Commonly Used Herbs in Medieval Europe

The sixteen most commonly herbs used in medieval Europe are as follows. 

• Aloe vera helped prevent accidents in the home, especially kitchen accidents where one might get burned, and kept negativity and evil influence out of the house. Africans still hang Aloe Vera over doorways to drive away negative spirits and draw good luck to the inhabitants.

 

• Anise was known to ward off bad dreams and maintain youth. 

 

• Chamomile was used in prosperity spells to bring in more wealth and abundance.

 

• Colt's Foot could bring back a lost lover. 

 

• Feverfew helped to prevent general accidents while traveling, especially accidents caused by being hexed. During The Black Death, it was sprinkled outside around the house to prevent the disease from entering. Feverfew was also used to draw away pain, such as headaches, when used as tea. This practice is still used today.

 

• Lavender was used in spells for purification and was thrown into Midsummer fires as a sacrifice to the gods. It also repelled insects, particularly fleas.

 

• Jasmine was used in magical spell work and as a witch's scented bath and body oil.

 

• Periwinkle, known as The Sorcerer's Eye, was placed in pockets for protection against evil spirits and black spells. 

 

• Musk Mallow was esteemed by the ancient Greek physicians Pliny and Dioscorides. Musk Mallow flowers were used in Beltaine rituals to attract love.

 

• Sage was used in ancient Europe and the Middle East for purification, protection, medicine, and banishing. It was burned in temples during religious rights and was a powerful herb to use in exorcism.

 

• Saint John's Wort was hung around children's necks to protect them against illness for one year and was used to drive away bad spirits. Saint John's Wort was also used in the 17th century to exorcise ghosts and demons and expose witches. However, witches used the herb for protection and driving away negative forces.

 

• Vervain was associated with staunching the blood of Christ on the cross and was often referred to as the Herb of the Cross. It was said to protect against evil spells and demons. It was also said to protect against witches and bewitchment. Witches used it in purification baths. Ordinary people wore vervain around their necks for protection and touched it often to maintain good health.

 

• Mint was used in ancient Egypt to heal various common ailments and in rituals and spells. Catnip, a member of the mint family, was also used in medieval times to calm the mind and body. 

 

• Rosemary (sometimes called Rosemarie) kept evil spirits at bay and was used by witches, ancient Greeks, Romans, and Christians. Sage brought about romantic love, protection, and blessings. It also warded off nightmares when placed under an individual's pillow. 

 

• Rose Petals have been used in many areas of the world for healing. In medieval times it was a sacred symbol of all that was good. Rose petals were used in magic spells to promote good luck, attraction, and romance. You'll find the rose is often symbolized in ancient architecture.

 

• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) was used in rituals and spells to provide courage and honor the dead. Thyme was used to disinfect temples and homes in ancient Greece and settle domestic disputes. Thyme was also a favorite of the faerie folk. And, if thyme were left under a full moon, the fairies would return a lost or stolen item.

 

While most modern witches no longer use dangerous psychotropics, most of these other herbs are still used in rituals, spells, and recipes to make sachets, poppets, infusions, baths, oils, and ointments for a variety of intents and purposes.

 

Also, see HSV Remedy Recipes for herbal recipes that ease stress and herpes-related symptoms.