Magickal Herbs: Mandrake and Rosemary

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What is Mandrake?

Scientific and medicinal info

The root of the mandrake plant grows in a branching manner and quite often resembles the arms and legs of a human being. This oddity is what led mandrake to be associated with many magickal properties. The root of the mandrake is toxic and should not be used internally for any reason. It grows wild in Southern Europe and can be grown in warm North American climates. The round fruit of the mandrake plant smells like apple, hence the common name of mayapple.


Also Known As ....

Other names

Latin: Mandragora officinale or Atropa mandragora
Common names: Gallows, Devil's apples, mayapples, mandragona, mannikin, herb of Circe.
A similar species called American Mandrake (Podophyllum peltatum) is a different plant altogether.


Magickal Properties

Using mandrake in rituals

The root of the mandrake plant is the part used in magick. Whole pieces of the root are carried for protection. Pieces of root can be kept in the house for protection (over the mantle, if you have one). Mandrake can also be used in spells for love, money or health.

Carrying the dried root is fine to use its protective energies, but to use mandrake in other spellwork requires soaking. You should leave the root in spring water for 3 days to 'wake it'.

Mandrake is reputed to be an excellent aphrodesiac, but since it is poisonous, please don't use internally! The most well-known myth about mandrake is that it screams when uprooted, and that whoever hears this shriek will either drop dead or go mad. This has been popularized by the second Harry Potter movie, where mandrake is also used to cure petrification spells. In times before modern medicine, pieces of mandrake root were given to patients to chew before surgery, as a form of anaesthetic.


More Correspondences

Other properties

Planet: Mercury, Saturn
Element: Fire
Deity: Hecate

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What is Rosemary?

Scientific and medicinal info

Rosemary is an aromatic perennial shrub, with thin leaves that look somewhat like spruce needles. It thrives easily in the garden, with well-drained soil and lots of sun. The leaves often have a silver hue to them. It's also considered to be a spice, and is used in cooking and tea blends. It goes great with pork or lamb!


Also Known As....

Other names

Latin: Rosemarinus officinalis
Common Names: Compass Weed, Elf Leaf, Sea Dew

Magickal Properties


Using rosemary in rituals

Rosemary is another one of those wonderful herbal workhorses that can be used in a variety of rituals. It's a good herb to have on hand. Scott Cunningham considers rosemary to be a suitable substitute for ANY herb used in magick. Rosemary's strongest energy is protective, and can be used in a number of ways to eliminate negative energy and to protect the user. As an incense, rosemary is great for cleansing an area before casting circle. You can also use rosemary in love magick, or for rituals to improve your memory. Dried rosemary in a dream pillow will keep away nightmares and bring pleasant dreams.


More Correspondences:

Other properties

Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Associated Deities: Aphrodite

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