morning and evening or as needed. Take 10-15 drops up to three times a day as a tincture. To create a salve, combine 1 cup fresh or dried lemon balm with 1/4 cup olive oil (or another carrier oil) over low heat. Lightly simmer for 2 hours before straining and stirring in 1/4 beeswax pellets or coconut oil. Apply topically as needed. Lemon balm can also be used as a poultice by mashing fresh leaves with a small amount of water to form a paste and applying directly to sores, cuts, abrasions, bruises, bee stings, bites, cold sores, etc.

Want to print a copy of this for your Book of Shadows? Click below for your free copy!

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A Complete Guide to Mímir, God of Wisdom and Knowledge

Like many religions, Norse deities were a reflection of the culture in which they were born and were viewed as vital forces that held together and sustained order in the cosmos. While their power was immense it was by no means total with each god and goddess having a distinct personality and role. Each god had strengths and weaknesses, so no one god was superior to others. This had a direct impact on how humans historically interacted with them both as metaphorical and literal beings. The Norse viewed their gods as anthropomorphic, meaning they viewed them as human-like but with more "power," who were as much a part of our physical world as you and me. The gods routinely interacted with humankind, from reproducing with humans thus producing royal families to the exchanging goods and services through ritual sacrifice. Furthermore, the gods were viewed as divinity in nature. It's not just that Thor is the god of thunder, but he is also the divine nature of thunder. This does not apply to all of nature, however, with many aspects not having a divine counterpart. Needless to say, the gods were an integral part of society and influenced the day-to-day lives of the Nordic people.

I recently posted an A to Z List of Norse Gods and Goddesses in which I very briefly introduced major Norse deities. Like all lists, it is a snapshot of each god and goddess with no context. While such lists are great in a pinch, they tell you nothing of substance about the gods, how to work with them effectively, or their importance in the cosmos. In this series, I will be exploring these deities in much more detail by examining and analyzing their portrayal in the Eddas. Each "profile" will include my analysis of the Eddas and Sagas, their cultural significance, correspondences, how to work with them, offerings, invocations, and prayer suggestions. I have also included printable "cheat sheets" on each deity which summarize all the important details for your Book of Shadows or Grimoire, starting with Mímir (pronounced Mee-mir).

It may seem odd starting this series with Mímir and not a more famous god, but I can assure you it is with purpose. With students returning to the classroom over the next several weeks, I felt it very fitting to discuss the god of knowledge and wisdom.

Mímir's Portrayal in the Eddas & Sagas

Mímir, while not as prominent as other gods like Odin, is mentioned multiple times in the Skaldic verses, eddic poems, and sagas.

Starting with Nafnaþulur, which is part of the Prose Edda (believed to have been written before the Poetic Edda), Snorri lists the jötnar or giants, with Mímir appearing third.

"Giants I
I will make a listing of the giants; Ymir, Gangr and Mímir, Iði and Þjazi, Hrungnir, Hrímnir, Hrauðnir, Grímnir, Hveðrungr, Hafli, Hripstoðr, Gymir."

This mention solidifies Mímir as a jötun, even though he later becomes part of the Æsir. In general, the jötnar were larger than humans and the Æsir, having a voracious appetite, whether it be for food, bloodshed, or knowledge. Like the Æsir, the jötnar also had magical powers, of which Mímir's is near-omniscient knowledge, an idea reinforced by multiple passages throughout the Eddas and sagas.

In Gylfaginning or The Doom of the Gods, Snorri makes a reference to Völuspá 28 in his commentary in which he states:

"But under the root that runs towards the frost-giants is Mímir's Well, in which wisdom and understanding are hidden, and he whose well it is is called Mímir. He is full of knowledge, because he drinks from the well out of the horn Gjallarhorn. All-Father came there and asked to have a drink from the well, but he did not get it until he had given his eye as a pledge. So it says in the Völuspá:

I know where Othin's | eye is hidden,

Deep in the wide-famed | well of Mimir;

Mead from the pledge | of Othin each morn

Does Mimir drink: | would you know yet more?"

From these two passages, we see that 1) Mímir is referred to as a "frost-giant," and 2) Mímir has a Well of Knowledge (Mímisbrunnr) beneath Yggdrasil's three roots, specifically the one reaching into Jotunheim. This again suggests that Mímir is a jötun, specifically from Jotunheim. These passages also suggest that Mímir himself is the keeper of knowledge and wisdom and that he drinks from the Mímisbrunnr every morning. It is implied that by drinking from the well daily, Mímir is able to maintain his vast knowledge, thus reinforcing his role as a source of wisdom. Furthermore, Mímir's knowledge is not given freely. In order to obtain the knowledge of his impending doom, Odin has to sacrifice his eye, suggesting that all knowledge comes at a price.

Despite the evidence that Mímir is jötun by birth, he is also believed to be Æsir by affiliation, like several other Æsir gods. This is supported in the Ynglinga saga which describes the Æsir-Vanir war. In chapter 4, we find a description of the exchange of hostages that concludes the first war. The Æsir agree to send two of their own, Hœnir and Mímir, in exchange for Njord and his children. Hœnir, who is the quintessential warrior but not very bright, quickly becomes the leader of the Vanir. When the Vanir realize Hœnir is unable to make decisions without Mímir, they behead Mímir and send his severed head back to Odin.

"Then they took Mímir and beheaded him and sent the head to the Æsir. Odin took the head and smeared it with herbs so that it should not rot, and chanted spells over it and put such power into it that it spoke with him and told him many hidden matters... Odin had Mímir's head with him, and it told him many tidings from the Otherworld."

Here we see Mímir is considered one of the Æsir, even though he is jötun by birth. It would have been odd and uncouth to send someone that was not considered Æsir. As for the beheading of Mímir, some have interpreted it as the Vanir's inability to make use of Mímir's knowledge. Only after his head is severed and enchanted by Odin is the knowledge now "free" to be made use of. 

Odin consistently consults with Mímir over important matters including his attempt to forestall Ragnarok as seen in Völuspá 46 and Sigrdrífumál 14:

"Loud blows Heimdallr,

his horn is aloft;

Odin speaks

with Mímr's head"

 (Völuspá 46)

"He stood on the cliff

with Brimir's blade,

he had a helm on his head;

then Mímr's head

spoke a first wise word

and talked of true lore." 

(Sigrdrífumál 14) 

These passages further reinforce Mímir's ties to knowledge and wisdom and his importance to Odin as an adviser. Etomoglically speaking, Mímir comes from the Proto-Indo-European verb (s)mer meaning "to think, recall, reflect, and worry over" as well as the Latin memor meaning "memory or mindful." However, in some versions, these passages refer to Mímir as Mímr or even Mim, which has caused some confusion. How can Mímir be both the guardian of Mímisbrunnr and beheaded counselor to Odin? Are they two separate beings? 

I am inclined to believe they are one and the same. How exactly Mímir came to live among the Æsir is not mentioned in any text, but it cannot be ruled out considering Odin's unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Furthermore, severed heads being connected with wells of knowledge is prominent across many European cultures, most notably Bran in the Mabinongion. Snorri makes a note in Gylfaginning saying, "Odin rides to Mímir's Well and takes counsel from Mímir." suggesting that Mímir might not actually be carried around as a head by Odin, but instead kept in the well where Odin consults with him. Either way, none of this changes Mímir's function: source and guardian of wisdom.

Apart from the aforementioned references to Mímir, there are a number of poetic metaphors known as kennings referencing him. In Skáldskaparmál, Odin is described as a "Friend of Mímir," emphasizing Odin's reliance on Mímir's counsel. Also in Skáldskaparmál we find "mischief-Mímir" at least 3 times, which is a well-known kenning for jötun, further suggesting Mímir is jötnar. 

In Vafþrúðnismál 45 Yggdrasil is called "Hoddmimir's wood" meaning Mímir's Tree, a reference to Mímir using his well to water Yggdrasil. Sigrdrífumál 13 may also reference Mímir.

"from the liquid

which oozed out of Heithdraupnir's skull

and out of Hoddrofnir horn."

Hoddrofnir, meaning "Treasure-Opener" resembles Hoddmimir from Vafþrúðnismál 45, suggesting the "treasure" is hidden knowledge that Mímir can bestow on those worthy. "Heithdraupnir's skull" is often interpreted as Mímir's skull bobbing in the well of knowledge, the liquid oozing from the skull being the mead referenced in Völuspá 28. It oozing from the skull further implies that the liquid is knowledge.

Needless to say, these references all suggest that Mímir is

1. jötun by birth, but Æsir by association
2. friend and respected counselor of Odin
3. keeper and source of knowledge and wisdom
4. the divine representation of wisdom

Mímir's Cultural Significance

Mímir's representation in the Eddas and sagas is a direct reflection of Norse culture. From the passages that mention Mímir, we can garner two things: 1) the pursuit of knowledge was extremely important and 2) seeking knowledge often requires great sacrifice. The latter statement is supported by Odin giving up an eye as well as the lengths Odin went to restore life to Mímir's head. Odin's continued interactions with Mímir demonstrate the Norse's belief that knowledge requires dedication and humility. Odin is often viewed as a god of wisdom as well, so the fact that he is seeking counsel from another shows he was willing to admit he did not know everything. The importance of knowledge in Norse society is further supported in the Hávamál, where wealth is described as "brief...as the winking of an eye, most faithless ever of friends" (Hávamál 77) while wisdom "never waxes" (Hávamál 78).

Furthermore, Mímir's Well is often viewed as a metaphor for inaccessible or secret knowledge. If the references in Sigrdrífumál 13 do in fact refer to Mímir, then we can assume that the Norse viewed knowledge as treasure, something of great value and worth. While there is no archaeological evidence to support that Mímir's Well existed in the real world, there is evidence that wells and springs held significant value to the Norse as both a source of life and wisdom. Hot spring baths constructed by the Norse still exist today and a number of sacred and sacrificial wells and springs are well noted across Scandinavia, such as Odin's Well in Old Uppsala and Lake Tissø (Tyr's Lake) in Zealand, which are accompanied by ritual and celebration halls.

Mímir's Correspondences

It should be noted that general correspondences are not mentioned in any Nordic text. Instead, these are a best guess based on experiences from both myself and others. In fact, most of these are of modern invention, pulling inspiration from Wicca. As with all correspondence lists, you can add and subtract based on your experiences.

Mímir is known as the Æsir god of wisdom, friendship, and good counsel. As such, anything related to wisdom, knowledge, etc can correspond with him.

• Element: Air
• Cardinal Direction: West or East (depending on where you place Air)
• Planet: Jupiter
• Colors: yellow, blue, white
• Animals: mockingbird
• Plants: ash, sage, rosemary
• Crystals: peridot, topaz, citrine, howlite
• Symbols: well, fountains, pool of water
  
  

How to Work with & Honor Mímir

As with any deity, how you work with and honor Mímir is entirely up to you. However, Mímir, unlike others, is particularly demanding. He does not give up wisdom and knowledge easily, and you will have to work to gain insight from him, sometimes through great sacrifice. You can read more about this in "Suggested Offerings for Mímir." Below is a list of ways you can potentially work with and honor Mímir.

1. Invoke Mímir when studying or learning something new.
2. Engage in shadow work, asking Mímir to shed light on hidden aspects.
3. Create a small offering bowl with water. Meditate on your desire for wisdom and knowledge, asking Mimir to guide you to new insights and understanding.
4. Create an altar dedicated to Mímir.
5. Donate books to your local library.
6. Continue learning new things.
7. Write prayers, poems, and stories dedicated to Mímir.
8. Help clean up local rivers and streams.

Suggested Offerings for Mímir

Unlike correspondences, there is one mention of an offering made to Mímir, Odin's eye. While I am certainly not suggesting you gouge out your own eye in the pursuit of knowledge, Odin's sacrifice does suggest that Mímir wants something of value from us before he is willing to help. What that something is will be between you and Mímir, but there are some general offerings he seems to like. These offerings include secrets and stories, mead or dark beer, and blood.  He may also ask you to perform a task that may seem easy at first but will demand your time and effort. Other offerings include honey, water, and bread. Whatever it is you give up, it needs to be something of value to you, otherwise it is not a true sacrifice.

Invoking Mímir

One of the best ways to begin writing an invocation or prayer to any deity is to find their epithets, the names and words used to describe a deity. In the Eddas and Sagas, you will find multiple nicknames and adjectives to describe major figures. Mímir is referred to as Mím, Míme, Mímr, Hoddmímir (referring to Mímir Wood aka Yggdrasil), Móðsognir (mead-drinker), Hoddrofnir (treasure), Gauta spjalli (counselor of Odin), and Fimbulþulr (the great teacher). Other descriptors not directly stated in the Eddas but are still useful include the rememberer, keeper of wisdom, well guardian, Odin's friend, wise one, and thinker.

When writing your own invocations and prayers, it's always best to speak from the heart. If you are not sure where to start, I have included my own invocation below.

Mímir, keeper of the well of knowledge,

Friend and counselor to Odin, 

Móðsognir and rememberer,

Thinker and Hoddrofnir,

The great teacher of our ancestors.

I call upon thee for assistance.

Bless me with your wisdom,

For I am not afraid to pay the price.

Prayers to Mímir

Much like writing an invocation, prayers to Mímir should include his epithets and come from the heart. While I have included an example of a prayer below, it's always best to write your own. 

Hail Mímir

Guardian of the well of knowledge

Friend and counselor to Odin

You who reside in Jotunheim

Thinker, knowledge keeper, and teacher

You who drinks from Mímisbrunnr

Who was resurrected by Odin

Wise beyond measure

I honor you and bless you

Hail Mímir

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Whew! That was a lot to get through, but hopefully, you stuck with me! To truly understand any divine being, you have to understand the culture from which they arose. By looking at the Eddas and Sagas, we see that Mímir is not just the god of wisdom, but also a counselor, friend, and guardian of knowledge. He is a thinker and rememberer, a teacher and mead-drinker. He also demands sacrifice, telling us that knowledge requires hard work and humility. Below you will find a printable, cheat-sheet that includes a summary of all important information that you can incorporate into your Book of Shadows or Grimoire.

Click the image below to download your free cheat sheet for your Book of Shadows or Grimoire.

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